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Commuting in Vibram Bikilas?

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Old 05-04-11, 10:33 AM
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Commuting in Vibram Bikilas?

I did it this morning with my feet strapped into the pedals with Pake Space Straps. It was so nice and fast. Every stroke was pure power transfer.

I really recommend this if you are into the Vibram Five Fingers thing. I run in these so cycling in them should make for faster transitions.

BTW the Space Straps are a great alternative to leather. They have not stretched and stay locked where you put them. The plus is they come in cool colors.
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Old 05-04-11, 12:36 PM
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I love running in VFF's but my preference for clipless bike pedals has prevented any experimentation with the bike. In fact I've never even thought of it until I saw your post. I'd like to hear more about some of the changes you've made - platform pedals, I assume?
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Old 05-04-11, 12:57 PM
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I've ridden in Vibram FFs, but that was with platform pedals and no straps. Now I wear sandals. Both yield odd tan lines. Probably best to alternate so the whole foot gets some sun.
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Old 05-04-11, 01:16 PM
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I've used Vibrams and other minimal footear (Vibrams don't really work for me as well, and aren't as good for the office). Now that it is getting warmer, I'll be wearing huarches-style sandals.
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Old 05-04-11, 01:16 PM
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Just pedals and Pake Space Straps with plastic toe clips.

Snug down and away you go. You foot will find the axle center and beware that the little toe may get hooked so be patient. Its nice cause you can vary the purchase of the foot fore and aft and there is a direct power transfer.
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Old 05-04-11, 03:47 PM
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I have some Bikilas too, but i'd be afraid to press down on my platform pedals, since they have pins in them!
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Old 05-05-11, 10:13 AM
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They look like the total opossite of what a cycling shoe should be...
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Old 05-05-11, 12:25 PM
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If your platform is a good size, you don't need a stiff sole. In fact, I definitely prefer flexibility. If your feet are accustomed to it, the pins aren't really a problem; I ride my mountain bike with them. I also ride bikes with MTS platform touring pedals, which have sharp ridges, and it's not really a problem. Maybe if you are doing a hard century, it might come into play, and of course your feet need to be used to those type of shoes or going barefoot in somewhat rough terrain.
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Old 05-05-11, 07:22 PM
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Ride in my VFF classics all the time... no retention... just grippy platforms (BrevM CNC's, MKS Grip Kings, Tioga Super8s)
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