Newbie, first time on road bike

[postman]

I am in Dundee mate.

Well that is your second question answered.What do i eat while i am out = Cake.

 

[AuroraSaab]

I was in the same position when I got my road bike last year. Had enough on dealing with riding a bike after 30 years to worry about cleats etc. I didn't need any help in falling off. I bought these (in black from Halfords) and have been happy with them. If you can bear white, they are pretty cheap:
https://www.bikeinn.com/bike/shimano-pedal-pd-t400wr-click-r/43311/p

 

[AuroraSaab]

I found the road bike saddle a bit harsh too, so swapped it for one that women seem to find a better fit. Haven't really tried it yet as I bought a mtb for the winter and also hurt my shoulder. In fact today was my first bike ride for months. If you fancy a new saddle, Planet X have a few on Sale:

https://www.planetx.co.uk/c/q/components/finishing-kit/saddles?sort=price-asc

 

[12boy]

What you need to be safe is muscle memory and practice starting and stopping. You need to be able to get your hands on the brakes quickly and come to a stop safely. I might spend some time on a bike path or deserted parking lot riding around getting used to braking and shifting without looking and the brakes and shifters. A little initial practice never hurts but an injury early on can put you off biking.

 

[oldwinger14]

Start out with flats. If not, you may find your self taking some unexpected falls and it may be enough to turn you sour on cycling.

 

[plastic_cyclist]

Well, I'm now 400+ miles into the Tricross and I have to say, once I got into the clipped feet, I haven't looked back.....cant ever imagine me switching back to non clipped pedals, its been a revelation !! I find them superb on the climbs when off the seat.

 

[SkipdiverJohn]

I find them superb on the climbs when off the seat.

If, like me, you spend 99.99% of your cycling time riding seated, they are going to make absolutely no difference whatsoever. The other 0.01% of the time I am standing to keep my weight off the saddle whilst going over a bump and not pedalling anyway.

 

[boydj]

If, like me, you spend 99.99% of your cycling time riding seated, they are going to make absolutely no difference whatsoever. The other 0.01% of the time I am standing to keep my weight off the saddle whilst going over a bump and not pedalling anyway.

I find that climbing out of the saddle is the only time that I actually pull up on the pedals. I do, though, appreciate the security and consistent contact with the pedals that comes with being clipped in. I use speedplays which allow my feet to find a natural position and a little bit of freedom to rotate if I change my position on the bike.