Quote Originally Posted by CorsairMac
Since you bought Shimano SPD shoes, you might want to look into the Shimano dual-sided pedal.........it's perfect for first time clipless users and commuting/MTB'ng. One side of the pedal is a clip, the other side is a platform with a recessed area the cleat fits into but you don't clip in. That way you can always ride the platform side if you're feeling a little "iffy" on the clip side.

I took your advice and then chatted with Cari-unbelievably nice person, with seamingly endless patience. We narrowed it down to Simano M520 SP Pedals or Shimano PD-M424 Pedals.

Any advice?