Originally Posted by
crx7
One of the few times I actually hurt myself riding was due to using SPD clipless pedals in mud. I've been riding these pedals for years and still use them for commuting and dry trail riding to this day. However, I do not ride on muddy trails anymore.
I came up on a sharp turn going too fast. As I turned the front wheel dug in and the bike came over on me. I was able to get my left clip out through frantic "reflex", but the left stayed and twisted my ankle severely.
For a controlled slide/fall, "reflex" may kick in, but if you're going down really fast(which happens in snow/mud), you're probably NOT going to get out of your clipless. So, IMHO, don't ride in mud, and if you have to ride in slush, then attach the platform to your SPD's.
As for tension, I keep mine pretty loose.
I've had my front end go out from underneath me in both slide out and highside. The key to not injuring yourself is to just death grip while going down, not unclip intentionally. tuck, roll and release once you hit the ground. most likely case the bike would have already ejected itself from you once you're on the floor rolling.
Trying to catch yourself while still having plenty of momentum means you end up with broken bones and sprained joints. although it can be miserable to get dirty in slush and mud when it's cold outside.
slush is nothing, try hard packed snow or ice, now that is a fist full in keeping upright.