Atomlab Quickstep Platform-Clipless Pedals
 

Been considering a switch to clipless, and would like to retain ability to use pedals with regular shoes for commute, misc. bike use, etc. A fairly common thought I know. Various sites have discussions of this, with on balance some fans of various options (Shimano half-plat, half-clipless; platform clipless like Mallets, Time Z Control, Shimano platform clipless versions), but general sense overall that half-plat/half-clipless are somewhat annoying (getting halves of pedals you want lined up for example) and platform clipless are not really very good as platform pedals (Mallets seem to score best here, but still many strong reservations expressed for its use as a platform pedal with regular shoes).

Without getting into those trade-offs, the Atomlab Quickstep pedals seem like the only pedal designed with a clipless mechanism that retracts when using them as platform pedals. Unfortunately, feedback on those pedals is pretty rare, probably in part due to high price. One comment I read did say that the Quicksteps lack any float at all. The only review on-line appears to be in German, and "guten tag" is about all I've got left from high school Deutch.

Any thoughts from anyone who might own or have tried the Quicksteps? Are they are genuine solution as a platform-clipless hybrid? Is the "no float" comment true, and if so is it of a concern in general and/or to a clipless newbie in particular?

If they are not a good solution, I'm thinking of sticking with platforms, buying clipless and switching out clipless and platform pedals as needed, or maybe buying clipless plus the Winwood Decksters.

Thanks much.

I'm not sure about the float, but the design looks great. Mallets are okay for riding on like a platform pedal, but nothing like a platform. I would email atom lab and ask about the float for those pedals.
you can't go wrong with time z's or mallets. I havent ridden on shimano clipless pedals with a platform, but i've heard good things.
good luck

I have SPD 424s and it feels wierd as hell with reg shoes but it works.

I have some 646's and some 545's. The clamp portion of the pedal turns independently of the outer platform, so when you clip it, it's easier to find the cleat.

When you ride with regular "non-cycling" shoes, you can feel the inner part, but you quickly get used to it.

Where the rubber meats the mallet ....
 

None of the clip/platform combos are intended to be ridden MTB style (with real obstacles etc...) without clips. The platform partially serves for extra contact points on the shoes as well as a way to easily get back on the pedals after a dab.

These pedals may be ridden "casual style" when you are riding your bike on paved surfaces without obstructions. The more agressive tread on the shoe ... the better.

The Atom Lab pedal actually has pins in it that will grab the sole of your shoe. One should be able to ride agressively on them without cleats. The question is ... do you really want to? You spent the money on the pedals and shoes ... why would you want to ride outside of the clip out on the trail???

Perhaps freeriders and downhillers would like the flexibility to ride normal shoes some days and clipless another based on the terrain. But XC riders will ALWAYS want to have their clips.