What's an alternative to toe strapped pedals? I have trouble launching on my Road Bike and getting my foot in.

Question

I'm new to Road Biking. The toe straps seemed really cool at first, as they do keep the ball of my foot where its supposed to be and it definitely helps with increases power when pedaling. But I will end up killing myself trying to get my feet in those d**n things while traffic is flying up behind me. What is the alternative to toe straps that will give me the same secure foot setting but without mastering the art of getting my d**n feet in the straps?

Answer 1

Hi,

As a poster before me already mentioned, clip-less pedals are what you need. Look into Shimano SPD, they are quite good. You may find road-cycling shoes extremely uncomfortable to walk in (especially when you install cleats to them) and my suggestion is to buy mountain bike shoes instead. When you go to your local bike shop, just try a few and choose the ones that are most comfortable.

SPD pedals aren't usually used on road bikes but again, I think they are easier to clip in and out during traffic rush than most road-bike pedals.

Good luck and before you hit the traffic in your new shoes/pedals practice some place safe. Most people fall over while clipped in while going very slow (uphill, at traffic lights etc.) - with some practice you should be much safer out there. Before you know it you will never want to go back to regular flat pedals and clipping out will be effortless reflex.

Good luck,

Volodya

Answer 2

Agree with Mirage's advice. I keep my right foot engaged (makes sense here in the UK as the pavement, SORRY -"sidewalk" is on the left when stopped at the lights.

The Shimano RD540 pedals are fantastic value for money.

Just FYI, the cleats come with the pedals, so don't go around trying to look for a pair of cleats. Shimano also do good value road shoes too

Answer 3

Most people these days have given up toe clips and use clipless pedals.  A cleat screws to the bottom of your shoe and locks into the pedal.  Much easier to get into than toe clips and even better for power transfer.  For a road bike look at Shimano SPD-SL shoes and pedals.

EDIT - for cheap SPD-SL look for the old style Shimano 105 R540 on eBay.  If you're using the bike for commuting as the guy below says try SPD.  Wellgo do SPD pedals for about half the price of Shimano.  You'll obviously need to add the cost of shoes to that.

Answer 4

Rather than trying to get your foot in the pedal right away, simply keep ONE foot in and use the bottom of the pedal to get moving enough so you can coast and get the other foot in. Takes a bit of practice... I have been doing this for a looooong time and it is second-nature.

Clipless pedals are great but are generally more expensive than most new riders want to spend, plus if you are commuting it requires bringing an extra pair of shoes with you.