Quote:
Originally Posted by Tambohamilton
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.
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Thanks. I actually got some One Up pedals that were pretty well reviewed. I just have been debating installing them. 5.10 looks like they make some great shoes but I want to stick with the Boa closing system and it is getting hard to find their freeride shoes for flats with that BOA system. Maybe discontinued? In any event, I figured I'd go to my local bike store and try some on as I have weird feet that can be tough to fit. Either a 12 Wide or a 13 regular, depending on the shoe.
Good to know I am on the right track. Hope I don't regret it but never run "real" flats with the pins before. My last bike had the cheapie flats that come with the bike before I switched to SPD's.