thanks for the replies guys, at least i guess i'm not alone here. i suppose after some more riding time with them i'll get used to it.
being new to road biking makes this a little tougher for me i guess. i feel almost invincible on my SS riding on city streets with platform pedals, but i honestly feel like i'm trapped in a cage, waiting to get beat on with clipless pedals. that feeling should subside as i get more comfortable though (hoping)