Ive seen that article a while back, never did any research further on it though.

I don't have experience with clipless, but when riding my fixie with normal shoes, I tend to slide my feet forward when I need to stop quickly (I don't have a brake) as I find it gives me more force backwards. But this is only reverse force, not forward driving force. If I were racing backwards, I'd most certainly pedal from the center of my foot.

Scientifically, this makes sense, as your legs will trasfer more force through the pedal if your ankle plays less a role in stabilizing your foot. The energy loss through here in a normal, forefoot placement will be lessened and you should gain power.

This actually what brought me to try and investigate the topic. I too ride my fixie as you and found the same thing. It is an effective tech. for slowing down especially when accompanied with standing.

I have my cleats alide all the way back on their adjustment. It works rather well for me. I wouldnt do it with an SPD cleat. that cleat design doesnt not work well in terms of disengagement. I would hate to try it that far back on my shoe.

It's funny, I watched the Olympics BMX and noted that most of the riders had clip in pedals that looked like they were mounted UNDER THEIR HEELS. I thought that was bizarre, but didn't think too much about it. This does make some sense though... might be interesting to try some trifuel experiments...

+1

I don't have that much leeway w/ mine...when I slide the cleat all the way back, it's still under the ball of my foot (not under my arch), albeit toward the rear.