Another dead horse thread re FRSs
 

Foot retention straps seem to be the current rage. While I will not wade neck deep into the fray I would like to say this and invite any comments from other commuters.

I have been ridding cage and strap FRSs for 5 months now. They work, they are easy to get in an out of, and are fairly cheap to get into. I went to the REI used gear sale on a whim yesterday and found a pair of Powergrips for $2. I have been wanting to try them.

Installation was mostly easy considering I installed them without removing the pedal. Since the straps are the Xtralong version I had to punch my own holes for them to work.

That being said this morning's ride was the best as far as feel of my foot to the bike. Very close to being clipped in. I still need to adjust the straps a little, but they work, and most importantly feel more secure and positive than the cages. I think that after I get these dialed and replace the pedals, because I killed the bearings, they will be solid.

My hope is touse these for duathlons with vibram fivefingers. I am not sure how that will play out and I may have to go to Wig or another vendor.

If you can find the Powergrips for cheap they go for it. If not then I recommend a DIY solution, you may like them better than your cages. The plus being that your nylon straps wont fray. Yes you could buy Toshi straps, but at that point you have spent enough for a pair of shoes and clipless pedals.

I have a massive hill to climb to go home so tonights commute will be interesting. FWIW they also feel better sprinting than the cages do.

I've used power grips and like them. I'd be curious to see how they work in combination with your fivefingers and the duathlon.

A couple of years ago I posed a question to a triathlon forum about using power grips for a sprint (short distance) triathlon instead of clipless. I figured not having to change shoes in the transition would more than make up for any speed gains a clipless system would give you for the 15 mile riding distance. Overwhelmingly people disagreed.

I think the reason that people disagree with clipless is the perceived?? power transfer. Vibrams have no sole nor do they have a shank or stiffened midsole. All the power would come from a really tight strap and gear mashing. While not pretty I think on short distances it would be fine. We will see.

I have Power Grips on my commuter. They're pretty awesome. Easy to get in and out of, secure-feeling, and cheap to buy.

Power Grips rule. I have them on all of my bikes.