Clipless Pedals and Cycle Shoe Cleats

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It comes as no surprise that some cyclists find the concept of clipless pedals confusing. The innovative clipless pedal superseded the less fashionable cage and strap style of toe-clips that were still popular in the 1980's. Clipless cycle pedals quickly became popular with cyclists because they are generally lighter and with practice much simpler to use. The concept is exactly the same as toe clip and straps but involves more of an initial investment. A concern of many cyclist (myself included having used toe-clips and straps in the past) is the problem of removing the foot quickly when you need to stop. The only genuine problem is when you are forced to stop suddenly or unexpectedly for example by an inconsiderate motorist or pedestrian (often the case in my own experience). It has to be noted that a competitive cyclist rarely makes any unnecessary stops.

Clipless pedals are specifically designed to allow the cyclist to be able to clip-in and clip out of the pedal easily. The investment is much greater because the cyclist has to buy a system of pedals and compatible clipless cycle cleats. The cleat refers to the projecting metal or hard rubber (or plastic) incorporated into the underside (sole) of the cycle shoe to provide traction. These types of cycle shoes are now often referred to simply as cleats by retailers, cyclists and enthusiasts. There are many different variations of design often separated by the style of cycling, for example road cyclist would generally use a single sided clip-in pedal. Extreme cyclists (including Mountain bikes MTB's) are more suited to double sided clip-in pedals. The pedals incorporate float systems (springs) that allow a small amount of sideways movement from the foot. To clip-in the cyclist only has to engage the clipless cycle cleat shoe into the pedal and press down. To clip-out the cyclist only has to turn the heel of the shoe to release it. In the event that cyclist participate in both (or more) sports then he/she must decide whether to buy separate pedals and cleats for each bicycle (for example road and mountain bikes) or buy one system to use for both sports.

Although it is natural to initially feel apprehensive about using clipless cycle pedals and cleats they do have several advantages. A clipless pedal system provided the cyclist with a more efficient method of pedalling. This is because the foot is firmly attached to the pedal (via the cleat) and utilises the entire revolution of the pedal stroke or cadence. So maintaining the same cadence (crank speed) the cyclist is getting more power from the same amount of effort. When the foot is not attached firmly to the pedal the cyclist only utilised the power from the down stroke (when pushing downward on the pedals). Using clip less pedals the cyclist can pedal more efficiently by also utilising the energy from the up-stroke - which has to be done before applying another down stroke. The outcome is clearly that for the same amount of energy a cyclist can ride further or faster with less fatigue. An additional benefit being that the rider reduces the risk of muscle injury or dehydration from over exertion - except for the fact that a competitive rider would simply go for more speed! (FTW)

Advantage

• Improved power and performance
  

Disadvantages

• Expensive
  
• Shoes (cleats) and pedals have to be compatible
  
• You cannot use the pedals without the shoes (so no going to get the paper in your slippers!)
  
• May be uncomfortable for cyclist who have had knee injuries
  
• Painful injuries*
  

*Obviously there are some disadvantages but it has to be stated that once the cyclist is used to the system, injuries (from not unclipping the shoes from the pedal) are unlikely to occur. Painful injuries applies to sudden impact or unexpected incident when the feet are attached to the pedal (via the cleats).

There are several popular brands of clipless pedal on the market. Shimano Pedalling Dynamics (Shimano SPD - copied by some brands) is a popular choice for mountain bikers. Other popular brands of clipless pedal include Crank Brothers, Wellgo SPD, Ritchey SPD, Speedplay (Frogs), Look and Time (ATAC) - often called ATTACKS. Crank Brothers designed a four sided clip-in pedal known as the "Egg Beater" which can be used for road or off-road cycling. Some cyclist have noted that SPD style pedals can take some getting used to due to their smaller size. Look pedals are a popular choice with beginners to clipless cycle pedals. Touring cyclists prefer to use pedals that can be clipped in on one side but also have a conventional flat side that can be used without cleats. This type of pedal may suit the cyclist who like to nip down the shop for a newspaper in his/her slippers. Later designs of clip-in pedals (based on the requirements of the cyclist) are likely to allow most pedals to be used with or without cleats as this technology becomes more advanced.

If toe-clip and straps or clipless cycle pedals do not appeal to your style of riding or budget a less expensive and environmentally friendly alternative is available. I recently discovered an inventive product on the market called feetbelts. These are toe straps that are made from recycled seat belts and attached to the pedals with bolts. They can be adjusted to fit your footwear choice so it doesn't matter so much about your choice of cycling shoes. A very interesting option for the less committed cyclist. Less of an investment and more convenient than the old fashioned caged toe-clips of the past. I have not tried these but would reserve some doubt about removing the feet quickly (if you have them quite tight - as required for them to work properly). They are very similar to Power Grips (Power Grip Sport Pedal and Strap Sets).

There is no doubt that for most cyclist who invest in clipless pedals and cleats there is no turning back. Please read my next post about the Bicycle Lights

James Riddle