Clipless Pedals

markdavidhill

I'm new to clipless pedals and I am using the Crank Brother (egg beater) type.

I chose these because of the amount of movement they offer while pedalling. However, I think this may be working against me because it means the pedal requires greater twist from the cleat to get released.

I have now toppled off three times in a month, after coming to a standstill. It may simply be my lack of preparation when slowing in getting released.

What other pedals would you recommend that release more punctually, or is it simply me?

andrewjoseph

You are aware that crank bros cleats have two ways to set up?

if you read the info that comes with the pedals, you will see that if you have the cleats one way, the angle is 15Deg, and the other way it's 20Deg. make sure you have them set for 15deg, as this is a shallower release angle.

Also, try to time your ankle twist to the bottom of the pedal stroke, it is much easier to release in this position as you can twist you whole leg and not just your ankle.

markdavidhill

Andrew, I didn't know that. Thank you.

How do I know which way the cleat should be fitted to achieve 15 degrees?

I have emailed Crank.

andrewjoseph

I think the cleat with the two dots in the middle like this : go on the left foot.

wait a mo, I'll search for it now.

here it is: http://www.crankbrothers.com/support/product_documentation/instructions_quattro_2hole_install.pdf

It tells you that for 15deg release, put the cleat with the two dots on the right shoe.

I know this link is for quattro pedals, but the cleats work the same with all CB pedals.

this paperwork should have been with the pedals, did you not get one?

andrewjoseph

As an aside, i now use time atac pedals, they have a 13 and 17 deg release angle and the same 6deg of float.

markdavidhill

Thanks Andrew.

I didn't get any paperwork as the pedals came on my recently acquired custom build Lynskey.

markdavidhill

Bugger! Mine are already set up for 15 degrees.

andrewjoseph

The main thing about being comfortable with clipless is anticipation, recognising when you need to start unclipping, and, just as important, when you do not.

Sometimes, when at slow speed and you feel you are falling, a quick stomp on the pedal can get you out of the situation, whereas, trying to unclip can just be wasting time and energy better spent on going a bit faster.

It will get better with practice, but even the pro's have clipless moments.

Another thing is to ensure the cleats are fixed firmly in place and not too loose. i had a cleat bolt come out on me a week ago, I could not get my foot out as the cleat was twisting with my foot and so not disengaging.

markdavidhill

Andrew, Hi.

I spent the afternoon trying other pedals on a rolling road. Just about everything and anything was better than the Crank Brothers.

I'm now using the standard issue 'Look' pedals. So easy and precise in entry and exit and you can still clip out with your raised foot, unlike the CBs.

There is hope for me.

ps. My Brooks B15 Swallow Titanium should arrive tomorrow.

andrewjoseph

Glad you've got something sorted.

as for the brooks, you are a cad sir!

markdavidhill

I am upset.