I have been riding now for only about 2 months but I am riding longer and longer and I am getting to the point where I think I would really benefit from toe clips or clipless. I already have these shoes: https://www.trekbikes.com/us/en_US/a...-shoe/p/13688/

I think since I already have the shoes that it might be a good idea to go clipless, even though I have never done it before. I have used toe clips in the past, in fact I tried to swap the pedals from my old bike that had toe clips but gave up after bending 3 wrenches lol.

Since I am completely new to this I am not sure which pedals/cleats/etc. to get that will work with my shoes. I am pretty sure I want mountain SPD pedals and I would prefer the ones with platform on one side and clip on the other. Can someone point me to what I need exactly? Suggestions for good but not too expensive stuff would be very welcome. I would prefer to spend under $100 or so if possible.

Also once I have the stuff, anything special that needs done to set them up?

You can get a good set of Shimano LX level SPD pedals (I think the PD-M520 is the LX) from various on line dealers, they run about $25

You'll need a skinny 15mm wrench to get off the old pedals and install new ones, or a pedal wrench. The Park Tool website has a section on getting pedals on/off the crank, they are reversed threaded. Plus some Pedro's or Finish Line line for the pedal threads

Lots of YouTubes on how to install the cleats (that come with the pedals). Generally line them up centered for/aft on the shoe slots, and centered L/. Sometimes the shoes have a removable rubber section that you need to remove

Then just adjust them to the least release tension for a while

Head to a park with a grassy area, ride around a lot on the grass while constantly releasing and engaging the shoes. Practice both sides a lot. Practice emergency stops like the real world. A grassy area so when you fall it doesn't hurt like concrete.

If you want to retain the toe clip/strap arrangement, the Yellow Jersey Bike Shop in Arlington, Wi sells old school cleats with modern bolt patterns for LOOK and SPD. I'm not affiliated with YJBS in any way. Just passing on some info that I know about.
Jon

I have only ever ridden Speedplay, but from what I see by watching other riders is the Speedplays are the easiest to get in and out of, and least likely to have falls in.

Any particular advantage to spending roughly 4 or 5 times as much for Speedplays ?

I'd also argue they are marginally more difficult to engage as you need a bit more finess to engage the cleat. They suck to walk in as well, but are really good choices if your leg biomechanics need a lot of lateral float.

Since the OP was asking about mtb pedals, are we talking about Speedplays Frogs?

I have the shimano a 520 on my caad 8 and like them . They are are lighter than the a 530 but the 530 has one side platform and the 520 does not . Good looking chrome pedals . I could not post the url but nashbar has the 530 for 34 bucks and the 520 for about 44 . Make sure to set the lowest tension and leave it there for the clips . I fell over twice learning to use mine . Pedaling difference is worth it to go spd regardless .

Thanks for the replies! I ended up going with the Shimano PD-M324, that way they are more like what I am use to. Hopefully I like them!