Switching form normal pedals to clip ons?

Question

Ok, i have had a road bike for a while and am now ready to make the transition to the clip on shoes. What parts (pedals, cleats shoes etc.) will i need to set it all up. In other words what are the different parts i will need to purchase?

Thanks

Answer 1

If you're doing mostly leisure or light excercise riding, I would recommend an SPD style clipless. These are nice in that the cleats are generally recessed into to shoe somewhat to allow you to get off the bike and walk around comfortably. If you're on a budget and can only afford so much at one time, go with a system like the Shimano M324 SPD Pedal, which has an SPD clip on one side and a standard pedal on the other, giving you the option of purchasing shoes later.

Any pedal system should include the cleat as well, just leaving you the shoes to buy. If you're worried about installation, buy at your local bike shop instead of online and they will mount your pedals and cleats for you.

Answer 2

basicly choose a system first.  i use looks, but there are also time and others.  when you buy your pedals they will come with a set of cleats for your shoes.  when you buy your shoes make sure they are compatible with your pedal system.  for mine they will say look compatible for example.  from there it is just a matter of taking the old ones off, putting the new ones on, mounting the cleat to the shoe, adjusting it as close as you can and start using them.  you will find you will have to fine tune the adjustment as far as cleat position, so carry tools to do that on your first few rides especially.

Answer 3

When you select what pedals you want, they will come with a set of cleats to install on the shoes. Then select a pair of shoes that are compatible with the cleats/pedals. In general there are 2 bolt and 3 bolt patterns on shoes. Some have 5 bolt, that is they can be used with both 2 and 3 bolt cleats.

If in doubt, simple ask the seller to verify the compatibility. You will then need to install the pdeals and the cleats on the shoes. There are minor adjustment to the cleats and pedals you can make. These will be explained in the instructions.

Answer 4

First, decide on a system. I use the Look system. Everyone I know who has tried Speedplay or Crank Bros likes them. A few SPD riders say that the small contact area is an issue for road bikes more than mountain bikes because you spend a longer time in the saddle on a road bike.

All you need to buy to get going is the pedals and the shoes. The first set of cleats is usually included with the pedals. All systems are either 2 bolt or 3 bolt. Make sure your shoes are compatible. Some shoes will work with both systems (they have 5 bolt holes).

If you are going to install the system yourself, you might need a pedal wrench to get the old pedals off and properly tighten the new ones. I bought my pedal wrench at Performance for $10. Be very careful when removing the old pedals. I've seen several guys get their hands chewed up pretty badly from the outer chain ring when changing pedals. Remember that the left pedal has a reverse thread. Put a small dab of grease on the threads before installing your new pedals. You'll be glad you did when it's time to take them off again.

HTH

Answer 5

I disagree with some of the previous responders. In general, I'd advise choosing the shoes first. Unless your shoes fit well and are comfortable, you're going to be miserable regardless of the pedals and cleats or brand or "system". Once you find shoes you like, that will narrow your choices of cleats which fit the shoes and pedals which fit the cleats. Go to your friendly local bike shop and they will steer you right.

Oh, by the way, you can't walk in "road" shoes. Even with a road bike, you need "mountain" shoes if you want to be able to walk in them.