Clipless round 2

[thekarens]

Round Two went much better than round one. So far I'm better when I unclip with the right foot first and for some reason it's easiest when my foot is in the 6 o'clock position, maybe because it's easiest to push down when it's in that spot. I'm still having problems getting back into the clips....well, getting my right foot in. I'm leaving my left foot in.

The other thing is it feels like my right foot is too close to the crank or isn't angled right or something. Not sure what's up with that.

[Owlie]

Round Two went much better than round one. So far I'm better when I unclip with the right foot first and for some reason it's easiest when my foot is in the 6 o'clock position, maybe because it's easiest to push down when it's in that spot. I'm still having problems getting back into the clips....well, getting my right foot in. I'm leaving my left foot in.

The other thing is it feels like my right foot is too close to the crank or isn't angled right or something. Not sure what's up with that.

It does get easier. With mine (different pedal system, though), I had a hard time getting IN. Out, not to much of a problem, provided I remembered which way to lean the bike!

As for the foot thing, it's hopefully just a matter of changing the cleat position. I'd run by the LBS and have them tweak it.

[thekarens]

I'll take it to my guy this weekend. He's pretty helpful even when I don't buy from him.

[OakLeaf]

easiest when my foot is in the 6 o'clock position, maybe because it's easiest to push down when it's in that spot.

Probably also because you can rotate at the hip, not just at the knee.

+1 on repositioning your cleat. Whenever I get new shoes or even replace a cleat, I keep the installation tool accessible for my first few rides to make tweaks. Let the LBS do it for you this time, but watch how they do it so you can make small changes if you want to.

Glad it's starting to come easier.

[thekarens]

I think you're right. My right knee is my dominant knee, but also my "bad" knee so using my hip helps.

[luvmyguys]

Round Two went much better than round one. So far I'm better when I unclip with the right foot first and for some reason it's easiest when my foot is in the 6 o'clock position, maybe because it's easiest to push down when it's in that spot. I'm still having problems getting back into the clips....well, getting my right foot in. I'm leaving my left foot in.

The other thing is it feels like my right foot is too close to the crank or isn't angled right or something. Not sure what's up with that.

One piece of unsolicited advice that I received (which I filed away for when I might need it) was that unclipping at 6 o'clock was the best spot to do so. I don't remember exactly why, but I'm sure it'll come to me at 3 a.m. or some other weird time.

[velogirl]

I actually recommend clipping out at the TOP (12:00) of your pedal stroke. For one, if you're standing on the opposing leg (at 6:00) that will naturally put your other leg at 12:00. Additionally, if you unclip at the top of your pedal stroke, you won't accidentally hit the chainstay when unclipping (which you shouldn't do if you rotate your heel out anyways, but it can be problematic for some riders).

Regarding clipping in, think of where your cleat is placed. It should be under the ball of your foot (or in close proximity). To find the pedal, approach the pedal from your toe and move your foot forward until you feel the cleat make contact with the pedal. Many pedal systems are designed to clip in with a rear approach like this. Once you find the pedal, step onto it (on the downstroke or in the 6:00 position).

Lorri

[thekarens]

12 o'clock is probably the hardest position for me to get out of, but I suppose ideally I should be able to get out whatever the position. There will be times I would imagine that I won't have time to change foot position.

[TigerMom]

Personally, I also unclip better at the 6:00 position too.

Reminders: Don't forget that you can also backpedal your leg to get in the best unclipping position if you are slowing to a stop. Also, don't forget to tilt your bike in the correct direction so that the bike leans against you after you have unclipped. I have fallen over with 1 clipped leg and the other leg standing at the light because I accidentally leaned my bike the wrong way.

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2012 Specialized Amira Elite, upgraded carbon handle bars, Jett saddle 143mm switched to 145mm 2012 Selle Italia Max SLR Gel Flow saddle
2010 Santa Cruz Juliana with R kit and Crampon pedals
2011 Specialized Ariel Sport,suspension post,Serfas Rx Women's Microfiber saddle (sold)