I wear my Specialized Taho's on my road bike and don't mind them at all. I use SPD multiple release mode pedals as well. I also wear a visor on my helmet. I'm super-FRED and I know it, and don't mind it.

I think the Taho is stiff enough - although sometimes I do wonder about getting more power transfer from a keo look pedal. However I'm not that fast, but I'm not really trying to get faster, just enjoying it all.

I think you should do whatever you think is right for you, and if it means trying stuff out, good, if not, also good!