I had a problem climping in on steep hills with my Shimano pedals. Then I replaced them with Speedplay pedals and now clipping in on hills is easy. No problem. I clip in the left foot bring the foot to the 12 o'clock position and push down. Once the bike starts moving, I just step down wih the right foot. It doesn't matter if I clip in my right foot or not, I can pedal without clipping in anyway.
I just went clipless a couple months ago, opting for some really "cheap" SPD style pedals from Performance (Forte' Pros). What a big mistake that was. They're definitely NOT suitable for beginners. I have fits just getting clipped in on level ground, and on a steep uphill, forget it. I have to head back down the hill til I get the other side clipped in, then pull a quick U'ey.
I'm supposed to meet a guy this Wednesday that's going to sell me a couple used sets of Speedplay X/2's w/cleats and cleat covers, for $75 and my Forte'd Pros in trade. He can have 'em, I'll take the Speedplays
I'm hoping the change will eliminate my clipping in nightmares.
Garfield Cat
10-14-08 02:02 PM
What you don't want to do is to be in the wrong gear in a steep incline...and then have to stop for some unforseen reason. It might be better to stop and shift to a lower gear and start up again.
I love my treks
10-14-08 06:50 PM
I agree with everyone who said don't stop. 2 weekends ago I completed the 100 mile MS ride in NYC into New Jersey. Some the hills were very difficult but I knew that if I stopped, I would fall over. Going clipless makes it easier to not give up and to make it to the top.
