So, I bought the Schimano 520's last night. Installed them on my bike. I practiced for about five minutes. Getting in and out was pretty intuitive. Having them set at the lowest setting allowed for easy exits. I commuted for the first time this morning, determined not to embarass myself. Then it happened. I could feel a lot of movement in my left foot, which should have been my first indication that something was wrong. Sure enough, I got the the corner and I couldn't release my foot. Down I went, in slow motion, in front of 20 cars. Turns out my cleat had come loose and therefore when I moved my foot to release, nothing happened. It took a screwdriver to get the cleat out of the pedal mechanism. How embarassing.

Otherwise it was a pretty pleasant ride. I can tell the difference in my pedaling motion, but am not sure yet how vthat difference equates into effectiveness. I'll stay with it for a while and see how it goes. It certainly wasn't the drmatic difference I expected, but hey, I'm still learning.

I do have a question for those who are still reading. I did detect some numbness in my right toes after about 5-7 miles. My left foot felt fine. Anyone know what might cause this? Thanks.