Toe Clips n Straps
 

I have a singlespeed bike I use for fun, work, and for just riding around. I have these big fat almost bmx like pedals on them. I have no problem with these, it's just that I've been trying to seriously work on my spin and my form as a whole. At high cadences I feel like I lose a lot of momentum sometimes because I'm readjusting my feet on the pedals. I don't feel like I'm getting a full distribution throughout my pedaling rotation. My question is, should I put pedals with toe clips and straps? I've read from a couple of you that this helps with a sort of "push and pull", instead of just having your feet just "float" on the up-rotation.

Also, my bottom bracket is pretty low. Will clips become a problem with this? Should I just shelve it in and get clipless? I'm not sure they're for me.

Thanks for your help.

I've alway riden with toe-clips and don't feel the need to go clipless. Never had a problem with a low bb either.

the only problem I see with a low BB is sometimes scraping the clips on the ground when you're walking the bike. I do that whenever I ride my geared bike.

tim

Going from plain old platforms to clips was like night and day for me. I haven't used clipless pedals extensively, so I can't comment on them, but I like clips so much I don't see any need to switch to something else (at the moment). Once you learn to "kick in" efficiently, the low BB shouldn't be a problem. If you do decide to go with clips, make sure you get a good quality pair of metal ones; in my experience, the cheaper, plastic ones aren't even usable. I've never been able to try leather straps, though, because I couldn't find any long enough for my big fat feet, so you'll have to consult someone else for the leather vs. nylon debate.

Clipless rocks.

I use clips without straps. It's easier to get in and out and the clips still hold my feet in place.

clips and straps make a world of difference. I never realized how much physical and mental effort it took to keep my feet on the pedals at any decent cadence. Even the kind without straps will make a diffence. You won't be able to pull up as much, put at least your feet won't slide forward

Thanks for all your help. i'm heading to the lbs today to check out what they have.