anna1968

I am new to the road biking. I just bought a Specialized Allez road bike. My question is this: Since I am used to riding a Giant Hyrid bike with regular platform pedals and have never used clipless pedals before, would I be OK to buy a pedal with 2 sides (1 being the clipless side and the other being a regular platform pedal. Have you had any experience with these pedals? Any advice is appreciated. Thanks.

Sasquatchula

I've never owned a pair, but a friend of mine swears they're the greatest thing ever. In a pinch, I've used the removable platforms that come with some clipless. (I know, you shouldn't use them alot.) From a riding point of view, you'd be just fine. They aren't to heavy, and the platform adds a little support you don't get with strictly clipless, which might help you as a new rider for feeling"secure".

You'd want to keep in mind how you use your bike overall though. My roadie is my roadie. I dont use it to pedal around town and run errands. That's what my other bike is for. I know how hard it is to justify a second bike just after laying out for your first, but that's what I did. A cheap beater that can take a licking, and if it gets stolen, no big loss.

phinney

I have lots of experience with those. They'll work fine on your road bike. They'll still be a bit more awkward than either platforms or mtb clipless because you have to orient them for what kind of shoe you have on.

They make the most sense in the case where you don't always have your bike shoes on when you use your bike. They were great on camping trips because the bike is so handy to zip around a campground on. Also great for a quick run to the store, park, or gym - anywhere you don't want to be stuck in your biking shoes.

If you're always going to have your biking shoes then don't hesitate to go with pure clipless. It will only take one or two rides to get used to them. Practice in a parking lot starting and stopping a dozen times and you'll be all set.

DieselDan

I started using clipless pedals on my road bike with double-sided MTB clipless pedals. Now I have switched to single sided Look pedals, and I haven't noticed too much of a change except for cleat release was longer. (I had to move my foot more to release). Many riders do and have dome this. Speedplay, Crnak Brothers, and M2 make double sided road pedals as well.

twahl

I ride them and like them. Allows me to hop on and go for a run to the store without changing shoes.

UmneyDurak

I think he is talking about differnt thing. One side having a lock for clipless pedals, and another having just a regular platform like on "regular" bikes.