"stratrider" <
[email protected]> wrote in message
news:[email protected]...
> I have been riding with Specialized Rockhopper mtn bike shoes with SPD pedals for over 4 years.
> They are comfortable on and off the bike. Yet, I am thinking about going to a somewhat stiffer,
> lighter shoe with a budget of sub $100. As for pedals, I continue to read about the vitues of the
> Egg Beaters, the Frogs, and the Bebops. At this momement, I am leaning toward the Speedplay Frogs.
> Any advice on shoes and pedals would be appreciated.
Nashbar.com, PerformanceBike.com and other shops often have excellent shoe sales. I have to
recommend Diadora shoes for amazing value and durability. They're a bona fide bargain.
Value in a pedal is entirely up to you. I have SPD type pedals (made by Wellgo) on one of my bikes.
I find their performance more than adequate, and they're extremely cheap - $17 for pedals and cleats
on sale at Nashbar. Once you find the "pocket" and get clipped-in, they're not too bad; but that's
the problem: They're a pain to get used to.
Speedplay Frogs aren't bad. I've owned a pair; but the little tiny polymer spring that basically
holds your foot from dropping straight off the pedals kinda scared me. Then one of the flimsy little
polymer springs ripped in half one day, and they were toast. That was my last try with Frogs.
Egg Beaters do look like an excellent design. I've come very close to buying a pair on sale ($60/pr
at various outlets) just to give 'em a try.
BeBops are my favorite pedals, hands down. I use them for all types of riding on all types of bikes
and terrain. The two great things about BeBops are ease of clip-in and *huge* free float. They are
an elegantly simple design, with excellent cleat retention, largest float of any pedal, lightest
pedals in the world, durable, versatile and easiest to learn how to use. Also, the large, round
cleat contact area works with regular street shoes (in a pinch). I can't say enough good things
about BeBop's. It's a shame they're kinda hard to find, and rather $pendy. Of course, Speedplays
aren't cheap either.
I encourage you to try as many pedals as you can. Try the Time ATAC's, SPD's, etc, etc. Get the
pedals that work best for you and your personal preferences. You'll be glad you did.
-Barry