When to get clipless pedals?

The day you get your bike. After you get past the intimidation factor, you will be a better rider with them then without them.

When you buy the bike and leave the store the first time.

I fell over test riding bikes with those stupid toe clips... and I didn't leave the store with them. I went for clipless pedals and shoes from day 1.

GO GET THEM! Well worth every penny.

I just bought my first pair today.  Haven't gone out yet, but will tomorrow.

If you're serious about your riding, then get them now.  When riding bare shoe you are losing so much energy that could be put to use.

I don't know of anyone that regrets getting them.  Just practice getting out quickly on the grass.  Better to fall there than in front of a bus.  I think that probably everyone falls once and we lived through it.

Ted

 

I"m at the point I can barely remember not having htem and actually have trouble riding a bike without them. I first tried them on my bmx bike about 15 years ago then never road my mtb or road bike without them.  I've got a freestyle/park bike that doesn't have them but it is not the place for them (nor is it the place for me since last time I went I dislocated my shoulder..)

I got mine recently and have only used them about 3 times.  Up until last night, I was not impressed because I didn't feel as though they added much.  Then I discovered that my front wheel was loose to the point where I could push it very easily side to side and touch the brake pads.  I tightened it and I was amazed at how easily it was to generate power last night.  I did some steep hills while sitting and they were no issue.  I could feel how instead of "surging" as I pushed down, the motion was much more smooth and consistent. 

Ditto on the right away, assuming your not racing this weekend of course:-)  But, no reason to wait.  It is harder to get out of baskets IMO then clipless pedals.  And easier to get into them.

It depends on your comfort in the saddle and how long you think you'll be doing the sport (tri and cycling). I have clipless and shoes now but i got a really good deal on it. I went with a friend to look at them in the LBS and i didn't realize just how expensive they were! Honestly, she's still more into running so spending nearly what she spent on her bike (she got a great deal on her bike) on the shoes/pedals was kind of crazy since all she was planning on was the one tri ... she still hasn't committed to another yet.

I didn't get them right away because I hadn't had a bike since I was 14.  I needed some time on platforms to get comfy in the saddle - after about 6 months I was probably ready ...

but I guess if money's not an issue or you can get a good deal and you're good on your bike then go for it!

Yesterday.

Holy crap dude.  Glad you're still with us.  

I got mine before I left the store. Go and get them and you will never look back.Good Luck