Quote Originally Posted by ny biker View Post
As for the people who are making fun of you, who cares what they think? You've managed to rack up a few thousand miles so far, no thanks to them. Just enjoy the ride, that's what matters.
+1!!!!

As for clipping in and out, I have always clipped in with my left foot first. I raise it fairly high, like NY recommends (2 o'clock position) to get a strong downstroke to pull myself up onto the saddle.

Clipping out, I have always clipped out with my right foot first, then slightly leaned the bike that way to put my right foot down first. I figure that way, I'm not leaning the bike into traffic (assuming riding in a country where cars drive on the right). Like others have said, it's good to be able to clip out either side first in case of emergency, but I would first concentrate on picking one side and getting comfortable with that to keep things simpler and less overwhelming/scary.

When you are approaching a stop or anything you find a bit "hairy", you can clip out your chosen foot well in advance so you don't feel "stuck" in the pedals. That might help a bit with the fear. I'll unclip my right foot anytime I think there is a chance I might have to put a foot down. You can always clip back in without stopping if it turns out you don't need to.

It's really not nearly as complicated as it sounds, and once you "get it", muscle memory will kick in, and the starting and stopping motions will all become second nature. Practice is the best thing you can do! Starting out in very low-stress situations (perhaps on a bike path with almost no traffic) will help you get the hang of it without as many nerves kicking in.

Good luck!