Toe Clips Needed with FG + Brakes??
 

I will be installing my fixed gear cog on my flip-flop wheel this weekend. I have never rode FG before. Do I need toe straps if I already have brakes?? Or am I under-estimating FG riding??

Yes.

You need some sort of foot retention if you are riding fixed so yes. Can you ride fixed without if you have 2 brakes, yes but it will suck. With pedals always moving the momentum can easily knock your foot off the pedal and that sucks even if you have brakes to stop

No, you don't. But it will be better if you do.

Also, don't forget that you no longer can coast through turns and be mindful of pedal strike if you lean the bike too much.

Yes...or a clipless retention system.
And yes.

Only if you plan to ride it.

No you don't need them, but you may prefer them. I've ridden with and without foot retention including spinning down some serious hills and haven't had problems. Try it for yourself and let your own feelings guide you. I promise you and your bike will not explode.

ftfy

While I suppose it's not strictly required, I would never ride a fixed gear bicycle without some form of foot retention. And I routinely ride with two brakes.

I often pull off my clips in winter to ride in boots, but I don't think I'd be comfortable with it if I was new to fixed gear riding.

That's the most dangerous advice I've seen on here for a while. Mind you, he's probably a cool fixier ride while I'm just some bloke who rides fixed gear.

Expect some initial frustration with the straps. The pedals are going around while you are trying to get your feet in. Consider two-sided clipless - secure and easier to get your foot in and out.

Nah, straps aren't a real problem. The trick is to get your feet in as you move off, while the pedal is still moving slowly, though the bottom of the next stroke works too, just not as well, after that, it gets... interesting.
To be honest, I find clips and straps easier that clips because all you have to do is slide your foot in whereas clips require that accurate location and a push down.
Having said that, neither is a real problem. The real difference is that clips will hold your feet firmly whereas you can't reach down and tighten the straps because the pedal keeps ducking out of the way. I keep my straps as tight as I can while allowing my feet to slide in easily and this is firm enough to hold my foot. Works for me.

/thread

Thanks for the replies. I have a pair of clip pedals that came with my Tourist that were never used. I'll spin those on for now.

I wish they were all like you. Good decision, have fun!

Dunno mate, where's the fun of having people listen to us :roflmao: