decathlon bikes,cleats and greetings

[daveno7]

hello all

i have a query and this is my first post on this forum..i am the proud owner of a decathlon sport 2 and i am wondering what would be the best type of pedals for it? i have never used cleats before and would like to know what to expect etc..

thank you

[buzz]

There are loads out there, get a set with adjustable tension if you can, easier release in the early days is beneficial. Better to get floating cleats (the bit that goes on the shoe) which will feel weird at first. Take care to get the cleats lined up - The rule of thumb is set the pedal axle to line up with the ball of the foot, and whilst sitting on the bike get a glamorous assistant to drop a plumb line from the back of your kneecap which should line up with the ball of your foot and the pedal axle. This sorts your saddle height and cleat position in one. A short ride will then allow to to adjust the 'toe in' which should be comfortable and avoid strain on your ankles feet and knees.
Oh. Be prepared to fall off in the most embarrassing place possible with the biggest audience around. This will happen when you have almost cracked it - You will forget you are wearing them, forget to clip out, fall off and look for a hole to hide in.......

[scm]

I think Looks give you the best clipless experience, but they're a bit impractical if you intend to walk any distance in them (where "any distance" is "more than a couple of paces" ). For ease of walking, I believe Shimano SPDs are the cleats of choice (though never used them myself - why spoil a good bike ride by putting your feet on the ground?).

[scm]

Oh. Be prepared to fall off in the most embarrassing place possible with the biggest audience around. This will happen when you have almost cracked it - You will forget you are wearing them, forget to clip out, fall off and look for a hole to hide in.......

Good advice here. A good tip is to practise clipping in and out while holding onto a friendly wall or fence, until you get the hang of it - then let go and enjoy the experience! And I've never (in 5 years so far) had a "clipless moment" resulting in a fall, so they're not mandatory, in spite of what others may say.

[thatwomanagain]

And I've never (in 5 years so far) had a "clipless moment" resulting in a fall, so they're not mandatory, in spite of what others may say.

I resisted cleats for about 5 years after watching husband repeatedly falling into the ditch when he first tried them out.
But I started using them just 18 months ago and now I wouldn't look back. I started off with some touring pedals- with Shimano SPDs- cleats one side, flat the other. At first I started with right foot cleated in with left foot resting on the flat bit - for ease of release, just in case. But I didn't need it at all. The cleats were so comfortable I soon progressed onto the double-sided SPDs - cleats set at loosest fit initially then tightened up a bit as I started pulling my feet out. I twist my foot, rather than pull up, to release the cleats. I wish I'd tried them years ago.I still haven't fallen off yet. And believe me, if anyone's capable of doing something embarrassing.... So you'll have no trouble at all.

[buzz]

Maybe it's just me that's done it when trying to look cool at busy traffic lights in Perth city centre on a Saturday afternoon then...... Cue uncontrollable laughter from shoppers and very red face from me.........!!

[daveno7]

thanks for the advice..will heed it well as i work away into the night

daveno7