General Discussion Triathlon Talk » going clipless for the 1st time! Rss Feed  
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2009-07-23 9:43 AM

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Auburn and New Orleans
Subject: going clipless for the 1st time!
I have a Giant Avail with the caged pedals and I train/race with my running shoes.  I think it is time to go clipless!  I have read a lot about it and I definitely want to look at tri-shoes first but are there any specific brands and models I should look at or is it more like running shoes and I should go for the best fit?  I have read about the different materials (carbon sole, etc...) but is that the main difference?

Also what pedals should I look for?  Is one brand better or are they just different?  I don't want to break the bank but I am willing to spend some money since I am convinced it will improve my times on the bike.


2009-07-24 12:07 AM
in reply to: #2303525

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Subject: RE: going clipless for the 1st time!

Clipless pedals are definitetly the first, best upgrade you can do on your bike.

There are bunches of threads here on what pedals people like--do a search on "clipless pedals" and you'll get a lot of info.  I think it reasonably quickly boils down to a combination of budget and personal preference.

2009-07-26 8:51 PM
in reply to: #2303525

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The Beautiful San Fernando Valley in Sunny L.A.
Subject: RE: going clipless for the 1st time!

IMO, this is one of those things best gone over at your LBS. Tell them you want to go clipless and what your concerns are (price, etc.). They'll work with you and steer you in the right direction.

Then be prepared to fall over...at least once. Don't give up on them but it's going to happen. Keep at it and you'll be fine.

2009-07-26 11:01 PM
in reply to: #2303525

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Subject: RE: going clipless for the 1st time!
I agree with the other posts - clipless will be a definite transition, but - BOY! will you be happy afterwards. Like they posted, too - I agree it's best decided with your LBS, where they can work with you to see your pedaling stroke, talk to you about your riding goals and find the best shoe/pedal combination for you specifically. I believe that Look KEO pedals were the most common pedals at Kona this past year - you can find out what everyone used there online; it's tracked. But, you might buy them and find you hate their platform, or the way you clip in and out. It's like underwear - everyone likes theirs a little different. Good luck - they'll make pedaling so much easier for you!
2009-07-26 11:32 PM
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Subject: RE: going clipless for the 1st time!
X2. 
2009-07-27 9:32 PM
in reply to: #2303525

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Subject: RE: going clipless for the 1st time!
I, went with Shimano Ultegra Pedals and Specialized Tri Vent shoes. No problems and would recommend them to anyone. My local shop put me on a bike and adjusted my perfect cleat position and made all adjustments on my bike when I switched from Mountain Bike pedals to road pedals. Have to agree with the LBS statement, the best part about this sport has been the relationship with my local lbs. They keep me in touch with all the races and doings around the area. Also, the trivents were a better buy as I had bought two other shoes before them and the carbon sole I highly recommend. Pretty much found that if you go for the cheaper shoe first you'll just buy the more expensive pair later on and be stuck with two pairs. Carbon Soles though have a carbon fiber bottom that helps with transfering power. Would highly recommend the Tri-Vent though. BTW - Your avatar looks great ! Sorry had to say it. 


2009-07-28 7:35 AM
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Auburn and New Orleans
Subject: RE: going clipless for the 1st time!
Thanks for the tips.  The main problem now is trying to find time to get to a good LBS.  I go to school at Auburn and there are not great shops here.  I am thinking I have to wait until I go home to New Orleans but that could be a long time.  I am impatient.  I might have to make a trip down in a few weeks just to get my new toys.
2009-07-28 4:39 PM
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Subject: RE: going clipless for the 1st time!
KFing - 2009-07-28 7:35 AM Thanks for the tips.  The main problem now is trying to find time to get to a good LBS.  I go to school at Auburn and there are not great shops here.  I am thinking I have to wait until I go home to New Orleans but that could be a long time.  I am impatient.  I might have to make a trip down in a few weeks just to get my new toys.

http://bikeshops.mtbr.com/cat/united-states/alabama/PLS_6213crx.aspx
http://www.specialized.com/us/en/bc/SBCDealerLoc.jsp - if your intrested in tri vent etc.

Actually found my LBS through a local race. 
2009-07-28 6:03 PM
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Subject: RE: going clipless for the 1st time!
Good Choice to go clipless...your going to love it.
I ust keo look sprints, take a look at them and also speedplay zero's, have not used them but also have heard good things about them.

Let us know how it goes.
2009-07-29 3:50 PM
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Subject: RE: going clipless for the 1st time!
I started with traps and went to clipless...........love them.

Only drawback is if you get off the bike and have to walk somewhere, it takes some getting used to

I did not practice much with mine when they were put on, just 3 times clipping in and out in the bike shop. I did plan ahead and start slowing way down if I thought I had to stop. Its instinct now.

And for my falling over clipped in story..........I was going up a real steep hill, downshifted gears, and my chain fell off, and down I went. And this was in Germany, my German is terrible, some car stops by and starts talking to me. I looked at them, held up one finger to say wait a sec...........unclipped, put my chain back on and took off.

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General Discussion Triathlon Talk » going clipless for the 1st time! Rss Feed