Clipless Pedals?
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584 days
CGroth posted 1 year ago.
Think of clipless pedals as a way to connect your shoe (a special shoe which has a cleat attached to the underside) to the bike. Using a spring mechanism you are able to clip in and out by twisting your foot. I believe the figure is that you gain about 40% more power by using these pedals. They take a bit of getting used to, but eventually it becomes second nature and you will learn to absolutely love them. I have a hard time riding without clipless pedals. In my opinion, they are one of the best upgrades someone can make to their bike. They do not cost too much money, and the benefit is HUGE!
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JamieM posted 1 year ago.
That pretty much says it. Here's another good definition:
http://sheldonbrown.com/gloss_cl.html#clipless
They do take some getting used to, but once you get through the initial adjustment period, you'll never want to go back.
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1393 days
Jstyle posted 1 year ago.
Going clipless is one of the best upgrades I have ever done to a bike!
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TriFatBoy posted 1 year ago.
To echo the sentiments, they are great! That said, practice getting in and out, and 'OH SHI' stopping in them, in a safe area.
~fatBoy
http://trifatboy.com
~fatBoy
http://trifatboy.com
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kylie posted 1 year ago.
Go for 'em! They are great... and then you'll be able to add your story of "my most embarassing slow motion fall" ;)
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bokchoy posted 1 year ago.
I agree with everyone above and I too am starting to have trouble riding without them. I went to the bike store the other day and could hardly go for a test ride on a bike with the cages, I looked like a total idiot :D
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1153 days
deepbluex posted 1 year ago.
Clipless pedals allow you to wear bike shoes which have a very stiff sole so there's better power transfer to the wheels (instead of flexing the sole of your foot). Clipless pedals also permit you to use a greater portion of the pedal rotation to transfer power (less coasting).
Once you get used to it, you'll love it. More efficient use of power means you get greater payoff for less effort.
What are clipless pedals? Do I need them?