Originally Posted by royalflash
I bought the Shimano SH55 multi-release cleats with some Shimano M646 pedals (double sided binding with the option to use them as platform pedals). I adjusted the tension on the cleat binding so it was at minimum.
I have not had any problems so far trying to clip OUT (which was my main worry) but trying to clip IN is really difficult. Maybe the fact that the M646 pedal have a platform pedal type cage makes it more difficult I don't know.
I switched to clipless about 6wks ago with the double sided Shimano M520 pedals (no platform) and single release cleats - I actually found it much easier than straps, especially the getting in part. I test road a bike last week with the M646 pedals and found it quite a bit harder than the M520s, due to having to flip the pedal to the right side and then having the platform in the way making it harder to feel the right position. Unclipping was about the same. M646 may be marketed to appeal to a beginner to clipless but my limited experience is that they make it much harder.
I also find that I can (and do) ride the M520s with regular shoes fine in dry condition for less that 1mi rides to coffee shop, etc. For longer rides its certainly worth putting on the cycling shoes.
I also use Shimano SD60 SPD sandals and those are perfect for short (and long) rides - meaning for a short trip to the coffee shop I would put on those sandals anyway cycling or not - it takes no time at all with velcro straps and they are comfortable. The point is that if you have clipless, this does not mean that there are not easy options for still using the pedals for casual rides.
Al