Quote:
Originally Posted by Needsdecaf
Question: Who rides clipless and who rides flats?
I've biked my whole life but took a long break until I moved to TX 12 years ago and got back into biking. My first thought in riding our single track trails is that "I really want to ride clipless" because of the nature of the terrain, roots, etc. So I've been doing that for a while.
My biggest issue is that our trails are so sandy that at times it's easy to wash out while turning. I'm working on improving my form (always) but with clipless, it's often the case that you don't have enough time to get a foot out quickly enough. I've adjusted my release tension low so that they come out fairly easily but it's still not the same as flats.
Anyone switched from SPD's to flats and enjoyed it?
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I use SPDs for the turbo, but always flats on MTB. No major downsides really, other than occasionally messing up and nearly losing a foot, or taking a few seconds to get my placement right. SPDs are good for security and getting in the right position every time, but TBH rough terrain would make me lean more towards flats than clips.
You need to get decent pedals and shoes though, and you need to get your form decent for success.
Pedals should be concave, with decent threaded pins (yes, honestly the thread on the protruding pin makes a huge difference!). They can be have a plastic body to save money and grams - honestly a decent plastic pedal can be really good!
Shoes need to have rubber with a slow rebound. 5.10 are the gold standard for this. They also need to have a reasonably stiff midsole so the pedals don't make your feet ache. Of course, fit is important too.
You'll have most success placing your foot quite far forward on the pedal - ball of your foot between the axle and front row of pins. Critically important is keeping your heels low (placing your foot forward on the pedal helps with this) - this is what will stop your feet from getting bounced off the pedals. Also helps to keep you low on the bike when you really need the stability/confidence.