knee replacement - riding and pedals

midlandercp

I've had my right knee replaced six weeks ago and have been cleared for 'recreational cycling'. Before, I did audax's, (slow) club 10s and 25s and sportives. I've got back on the bike but am a bit concerned at twisting and releasing my pedal (SPD-SL), even on the weakest spring setting.

This isn't something I think I can get an answer from my consultant, even if I could quote a torque setting, which I can't find. Can anyone suggest a road pedal which has an easier release?

Also, if others have direct experience of the limits on 'recreational cycling' after this op I'd like to hear from them.

Vic

bornagaincycler

Go back to using straps until you get strong enough & have enough confidence to twist the knee when unclipping from SPD pedals. I had an ACL & MCL reconstruction plus cartilage trim in August 2006 & it has taken a good 18 months for me to feel confident with changing from straps to SPD. With straps it's just an straight in & straight out movement & it will get you through many miles as you build up. Simple really.

midlandercp

Thanks for this - I've dug out some old MTB pedals and splashed out £4 on some straps. I've talked this over with the surgeon who seems to think the twisting should be OK, but I'll stick with the toe clips while it still hurts.

Vic

zoomnloon

I had a TKR 2/17/04. In the past,I ve ridden with every pedal type there is. I've found that Egg Beaters work the best for my knee even though I'm on a road bike. There's too much float in Speedplays. Too much twist in Look style. I ride about 150 miles a week with no trouble at all. I have found that 170-172.5mm cranks work better than 175's.

Alex_Simmons/RST

I think we get the picture zoomloon.

What works for you may not work for someone else though.

I will have an similar issue when I get my bike leg prosthetic fitted next week. I don't have an ankle to twist anymore (on that side), so it will be interesting to see how I go with entry/release into/out of the pedal.

My current pedals are Campag Profit.

midlandercp

I've struggled a bit with toe clips, partly because mine are cheap, non-adjustable but also I could get embarrassed trying to twist out of them. I'm trying some Look Keo Easys - you can't adjust the spring but the pressure is light.

I'm encouraged that Zoomnloon is covering a decent mileage, that's about what I used to do pre-op.