Originally Posted by
peabodypride
ya, SPDs are mediocre for walking in (cleat wear was alright considering SPD cleats are generic and only cost like $12) but even with ridiculous tension they will pull out while stopping. They were never designed for pedaling backwards with resistance.
I'm not sure how cleat type = difficulty/ease of walking... It's the shoe that makes the difference.
I've used SPDs before I got my Eggbeaters (SLs) - and I've got two pairs of shoes, one are Cannondale Roams which have a recessed cleat area and *rarely* clip-clop and are very comfortable every day shoes... my other shoes are definitely clip-clop tap shoes (Diadora Bike Patrol) but both work just fine.
I've never had an issue with an accidental unclip on my eggbeaters, they're solid and just work - I've used them through all seasons and I'd recommend them hands down... never an issue to get in (4-sided entry FTW) and like other clipless systems, unclipping becomes second nature real quick. SPDs get fouled up fairly easily with snow/mud/crap - if that happens with an eggbeater you just **** your foot on it and it'll just go in.
My vote would be eggbeaters, I'm biased and I've never used Time ATACs.
Edit: yay for a US-language-centric swear filter
