Just getting back into riding.

purplemad

Hi all,

After a long time off the bike I've been out for a couple of rides the past few weeks. I had a shoulder injury a while ago and am not comfortable enough on my road bike to go out on it as the position makes my shoulder ache like mad, so I am using a MTB with slicks on for a few months at least. The only downside(I'm laughing when I write this) is I need to buy some new pedals, shoes and a new seat. Oh and while I'm spending money I may buy a bike computer for this one too!!! Oh and a new jacket, and the list could go on and on really for me!

How difficult are the cleats and pedals to fit? When I got my road bike last year they fit them in the shop for me, and I'm really interested in actually getting my hands dirty(so to speak) and learning how to do it myself.

Also is there any sort of advice you can give me to get me back into it properly.

Am I still allowed in here(road beginners) if I'm riding a MTB with slicks on the road? Or should I be elsewhere. If it helps I want to be on my road bike more than this one, and my road bike is currently set up on the TT.

markos1963

Fitting pedals is relatively easy but there are a few rules to follow.
1. Make sure you get a good quality pedal spanner, they often have to take a heavy load and a cheap one will easily break.
2. Put the chain on the large chainwheel to help protect you if you should slip.
3. In the same vein wear some gloves just in case you slip(I found out the hard way, still have the scars)
4. Put some grease on the pedal threads to help with undoing them next time.
5. I use a washer between the crank arm and pedal, again this helps when its time to change over.
6. Don't forget pedals are left/right handed and are usually marked as such.

Cleats are a different matter. Techincally they are easy(just make sure they are tight before use) the problem is position. Everybody has a different pedalling style and how you place them is very personal. You may find that you make several adjustments before you get them right.

You are very welcome in this forum, despite riding a tractor

unclemalc

Having recently changed pedals on an old-ish bike, I would venture to add that a squirt of easing/graphite oil onto the pedal/crankarm joint, and left overnight, will help to get it undone if its old and tight.
Also, get someone to stand on the other pedal while you try to crack the other one open.

purplemad

Thanks for the replies. I'll bear those things in mind when I buy them.

Me and my tractor will be out and about properly within the next few weeks, for now it's them damn toe clips that seem to attach themselves to my laces when I want to take my foot out. :x