new clipless pedals - frustrated (speedplay zero)

[lo123]

SO...
Went back to LBS. They had installed the cleats and pedals.
Well, turns out that Bontrager shoes under size 40 or so don't like clipless pedals. Apparently even the manufacturer knows this (so the LBS guy says--though they haven't shared this with everyone in the store), they haven't fixed it. GRRRR.

So, I got a refund on the shoes. I rode tonight with my SPD MTB shoes. MISERABLE. The fit was off because my shoes and pedals were different from the original. I hurt my hips, back and knees. Let's just say it's been a bad week.

I'm currently shopping online for a carbon road shoe that's not a Bontrager. Thinking Sidi or Northwave. Once I get new shoes, I'll try again and see how it goes. Until then, I'm taking a break. Let my body recuperate. Do some swimming or something. Just not riding the bike until I get things straightened out.

[tzvia]

I've had good luck (and lots of comfort) with Shimano WR60 shoes. They work well with my Speedplay X1s, have CF soles and are very comfortable (I wear size 38). Only 'downside' is that the internal pad is your basic flat sheet of material so I bought cycling insoles (Specialized BG footbeds). They are a little wider than my SIDI Zephyrs in the toe box, feel plenty stiff and are well made. I think the upper end Shimano shoes are way underrated and they are a great buy. My new Zephyrs are gathering dust...

[spazzdog]

I love my SIDI Genius shoes... not sure what year/model I have.

I have little feet AND a full size difference btn them. The shoe has great adjustment flexibility. AND they work with speedplay

spazz

[lo123]

I just wanted to say thanks to everyone and give a final update.

I went and bought a pair of Sidi road shoes (on sale!). Not the style I'm really wanting, but they'll do for now. I gave the speedplays another try yesterday, and no matter what I do, it hurts my hips to clip in/out.

So, I borrowed some Keo pedals/cleats from a friend, and voila, it's easy and painless! So I've ordered a pair of Keo pedals of my own.

Lesson learned: it shouldn't be ridiculously painful and/or difficult to get in/out of clipless pedals.

[emily_in_nc]

Good job! Enjoy your new pedals and newfound knowledge!

[tctrek]

This thread is living proof of why there are so many different brands and styles of clipless pedals!! Everyone has something they love and really works for them, but not necessarily for the next person.

I'm so glad you found a way to ride clipless. You will love it once you get used to it. Hope your body heals soon!

[skyler]

ok, now you girls have me a little concerned about purchasing the speedplay pedals. I was going to get rid of my look keo's because I have a hard time clipping back into them after coming stopping at a light. I have to look down and can only clip in on one side. So, I usually ride with my right foot for some time until I can manage to clip in again. My boyfriend uses speedplay and he loves them. He races of course and I just began to get into cycling about 3 weeks ago. I wear sidi's, size 38 and weigh about 110-112. Any recomendations?