Clipless Safety

[PhilDawson8270]

Very often there are comments about clipless being dangerous due to being attached. Or people not feeling safe being attached to the bike.

Then the are various comments about performance, which I don't believe.

However, I did come across this video, which in my opinion. Does highlight the benefits of being clipped to the pedals (or toe straps)

View: https://youtu.be/oB4ZGCbGYHg

 

[Drago]

I don't think they're dangerous. It's an unpopular view but I think many folk move to them before their fundamental riding skills are up to the job, and that's what's dangerous. I've never had a whiff of a clipless moment, and many of the more experienced or more qualified riders I know haven't had a problem wither.

 

[glasgowcyclist]

Doesn't look like he's using any retention system, looks like his foot slipped off the pedals. Definitely an argument for cleats.

GC

 

[Profpointy]

Doesn't look like he's using any retention system, looks like his foot slipped off the pedals.

GC

I think that was the OP's point
(took me a minute to twig mind)

 

[glasgowcyclist]

I think that was the OP's point
(took me a minute to twig mind)

I realised that and added a bit to my post to clarify but you were too damn quick!

GC

 

[PhilDawson8270]

I think that was the OP's point
(took me a minute to twig mind)

That is correct, sentences often make more sense in my head than they do out loud

 

[Andrew_P]

When I came off the bike I disconnected from my pedals without trying nor thinking, clinging on to the hoods for dear life was another matter!

 

[Racing roadkill]

The scenario in the video, has happened to me before, albeit wind / rain assisted. Clipless makes it so much easier to 'hop' the bike about, if needs be. Also the advantages of not having to readjust your feet, every time you hit a sunken drain cover, bump, crack, or pothole, can't be emphasised enough, plus the 'real world' reduction in fatigue, on a long and / or fast ride, is unequivocal. Every time I hear someone , telling me "oooohh clipless riding, has been proven to be no more efficient / better, than riding flats" I just say that in that case, I expect all the pro teams will be switching to flats next year, before pointing out, that any test carried out on a treadmill / rollers, in a lab, isn't really valid, because treadmills / rollers, don't have pot holes, and there is no wind in a lab.

 

[MontyVeda]

Doesn't look like he's using any retention system, looks like his foot slipped off the pedals. Definitely an argument for cleats.

GC

I'd say it's an argument for better pedals, but not necessarily cleats (or straps).

I used toe-straps from the age of about 13-32 because i felt they were essential. Then i bought some flat pedals (because i liked to colour) and thoroughly intended to fit the straps to them... it was only when i realised that the design of the new pedals meant that my foot never ever slipped off, regardless of footwear or weather conditions that i decided that the straps were no longer needed. (plus, i liked not having to do that little clip-in faff any more)

 

[Profpointy]

I unclipped to go down a particularly rocky path, blatantly unsuitable for me touring-style bike - thinking I might fall off or have to put a foot down. although I got away with it, it was a big mistake - would have been far safer with my feet safely attached.

Fair enough those who don't like them, can't be arsed with special shoes or whatever, but arguing they're useless or dangerous is plain silly

 

[fossyant]

Best things since sliced bread. Go away you luddite. You know what happened to them.

 

[fossyant]

Don't ride a real fixed gear without retention. It will hurt.

Don't sprint for that gap without retention, you'll not get to it. And don't try a very steep hill either.

I ride clipless even on family bimbles

 

[fossyant]

There is also that Zen feeling too . If you don't get it then you aren't worthy

 

[Cannondale Lady]

I darent try them yet

 

[fossyant]

PS or a smelly mountain biker that uses flats.