New to biking!

[bikemad1]

Hello to everyone out there! My name is Margie and I'm a brand new member of the bicycling community! I just bought my first road bike (Trek Pilot 1.0) and I can't wait to put some serious miles on it! :) I've been doing the spin class thing at the gym for about two years and I've also done some mountain biking. I figure it's time for the real thing!! If anyone has any great advice as to figuring out how to clip out of my clipless pedals, please let me know. They're really hard to clip out of. I have the Shimano SPD type pedals.

[Fredwina]

Bikemad1,
have you adjusted the tension? Most spd's have this feature. And remember to clip out before you need to....

[Cassandra_Cain]

Hi Margie and welcome to TE :D

Congratulations on getting into riding and your new bike. Those Trek Pilot bikes have a reputation for being pretty comfortable to ride, which is always nice.

About clipless pedals, although I don't have any now, I have ridden with them before. Basically if you find it difficult to clip in (or out), then it is usually a) your technique, practice it a lot to get better OR b) something isn't right with the clipless pedal or cleat set-up which is making it harder for you.

Did you get the pedals locally? A good start might be to take them (and your bike) to your local bike shop (LBS) and have them looked at. If that goes ok, then just keep practicing.

Good luck :)

[bikemad1]

I didn't know about adjusting the tension on the pedals:o. I was able to adjust it. I can now manage to click out before a catastrophy (another!!!) occurs. Thanks for the advice.

[Bikingmomof3]

Welcome to TE! I just got clipless pedals today, so I cannot offer any advice except check the tension. Again welcome! This is a great group. :)

[Dogmama]

You are wearing a helmet, right?

OK, when you fall over - and it is a rite of passage, you cannot be a real cyclist until you fall over in clipless pedals :D - be sure to keep everything tucked in. Don't stick your hand out to break your fall or you risk a broken wrist or collarbone. Think of how football players land - on their shoulders.

[leighko]

I agree with what Fredwina says, check your tension and clip out before you need to. Remember, it's all about TITS (time in the saddle). The more time in the saddle, the more comfortable you feel on the bike....especially with the clipless pedals. Good luck! I love, love, love, riding my bike