August 10, 2008
By: IMNJ
Category: MTB Gear
Since my bike came with Shimano PD-M505 clipless peddles I did not see any reason to change them. I had toe-clips on my old road bike and did not foresee any issues going clipless. Ater getting my bike I ran out to get a pair of new bike shoes to go with my peddles. My shop did not have my size in stock so I went to another great local shop SC Action Sports in Howell. They hooked me up with a great pair of Spiuk mountain biking shoes and were kind enough to offer to put the clips on for me. That was the easy part.
Getting used to the clips seemed a lot more challenging. The first time I slipped on my new shoes and hoped on my bike and clipped in as I began to pedal away. After a quick circle I fell over like a dead weight right on my lawn. The neighborhood kids got a great laugh and I looked like an idiot. Oh well, you live and you learn.
After a few trail runs I got better but the clips were very tight. Once I adjusted the clips a bit I was far better off. Unfortunately before I learned the fine art of tweaking the tension on the pedal I had several other novice flops including one for the amusement of our local police. My buddy Doug thought that was quote amusing, especially since he went for the traditional BMX style peddle.
While I am still a bit nervous about my ability to unclip I am becoming used to them, but it took several weeks. This weekends run in Clayton Park was my best run. Clipless is not for everyone but I think once you get used to them they are a great advantage, especially on climbs and bumpy terrain where pedal slippage is possible. While my pride was a bit tarnished I am glad I stuck with it.
Best wishes,
Howie
I have a love mountain biking and the great outdoors. I try to lead a active and healthy life style with my family and friends. NJ has so much to enjoy and appreciate outdoors.
August 17th, 2008 at 9:28 am
I started off on clipless pedals with the Shimanos too, and they were WAY too tight. Of course I didn’t realize this, and thought this is just the way they feel. I hit the ground a few times. I finally ran them on the loosest setting, and most of the problems were gone! I would however unclip unexpectedly on little jumps and stuff.
About a year ago I switched to eggbeaters. I liked them so much that I put them on all my bikes. Lots of float, easy to get out, and I never disengage until I’m ready. The float isn’t for everyone, and I still know people that prefer the locked in feel of the Shimanos.
I remember the confidence level dropped for a few months until clipless pedals became natural. Little obstacles scared me, because I was afraid I wouldn’t be able to get out on time. These days it’s so natural that I find my self doing the unclipping motion even on flat pedals!
August 17th, 2008 at 2:54 pm
Hi I bought a Giant Trance and I ended up like your buddy Doug ! I got shoes fell once and I was too scared to ever try them again. I bought BMX style pedals
Rene
Ringwood NJ