clipless pedal woes

[DMB]

Thanks for the tip Lisa - I agree though, if this at all feels too uncomfortable, or unsafe, I'm not going to do it. I know I sound like an REI rep here (I'm not) but they even told me that if I try the shoes and clips for a while and don't like them I can return everything. Certainly can't beat that.

[DMB]

sorry about that.

[DMB]

Well, you certainly can't say I didn't give it a try. I really did. Didn't even have any dumps or anything. I just don't like the way it feels. I don't feel in control, I feel too confined. Guess I have issues. I do, however, like my toe clips (no cages) though. They hold my foot in the perfect place and getting in and out is a breeze. I don't race or ride with groups so the clipless thing was an experiment just to satisfy my curiousity. I can certainly see where you get a little more power behind your pedal, but I've since learned about efficient pedaling via Joe Friel and that has helped immensely. Thanks again for all your help and advice, I just thought I'd let you all know how this played out.

[redrhodie]

Good for you! It's always best to do what feels right to you. Listen to your instincts, and you won't go wrong.

[slowlane]

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.