"J. Saulinskas" <
[email protected]> wrote in message
news:20030[email protected]...
> >How does one start to learn how to use clipless pedals? I probably sound like a ****, but I'm a
> >bit nervous of making the switch
from
> >clips and cleats. Any advise on best ways to start off, avoiding
problems
> >and gaining confidence with them would be greatly appreciated.
>
> I started by just attaching one cleat and carrying the other with me
(along
> with the proper wrenches). This allowed for getting the hang of clipping
in and
> out with a 'free foot' just in case.
>
> It didn't take long,, less than an hour, to learn. Try to remember to unclip when stopping, thus
> avoiding the embarissing but
all
> too common " cartoon character slow motion sideway fall".
>
> Good luck
Sorry Guyz,
I have to relay my first day w/clipless. I also changed to a thinner tire, 23c, at the same time. I
just jumped in and went. That evening on my commute home, all was going well. I would start thinking
about kicking my heel out well before the stoplights and didn't have any problems.At one particular
light, I noticed I was stopping beside a car full of cute girls. I thought I would show off a bit
and pull up into my usual track stand. Did I mention *narrower* tires? Yep, you guessed it! Classic
Clipless Collapse! I'm sure I was in full spasm by the time I drifted past the bottom of the window
in my slow motion fall. Nothing injured but a *huge* quantity of pride. I quickly, and obviously
horizontally, unclipped, stood up, and stared straight ahead until the light changed. I now wouldn't
think of not ridding clipless, am used to narrow tires, and am, once again, able to trackstand at
the stoplights. I also don't try to show off anymore....at least, not too much.
Eric, your going to do just fine. Maybe have someone balance the bike while you learn the unclipping
motion. Then just go for it and think ahead. If you're commutting, learn to trackstand at the
stoplights, it saves a lot of time and energy clipping and unclipping. Two anti-flame warnings on
that subject: 1) Find a SAFE place to learn that trick, 2) wait until you are comfortable with
unclipping. Sometimes you lose balance and do need an emergency uclip.
Enjoy,
Dan