Help.. I can't clip in!

[Pixie91]

I've used clipless pedals before and I use them 5x per week on my spin bike. I just installed new pedals on my old mountain bike. It's almost impossible to clip in, so I can't even imagine how hard it will be to clip out!

I've adjusted the float in the pedal to the loosest setting and even switched my cleats to the oldest pair I have (hoping some wear and tear would make them looser).

It's almost like I can't generate enough force to clip in and down - I'm only 100lbs - but that shouldn't matter. What on earth am I doing wrong? I even tried taking the pedal off and trying to get my shoe into the pedal, and I can't do it! Am I just a total weakling??

Any advice or similar experiences?? Thanks!!!

[Penny4]

Hi Pixie,

I'm new to clipless myself, so I probably can't answer your question. But just wondering what type of pedals and shoes you are using. Maybe that will help others answer you.

[Owlie]

I've used clipless pedals before and I use them 5x per week on my spin bike. I just installed new pedals on my old mountain bike. It's almost impossible to clip in, so I can't even imagine how hard it will be to clip out!

I've adjusted the float in the pedal to the loosest setting and even switched my cleats to the oldest pair I have (hoping some wear and tear would make them looser).

It's almost like I can't generate enough force to clip in and down - I'm only 100lbs - but that shouldn't matter. What on earth am I doing wrong? I even tried taking the pedal off and trying to get my shoe into the pedal, and I can't do it! Am I just a total weakling??

Any advice or similar experiences?? Thanks!!!

Pixie: What kind of pedals are you using?

[lph]

Check 3 times more that you've adjusted them to the loosest setting. :)

Then snap a photo of the setting and the cleats and post here.

[tealtreak]

I've used clipless pedals before and I use them 5x per week on my spin bike. I just installed new pedals on my old mountain bike. It's almost impossible to clip in, so I can't even imagine how hard it will be to clip out!

I've adjusted the float in the pedal to the loosest setting and even switched my cleats to the oldest pair I have (hoping some wear and tear would make them looser).

It's almost like I can't generate enough force to clip in and down - I'm only 100lbs - but that shouldn't matter. What on earth am I doing wrong? I even tried taking the pedal off and trying to get my shoe into the pedal, and I can't do it! Am I just a total weakling??

Any advice or similar experiences?? Thanks!!!
As counter-intuitive as it is- new pedals and new cleats clip/unclip most easily- make sure they are screwed onto the shoe tightly, when they get worn/muddy/chipped it interferes with the clipping/unclipping to a degree.............(it could even be that the interface of new to old is exacerbating the issue................)

[Pixie91]

I'm using a regular shimano mtb pedal (not sure which model) and spd clip. I adjusted the float again.. actually took the screw out and put it back in to make sure I was on the last click.

[Owlie]

I have Shimano's M540 (I think) pedals on my bike. And it took me a while to be able to clip in consistently. Clipping out wasn't a problem. It's just a matter of finding that spot and the correct motion to do it. It's hard to describe without having the bike here, but it's a sort of "stepping" motion.

[SadieKate]

Pixie - do you know for a fact that the pedals are the same that you use in spin class? Have you checked for sole interference? Are you positive the recommended cleats are the same for both pedals?

It depends on the cleat whether old/new makes it easier to clip in/out.

Get your shoes into the pedal somehow, remove your foot and then turn the pedal over and look for interference from the sole. If this is the case, there are spacers avaialable or you can get out the old Dremel tool and do a little remodeling of the lugs.

[Pixie91]

Well... I got out there and just hammered until I made it work! I think it was just all in my head. Confidence is what I was really lacking, so thanks to you all for taking the time to comment... it was my inspiration!!!
:-)

[Seajay]

Well... I got out there and just hammered until I made it work! I think it was just all in my head. Confidence is what I was really lacking, so thanks to you all for taking the time to comment... it was my inspiration!!!
:-)

That sure doesn't look like a Shimano pedal from the picture. Are your cleats shimano? SH51 on the bottom? or Welgo's WP98?
Shim pedals often will be at the tightest setting out of the box.
Also like SadieKate says...we occasionally will run into the sole of the shoe bottoming out against the pedal before the cleat fully engages.
Hope this helps