Clipless Pedals

[Koronin]

I have regular platform pedals on my Mountain bike and the ones that are platform on one side and clipless on the other side on my road bike. I think the one for my right foot isn't adjusted correctly because it can be difficult to unclip it and that is the foot I need upclipped when I stop. So I end up riding have the time with my left foot clipped in and my right foot unclipped. But I also like these pedals because I can also ride with my regular tennis shoes if I choose to.

[Owlie]

If you're riding in urban areas, I don't think clipless is worth it. There's too much stopping and you don't get the full benefits, but all the hassles.

That said, I think I improved my speed and climbing skills (well, not saying much) with clipless because you do get more power--you can utilize the upstroke. It's also really useful if you start flagging--I just tell myself to pull up, and it takes some of the burden of my tired quads.

Part of me would also like to take the pedals off so going for a ride doesn't have to be a big production, and I can just wear my regular shoes.

Don't change it because you feel you have to to be a "big girl." If you reach a point where you want to try it, for whatever reason (and yes, that can be "just because"), go for it.

[Catrin]

There are advantages to being clipless - it aids in hill climbing and because we can use the entire pedal stroke we use less energy over the same route, and more security in a cross wind (at least to me there is). There are advantages to a good set of BMX or other quality platform pedal - poor quality platforms are not worth the frustration - one less step involved in stopping, wider range of shoes, etc.

There are cyclists who will say that you can't "be" a cyclist without being attached to your bike - but that is of course just silliness. If you want to try it then go for it, but it isn't required. I only do it because all of my riding is in the country. I am fortunate that while I do live in the city, I can ride - or drive - to my beloved country roads very quickly. I do not care for urban riding, but if I DID, I would certainly use my BMX peals rather than clipping in.

[emily_in_nc]

I don't agree with those who don't like riding clipless in urban areas, BUT (big caveat) I have been riding clipless for well over a decade and would feel naked without them. My feet would flying everywhere! They're as natural to me as bread and butter. But I probably wouldn't START with them in an urban area b/c there is a lot of stopping and starting. It would be a challenging way to learn clipless, and scary.

With mine (Eggbeater Candies), I can pedal with the second foot out of the clip if needed and a lot of stops are anticipated. But I always keep my first foot clipped in. Helps give leverage for all those starts!

[Becky]

What Emily said. Clipless and urban/near-urban riding can be done, and I find it beneficial. Occasionally annoying, depending on traffic, but beneficial overall.