bike shoes and pedals?

P

PAUL G

New member
Looking to buy my first set of pedals and road bike shoes. What should i look for? Do certain brands or styles of pedal fit with certain brands or styles of shoes? Are there different kinds of clip in pedals?
 
There are lots of pedal and shoe combinations. It seems to be what you want. The traditional road shoe uses a three screws to mount the cleat to the shoe, a design Look designed (see link below). You can't really walk with these attached to the shoes, but the system is very supportive on the bike. I have this type on my racing bike, and am happy with them. I also have a commuter bike, and I use Crank Brothers Candy C pedals and cleats (a 2 screw mounting system most often associated with mountain bikes but also used on road bikes). These I use with Shimano shoes. The good thing is that the cleats are recessed in the shoe so I can walk normally in them. Once you use either system, you will like them. The Candy C is easier to get used to. Be prepared to spend some time adjusting them, and proper bike fit at this point is critical to your knees not hurting.
 
There are many types of clip in pedals. You need to make sure the cleat's bolt pattern is compatible with the shoe you plan on buying. I would recommend speedplays for road use. Also, make sure that the shoe is mounted in the proper position and that you feet can clear the bike and the front wheel.
 
You have two basic types. SPD clips and shoes are more for mountain biking and have a recessed area in the sole so that it easier to walk around in. Road bike shoes will have exposed clips like the look and are harder to walk in. I use SPD pedals on all of my bikes just for the convenience and being able to walk in them. Serious road bikers will go with the road shoes because they are stiffer and liter.

http://www.caree.org/bike101cliplesspedals.htm
 
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