Not Being Able To Touch The Ground?

[Skierchickie]

Don't over-think it! Go back to platforms, and ride until it becomes natural, then switch back to the clipless pedals. Just remember that you should not be on the saddle when stopped - just straddling the top tube. Have fun! And getting on and off a trainer shouldn't be too bad, because it's stationary.

[RubyTuesday]

I feel your pain Bethany. I just started on clipless pedals a few weeks ago and for a few days, I was afraid of my bike. I fell the first five minutes riding, but haven't fallen again since that first tumble. My elbow is healing well thanks.

I am short legged and I also cannot reach the ground when I am on my saddle. When I stop, I stand on my pedals and unclip the foot that I indend to step down on. This being said, don't go changing your mind about what foot you are going to step down on at the last second. That is how I took my first fall.

If you aren't feeling secure on your bike, go back to your platform pedals until you feel more "one with your bike". It is better to just ride right now and worry about form and distance later. If you aren't riding because the clips make you nervous then you are losing ground.

I have to say, I love my clipless pedals now, but I am still talking to myself when I stop. Hang in there.

[Bethany1]

I got my bike up on the trainer (sure beats the 100 degrees outside but is rather boring) and worked on getting on/off. My problem is getting the pedals turned right side up. If I didn't spend time flipping them, I could get on/off with ease. I keep looking down to flip them over which makes it dangerous out on the road.

Do the make clipless pedals for my road bike that are on both sides?

After a couple of miles I realize why my feet are killing me. I scrunch my toes up and I turn my ankles in making my feet lean into the center. I'm putting pressure on the balls where my big toes are. My knees are straight. Any solutions? I have Shimano SPDSLs size 42 womens.

My left arm started hurting again and I think it's because I don't relax and lean to that side. I'm constantly compensating for that balance issue making my front tire wobble. I have the front tire on a stand and was amazed at the wobble.

I also spend time looking at the ground and my computer and back up again. No wonder I can't ride a bike. LOL.

It's amazing what you discover on a trainer. Now do I really want to spend 300 bucks on a trainer? Not really, but it beats the miserable heat.

[Owlie]

I know there are road pedals that exist that are weighted so that the side you clip in on is up. If you're willing to swap pedal systems, there are double-sided SPDs.

As to your feet, you're probably going to have to just tell yourself to stop scrunching your toes.
Take the computer off your bike if it's distracting. Put it in your back pocket or something if it's wireless and you still really want to know how many miles you've done.

BTW, I got a trainer for $160 new. It can be done.

[Biciclista]

yes they DO make the pedals you want!!
Shimano PD-M770 Deore XT SPD Mountain Bike Pedals

[Nick]

Bethany, -- I'm in the same boat -- new bike, new fit, much higher, feet off ground and struggling with the clipless. I took two falls today trying to clip out. And my bike whacked me -- hard -- in the chest.

I can say that at my new height and with the adjustments to seat and whatnot my body feels better on the bike. I can tell that the leg movement is at a much better angle for me. So once I'm actually on the bike -- adjusting to the new height and fit is fine and my ride is smooth.

But, clipping in and out is what is getting me! I might have to take the advice you received here -- go back to platforms until I have a good feel for the new height (and, in my case, full suspension), then try clipless once I have the hang of the new changes. Good luck with whatever you decide! Keep us posted...

[Biciclista]

Why don't you get a pair of regular old pedals until you get used to the bike?? there's no way I could do both at the same time!!