Topic: What type of pedals should I buy?

Dear Coach Phil,
I am new to cycling and just bought a new road bike. I am not sure what kind of pedals to buy. Should I get SPD pedals? Right now I am using the toe baskets, what are my options? Thanks
Sarah


Dear Sarah,

As a general rule I recommend road pedals for a road bike.  The terms �mountain� and �road� refer to the intended usage for those specific parts.  While the pedals can be interchanged easily, and functionally any clipless pedals will work there are many important differences that make the road pedal/ shoe a much wiser choice.

Support � Road pedal/ shoe combos are stiffer and wider than mountain bike pedals.  This allows for greater support of the major leg joints (ankle, hip, knee)

Power � Stiffness and a larger platform pedal translate to better and more efficient transfer of pedaling energy into driving the rear wheel.

Comfort � The stiffer the system and the more surface area you have to support yourself the better the comfort of the system through the reduction of hot spots, and the reduction of road vibration.

Adjustability � Road pedals/ shoes offer greater positioning possibilities, which allows for a more precise foot/ knee/ hip orientation.  The more accurate the position the less chance of injury.   

Weight � Road pedal/ shoe combinations tend to be much lighter.

Fit � Road Shoes tend to be easier to get into or out of with Triathlon specific shoes being the easiest to enter or exit.

Durability � Road pedals tend to last much longer.

As with all clipless pedal systems it is best to have someone qualified set them up for you to get the maximum benefits from them.  This involves positioning your cleats for fore aft position, cant, and angle as well as taking into account saddle position and relative knee placement.  Once everything is set up correctly it will be very easy to get into and out of your pedal system.  If you have had you bike fit and are just adding new clipless pedals the adjustments to your position should be very minor, however if you have not been properly fit before then you should consider doing so at the time of pedal installation to make sure you are optimizing your power, efficiency, and investment.

If you have any further questions or would like to schedule a fit fill out a form under "Bike Fit" and send me an e-mail.