Training for first organized ride

[j.nurse63]

Don't laugh, but start riding with "imaginary" cleats. Every single time you're going to stop, think about twisting your ankle to unclip. Every single time you're starting up, think about getting that foot into your imaginary pedal. Once you don't have to think about it anymore, you're ready! It's much better to mess up with imaginary pedals...

WOW....what a great idea! I have been so hesitant to start clipless. I don't want to fall Yesterday, I rode 40 miles and my feet were numb so much of the trip. Hard to enjoy the country while your shaking out your feet.
Tomorrow I will start with "imaginary pedals".
....wondering if it is like "Imaginary friends??"

[cyclinggrlUT]

If you are a member of a gym, go try out their spin bikes. Take your shoes and practice clipping in and out. That's how I did it!

[furryduck]

As a relative newcomer to cycling after a few weeks on bike i was persuaded but s/o to go clipless, got the road shoes and cleats, went on the trainer clip and unclipped fine. Went out on the road first time great in and out of pedals no trouble, but then for some reason had a long series of falling off and then i lost my nerve and confidence so had them removes and cages put back on. It was after this that i was reading lots of helpful posts here and discovered it was quite feasible to have mtb pedals put on, took the bull by the horns and bought some. They were great in and out so easy esp with the multi release ones, i have fallen off a few more times but not because i couldn't get unclipped, in fact i found when you start to fall your foot automatically releases from the multi-release ones. Good luck which ever way you go
Everyone on here is great, i have for a lot of support and help