I am a recent convert (3 weeks ago), and I'm 100% sold on clipless. Much better power transfer through the entire pedal stroke, and improved control across semi-technical XC like exposed rocks, roots and scree. Also, to my surprise, much more confidence on fast descents.

The best thing about clipless, though, is the overall 'one-with-the-bike' feeling that comes from your foot being in a stiff shoe attached to the pedal. Just better overall control, and much more confidence.

To my surprise, there really was no learning curve for me after 10+ years of clips and straps. I've been a bit more cautious, I think, going through sections of trail where I *might* need to put a foot down, such as going through the apex of a switchback. So I'm sure that keeps me from potentially falling over. However, there was none of that falling-down-at-stoplights and such that others have reported.

One more thing: I started with Shimano's 'multi release' cleat, and after one ride hade to swap them out for the original 'single release'. The multi release cleats made it way too easy for my foot to come off the pedal when I *did not* want it to.