Mountain bike SPD pedals

Soldato
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I've just got some new biking shoes but have realised they are for SPD pedals. So I'm deciding whether to change my pedals or return the shoes. I mostly do cross country, medium difficulty trails so I'm looking for pros and cons and possibly some pedal recommendations :)

MW
 
Get some lx or xt spuds, loosen them right off and ride somewhere familiar, the more you get used to clipping in and out the more you can tighten up and use them to your benefit - pulling as well as pushing..
 
Do you need to put your feet down a lot? maybe unexpectedly? if so i'd stick with flats. Going over at low speed won't hurt you but if the pedal doesn't unclip you can twist your ankle badly.

Horse poop.
I'm a flat pedal rider and its a doddle to unclip when I use the clips on occasion.

I just don;t use clips because I'm too duck-footed and can;t get a good cleat position, far enough back.
 
All of my bikes have clipless pedals on them, you soon get used to it. It quickly becomes second nature and you can get your feet down almost as quick as flats.
It will also take a little while to learn how to pedal properly. Applying pressure all the way around rather than just pushing down on it. That means you're faster because you can transfer more power but also has more benefits for MTbers:
-You dont get bounced off or slip off the pedals going over rough stuff.
-Pressure all the way round the pedal stroke = constant torque = much more traction on loose/muddy climbs.

if the pedal doesn't unclip you can twist your ankle badly.

No it wont.
 
Shimano Deore SPDs are very cheap, XT ones are better quality, both get the job done.
Once you have ridden with SPDs it is hard to go back to flat pedals for XC riding.

There is a fair chance you will capsize though until you get used to them - I did several times! :D

I once tried Time attacs, lol! I had to rest my shoulder against a wall to get out of them! Needless to say I sent them back.
 
I've just got some new biking shoes but have realised they are for SPD pedals. So I'm deciding whether to change my pedals or return the shoes. I mostly do cross country, medium difficulty trails so I'm looking for pros and cons and possibly some pedal recommendations :)

MW

The default choice for cheap pedals are the m520's http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/SearchResults.aspx?Search=m520 they are bullet proof but arn't the lightest and don't shed mud well.
 
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