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  1. #1
    Join Date
    Jul 2012
    Posts
    6

    Clip-in pedals and Cycling shoe suggestions

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    Hi All,

    I have recently really gotten interested in cycling and I am loving it! Additioanlly, I am training for my first tri!

    I really want to upgrade my cage pedals to clip-in ones, but I have no idea where to start. Are some better than others for beginners? I am not going to lie--I am totally nervous about busting my butt in these things. Any suggestions on clips, pedals, or shoes would totally help.

    Oh yeah, well as a librarian...budget is always a consideration....

  2. #2
    Join Date
    Apr 2009
    Location
    Tucson, AZ
    Posts
    4,632
    Shoes: buy ones that fit and are drilled for your pedal of choice. Perhaps if you can give us your foot characteristics (wide/narrow, narrow heel, etc) we can give specific suggestions. My suggestion right now is to go try on a bunch. They should fit more snugly than sneakers, but they shouldn't be tight.

    I've been using Shimano M540 pedals for two years. Decent pedal for the price, and I found them easy to use once I got past the fear. Speedplays are also supposed to be easy to get in and out of.

    Depending on your needs (I see you're getting into tris), you might consider a true road pedal off the bat. DBF loves his Look Keos, and Speedplay does make several road pedals.
    At least I don't leave slime trails.
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    Saving for the next one...

  3. #3
    Join Date
    Jul 2012
    Posts
    6
    I generally have a pretty average foot--normal width, a slightly narrow heel.

    Thanks for your suggestions! I am considering the Speedplay Light Actions or the Look Keo Easy pedals...suggestions? I really like the idea of the speedplay dual-sided entry.

  4. #4
    Join Date
    Apr 2012
    Location
    On my bike
    Posts
    96
    I was considering both pedals when I first got my bike and decided on the Looks. I didn't go with Speedplay because reviews were mentioning that the Speedplays required more maintenance. Since it was my first time with clipless I decided to go with the Looks for ease. So far I've been pretty happy with them.

  5. #5
    Join Date
    Aug 2012
    Location
    Austin Tx
    Posts
    1
    I started on Shimanos but couldn't get comfortable with them so I switched to Speedplays. Since I was still quite new to riding they really elevated my comfort level and I felt much less fearful.....especially because of their dual-sided entry. I love Speedplays and wouldn't use anything else. As far as maintenance, I lubricate them every few thousand miles and that's it.

  6. #6
    Join Date
    Dec 2011
    Location
    Richmond, VA
    Posts
    329
    No matter what you get- taking the time to practice clipping and unclipping on grass and then in a parking lot (no traffic) is very worth your time. The local Luna chix mt bike team advised me to start with Shimano SPDs and I love them- easy in and out both directions- have on my road and mt so I only bought one pair of shoes (: Once you get used to it you will be so glad you switched!

 

 

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