Originally posted by Tek
I am having a lot of second thoughts about doing this cyclocross race. Its my first one and its getting to late for me to screw around with pedals and I have already slammed my kneecaps too many time. When I get it right and my pedals are okay, I can get off the bike- not fast (I am not expecting to win here, just finish) but I can do it.

But when I lock in..., =( I get hurt.
Uh-oh. When is the race?

First-race tips here.

Note #3.

How much time do you have to learn the new pedal system?

If the answer is "tomorrow", you'd probably (IMHO) be better off switching back to the SPDs, warts and all. At least they are a known quantity.

What you can do: disengage the cleat on your left foot (if you swing your right leg over on the dismount) right before the run-up/barrier. The nice thing about about a 'cross course is that it is short and predictable (in other words you know exactly when and where you will be getting off the bike on each lap). This way you won't have the problem of having to disengage under load.

Good luck whatever you decide!