Cycle shoes and pedals

[maevemasterson]

Hi,

I'm hoping someone can guide me in the right direction as I'm quite new to cycling. I got my self a road bike a few months ago and I'm looking into getting the clip in pedals and shoes but I've no idea what to be looking for.

Can anyone tell me please what are good brands that aren't over the top in price (student life....) or where's best to look ? Or if someone has pedals/shoes at home not in use/for sale I'd be interested in having a look at them

Thank you,

Maeve

[cbigley]

Two main brands would be Shimano (spd sl) and look (keo) both very similar in use and price - the pedals will start at approx €45 euro and should included cleats which fit to the bottom of the shoe. For shoes the more expensive you buy the stiffer (better, more efficient) they will be with carbon soles etc. Starting price for shoes that will last would be around €80 - good brands are giro, Shimano, northwave, bont, mavic, specialised - I would try on before you buy as shape and fit varies massively. Good luck. And don't worry you will get used to the clipping in and out very quickly and will never look back.

[sharonmeyler]

Consider the ones that allow you to use ordinary shoes as well. I've changed back to ordinary pedals for the Winter and am regretting I didn't investigate the dual.option pedal more. I have cleats and Shimano shoes.

[hani]

It's all about personal preference Maeve
Plus one on trying shoes on, the width /fit varies by brand way too much
Shoes are worth an investment, now is good time for sales
Good luck hunting

[Mark Cannon]

Hi Maeve

Agree with all of the above, from personal experience I would go with 'Look' pedals - entry level ones are just fine.

Then with cleats you want to go with entry level again, I understand that these are colour coded and give you a bit of 'float' or 'give' so you won't feel too locked into the pedal. With look you want to go with red or grey colour cleats.

Shoes - again a nice comfortable pair of shoes, try on first for definite but you want some warmth as well for winter riding and comfortable as you will be wearing them for 2+ hours. No need to spend huge amounts of money on shoes.

You will get used to clipping in and out very quickly, much safer than those strap in pedals.

Might catch you on the beginner spin next weekend if you need further info.

Mark

[ellenmurphy]

Hi Maeve, seen as you mentioned budget, I would definitely recommend that you get tri speciifc bike shoes. They generally have a velcro strap for closing. They are much easier for getting in and out of when it comes to racing, and will help you have quick transitions. You can just get some bike shoe covers to keep them clean in Winter!

Once you get used to bike shoes & cleats, you will be surprised how quickly you get used to them & how much easier cycling up hills is.

Welcome to the club- Ellen

[cbigley]

This might help- or confuse you more (http://road.cc/171031)

[maevemasterson]

Thanks for all the help! Been into a few of the cycle shops and they have all said much the same, now to look for the bargins.... Hopefully I'll be out on the spins soon ! Maeve

[helenhh]

Maeve. I have the red Look ones and have them set to the "easiest to escape" setting. I have to admit that I spent the best part of 2 weeks cycling around in circles in the local park a few years ago before I hit the real road...