clipless for scaredy cats?

[KSH]

I did not read all of the responses, so forgive me if I repeat what someone else has said.

My LBS suggested I try mountain bike clipless pedals because they're easier to get out of in contrast with road bikes. Is this true? Is that advisable for performance? Are there any brands/models you ladies recommend?

I started on this type of pedal. The shoes were great, because I could walk in them, but the clips were NOT EASY to get in/out of. Sure, it got better with practice, but they weren't very easy.

Then I switched to Speeplays (looks like a lollipop). They are SO EASY to get in/out of. Downside? You have to get road shoes (not as comfy as mountain biking shoes) and don't expect to walk too far in them... as the cleat on the bottom sticks out.

When I still had my road bike I road with Speed Plays and loved them. The only word of caution was that I had to be pretty careful not to get dirt in them. I carried cleat covers. They were easy to get in and out of and I never had a zero mph crash with them. I'd tried two other kinds but they never worked out well for me.

The cleats can get junked up with dirt and it makes it challenge to clip in/out after that.

Of course, I have only encountered this situation when I am on a bike rally walking through mud/dirt. I fixed that problem by tying plastic bags around my feet at the rest stops... the cleat covers never stayed on for me. Sure, everyone looked at me like I was *nuts* but my cleats didn't get dirty.

Unfortunately, at the Hotter N Hell ride, I forgot to do this! I have attached a picture of me cleaning my cleats!



Good luck in making your decision.