Worth getting new pedals

Finlab6

Recently started using my GT Avalanche for commuting. I have never riden with anything other than toe straps. What are the benefits of SPD and would it justify the outlay for pedals and shoes? If yes are there spd shoes that would be usable on a road bike aswell as I fancy getting into that when I'm a bit fitter?

t0pc4t

There is a big debate in the general forum at the moment about whether or not cleats in general give a power increase or not.

I ride with SPDs and I find that they are easier to get in and out of than toestraps.

I use MTB style SPDs on my road bike, hybrid and my MTB

Personally, power gain or not, I like the feeling of being clipped in

.blitz

I have used SPDs for so long I find it difficult to ride a bike without them but I accept that they're not for everyone and some people prefer flats :P

SPDs can be awkward to disengage in a hurry but multi-release cleats and experimenting with the tension can make it easier. Sometimes they cause knee problems.

Pure road shoes tend to be lighter than MTB shoes but because the cleat protrudes, they are not suitable for walking in.

If you want to give it a go, some M520 pedals can be had for less than £20 and something like MT21 shoes will be pretty much the same. Best to spend some time getting the cleat position comfortable (the adjustment range is generous) and practicing clipping in/out. There will inevitably be some comedy falls until you get used to them but a bit of tape on the bars with 'TWIST!' written on it helps.

Someone will be along in a moment to tell you that flats are better

ride_whenever

anything is better than straps!

If you like being attached then try spds, you'll be amazed at how much easier life is than with straps. Or try some proper flats if you're not so happy being tied onto the bike.

As for shoes, if you want something that can be used on your road bike then go for a stiffer pair of mtb race shoes rather than the train type as they'll be more suited to road riding, then use a second set of pedals on your road bike so you don't need to switch cleats.

.blitz

t0pc4t wrote:

There is a big debate in the general forum at the moment about whether or not cleats in general give a power increase or not.

13 pages and counting

ride_whenever

well it isn't quite the same debate, anything is better than toe-straps.

SPDs will hold you into place better, you can choose stiffer or more casual footwear to go with it, you can get out waaaaaaaaaaaaaay more easily.

The only disadvantage is the initial outlay and that you need your shoes (although short runs are still possible round town etc. in the wrong shoes)

cavegiant

also look at 5.10/thin flats combo, it is the alternative to SPDs which a lot prefer

Anonymous

ride_whenever wrote:

anything is better than straps!

If you like being attached then try spds, you'll be amazed at how much easier life is than with straps. Or try some proper flats if you're not so happy being tied onto the bike.

^^That is all you need to read of this thread. Oh, and this bit, otherwise you wouldn't know to only read that bit above. and this. Obviously.

Northwind

Last time we were at Kirroughtree one of the girls in the group was doing mcmoab with toestraps. ****ing mental frankly. Terrible things. SPDs might seem more "attached" but it's easier to get out of them.