| pphalen | 02 Jun 2008 10:34 a.m. PST |
I know we have some (bi)cyclists here?
So, I'm looking for a recommendation for a clipless Mt. Bike pedal that it is either wide enough, or dual-sided to use without the cleat. Specifically, if I am going around the corner to ride with my kids, I just want to wear my "tennis shoes" and not have to clip in. |
| nycjadie | 02 Jun 2008 11:35 a.m. PST |
Personally, I wear clip pedals for long distance and I use a wide flat metal pedal for short distances. My "default" pedal is the flat metal one. They have little grips on them that stick out instead of up (which don't get in the way of the cleats). I tend to break the plastic pedals after a few months given that I like to ride hard. They just break on me. As for shoes, I use a cleatless biking shoe for my clips. They are easier on my feet when I'm off the bike. When I'm on the bike, I use a crosstrainer or my MBT's. |
| FusilierDan | 03 Jun 2008 4:19 a.m. PST |
I know that shimano makes a pedal like that. platform on one side spd on the other. I haven't used them as I have look compatible pedals. |
| nycjadie | 03 Jun 2008 6:27 a.m. PST |
I'm not crazy about the dual-purpose pedals because the weight is heavier on one side and they always flip over to the clip-portion. This is not fun if you're stopping and starting a lot (like I do in NY). |
| pphalen | 03 Jun 2008 7:38 a.m. PST |
Thanks Steve. I Was considering something like that, but the was concerned with just what you pointed out. I found this on Bike Nashbar: link Which for 8 bucks is worth a try… |
| Ditto Tango 2 1 | 03 Jun 2008 1:17 p.m. PST |
I did cycle a lot in the past and am now just only able to get back into it. I've never worn bike shoes/cleats – what do they do? I've eschewed pedals in the past that have a sort of cage on them – I never liked the idea of my foot not being free to be pulled up from a chasing dog's jaws or to suddenly push out if I were teetering at a slow speed.
--
Tim |
| nycjadie | 03 Jun 2008 2:42 p.m. PST |
Clips (whether metal clips or fabric cages) allow you to have full rotation of the pedal at all times. So instead of just pushing down, you can pull up, push out and pull down. It allows you to go super-fast. And yes, you are right, you can also not be able to pull that foot out in time and land on your side. It's happened to me at least a dozen times. I was on an organized ride and the guy in front of me stopped short. I couldn't get my clip out on time so I fell from sitting height onto my shoulder, knocking down the rider next to me. He was very angry. He was so angry, that he punched me and wiped the grease on his leg onto me. I was profusely sorry, and tried to explain everything, but he made a bit scene. Later that day he apologized, but it was a bit too late. Never rode with that group again. Some people are not very understanding. |
| Whatisitgood4atwork | 03 Jun 2008 8:05 p.m. PST |
I don't use clips. Again because I use my bike to commute and for transport rather than purely exercise. I choose steel pedals with plenty of 'tread'. the top profiles are essentially like 4 rows of thick, blunt saw-blades. They are quite tough on the soles of your shoes over time, but they won't slip if the pedals are wet. Most bikes are sold with clip ons. Just ask the shop to swap them over. |
| Corto Maltese | 04 Jun 2008 2:23 a.m. PST |
I've been using Shimano M545 pedals for years and really like them. They have clips on both sides, but the platform is big enough to ride for short distances in ordinary shoes. If you don't need them to be particularly strong, i.e. if you don't do much off-road riding, then there is also the M424, which is essentially the same pedal but with a plastic platform. I understand the plastic portion is replaceable if you end up breaking it. Cheers Paul |
