Hi - I just joined, but was following the discussion. I am the same age and size as DMB (except have bigger feet ), and had the same pedal issues. I bought (about 1-1/2 yrs ago) a Giant WSD bike in a small frame size - 44 cm, and while I've FINALLY gotten used to it (I call it my clown bike - it's pink and silver) - and I've finally gotten used to the clipless pedals (after much crashing and burning) I am still a hesitant rider - I ride in NYC and usually over the George Washington Bridge which has a narrow winding walkway leading up to the Bridge with a lot of Lance clones zooming up and down, which leaves me having a major panic attack each and every time I ride. I leave one foot clipped out, but can't start on a hill and have to get off and walk. The point of this long-winded essay is . . . . ride whatever way makes you comfortable. I've long since learned to ignore the Lance clones riding up my back wheel and go as slowly as I need to.