Alright.. this is probably a lame question.. but I'm having a bit of trouble. I've had my bike for two days and sometimes, it takes me forever to get my 2nd foot in.

What's the correct way to do this?

Leave the straps a bit loose, makes it easier to put the foot in. Put one foot in, start off, pedal a couple of times so that the bike is moving, then you can easily reach down and grab the pedal (if need be) to put your foot in. You need to have a bit of speed going to do this, like say walking speed, that way you'll have a few seconds to pull it off.

That, and practice.

Thanks.. I'll try that out. If on a fixed gear, should I still be reaching down to grab the pedal?

Yes. It's always good to be able to adjust the straps, fixed gear or not.

Slick soled shoes help to. Deep treads can hang up easily.

lulz

It takes time... Once you do it a million times you can just slap your foot in there without even thinking about it.

I dont think you can learn to use toe clips on a fixie.
Learn to ride toe clips on "normal" bike.
Learn to ride a fixie, slowly on plain platforms at first, then add your clips.
I find that leather straps hold their shape better than nylon and metal clips can be bent up for more space.
Note that clips come in several sizes so use the right one.
Shoe traction needs to be in the Goldilocks zone, not too grippy, not to slick.

1) Make sure that the toe-clips and straps are adjusted for your style of pedaling and shoe size.

2) Ensure that you have a wrench that will fit your pedals.

3) Take them off, throw them in the trash and get some clipless pedals.

Just kidding!
I rode in straps, a few years back. This is what I did.

Reach down and loosen the strap a bit while you are sitting still, (i.e. at a stop light, etc.)
This will make it easier to get your foot in place, as you take off.
Once you get your foot in, reach down and pull the strap tight.

Of course, this I did this on a single speed, not a fixed gear, so your mileage may vary.

I'm thinking that reaching down with your hand to adjust a pedal or strap on a fixed gear would be a pretty good trick. I don't think that I could do that.

If I had toe clips on my fixed gear I'd use my toe on the back of the pedal to flip it upright and then try to time my foot motion with the pedal motion.

that's the easiest way, fixie or otherwise.

I used the method Retro Grouch mentioned when I briefly had toe straps on my fixed gear. Can't stand the things and changed them to xtr pedals when I had the cash.

IMHO, clips can be counted on to retain ones foot rigidly in the pedal just when you want to get out of them. After decades in clips and a few more in clipless, I'll take clipless every time. One pirate's experience.

It's been 20 years since I ran clips on anything, but I used to just flip the pedal with the ball of my foot and jam it in. Reach down and yank the strap tight. I don't miss that at all.

I find it easier to start with one foot already in the clip, that way it is easier to pedal one-footed with that foot while you try to get the other one in. It is much easier on a freewheel bike, you can coast while you get the other foot in.

put one foot in strap before you ride off.
practice practice practice.

i ride fixed. and i can get my left in with out looking down while pedaling.

I think you'll find a lot of advice in the fixed gear forum.

I disagree with the people who say that you're going to be able to easily adjust your straps while riding on a fixed gear, as least as a beginner. I remember trying to do so on the fly and just bobbing up and down for blocks. Your best bet is probably getting used to them loose (ride brakeS) then trying to get into them tight. Clipless are great for fixed gear, but I personally suggest you master clips first.

Also, tighten up while you support yourself against a wall.