Finally Clipless

[Treckie]

Going clipless is the way to go for sure. There's a monster hill I climb each day and when I used toeclips, my heart montior would be screaming at me halfway up the hill. Since switching to clipless, it doesn't beep until I'm on the crest. Also, toe clips helps me stay in my target heart zone much longer. Instead of 50 minutes with toeclips, it's now 60 minutes with clipless. Much more efficient!! I've been fortunate (knock on wood) that I have yet to fall. I find them actually easier to get out of than the toeclips. I kept the toeclips so tight that it took a lot of tugging to get out. My mind just knew I would need time to do that, so I instinctively disengaged early on. Same thing goes with clipless. Just repetition...

[alpinerabbit]

My heart rate goes screaming whatever...

q: After trying boyfriend's spd's I think my looks are set too hard to unclip. I really have to wrench my foot sideways to get out. Do you think that may be a factor in my knee pain that I wrote about someplace else?

the spd experience was on his hybrid which I borrowed for some hill climbing training. Of couse it's got three rings in the front - I think I need that or, on his recommendation, a "compact" two-ring system. Hope yall know what I'm talking about. I think part of my knee pain comes from having to use the gears I have on climbs, which are just not small enough. (I think it is 39/27 max.)

[Trekhawk]

My heart rate goes screaming whatever...
q: After trying boyfriend's spd's I think my looks are set too hard to unclip. I really have to wrench my foot sideways to get out. Do you think that may be a factor in my knee pain that I wrote about someplace else?
the spd experience was on his hybrid which I borrowed for some hill climbing training. Of couse it's got three rings in the front - I think I need that or, on his recommendation, a "compact" two-ring system. Hope yall know what I'm talking about. I think part of my knee pain comes from having to use the gears I have on climbs, which are just not small enough. (I think it is 39/27 max.)

Hey alpinerabbit - Im no doctor but if you are having knee pain you want to be as gentle as possible with your knees. This means no pushing big gears. Not sure about the clipping out problem but Its probably not doing your knees any favours. Lighten off the tension a little on your Looks and spin some easier gears going uphill and your knees will be happier.

[emily_in_nc]

I'd definitely recommend considering a compact double crankset if the 39/27 combo is not low enough for you to spin up hills - it wouldn't be for me either! I have a compact 34-50 in front, and Campy 13-29 in back, and even with my low gear of 34/29, I have occasionally wanted one or two lower gears on really steep climbs. You could also consider a triple crankset for an even lower low gear (most triples have a 30 tooth granny gear), but that will require a new bottom bracket and possibly a front derailleur change. Consult your LBS and save your knees!

Emily

P.S. You're also correct in thinking that having to twist out of your clipless pedals with a lot of force can hurt your knees. Might want to look into some easy-release pedals like Speedplay X-series, Frogs, or Eggbeaters. I am sure there are many others, but those are the ones I am familiar with.

[alpinerabbit]

I think it is definitely the clip, how else come only my right knee hurts - I made it my habit to always get out on the same side. Will adjust the tension. Sooo I had a look at Gray's Anatomy (funky that) - I think it is the hamstring tendon. or summat.

But I am taking a break anyway. I did my first 70 km solo ride yesterday - yay me!
And solo allowed for a cappucino stop, something boyfriend doesn't want to do.

[CorsairMac]

But I am taking a break anyway. I did my first 70 km solo ride yesterday - yay me!
And solo allowed for a cappucino stop, something boyfriend doesn't want to do.

congrats on your ride rabbit!! and on the boyfriend and No Cappucino stop?? I'm thinking ya'll just need to leave him behind more often - or let him ride Waaaaaaaaaaaaaay ahead and then you can stop, enjoy that cup and catch him on the way back!