Jumping in a Spinning class is a repetitive in and out of the saddle movement at a pace set by the instructor. It helps develop equal leg strength during those transitions. It is a useful exercise, especially for MTB riders who do technical climbs and need to move in and out of the saddle frequently without losing power.

As for pedal systems, I would go with either LOOK or SPD, depending on whether or not you intend to be walking around in your cyclig shoes often. I have LOOK pedals on my Bianchi road bike, but when I am in the Spinning room, I use SPDs, since i am off the bike fairly often, coaching one on one, checking on my students, etc. If you have minor knee problems, Speedplay X series pedals would be a good bet; and if your knees are really messed up, the Speedplay Zero would be a good choice, as would a Bebop. You may want to take your Spinning into consideration as well. Do any of the bikes have dual sided pedals? We have several bikes with 3 way (LOOK, SPD, or cage and strap) pedals, some with M535s (SPD or cage and strap), and some with the standard cage and strap only. Most clubs will not allow you to change the pedals, since you may inadvertantly strip the crankarm threads out.

Good luck with your soon to be new machine!!!

DEMON