Clipless pedal (sometimes called “binding pedal”) is what holds your feet on pedals and improves the pedaling efficiency.
I put it on my bikes to ride a long distance.
This is when Tani-san and I joined Wonder Hopper a few years ago.
I installed MKS Solution on my favorite FRANCES bike.
It was the masterpiece pedal which doubles as a flat pedal and clipless pedal on the different side.
I wish we could have it once again…
This is when I participated in a brevet before. I use US-S on this bike. It’s a true clipless one.
Basically, there’re two different types for clipless pedals, “SPD” and “SPD-SL”.
(FYI, this is the way SHIMANO calls their products, so it doesn’t refer to all of clipless pedals in the market, but sometimes we use these words for instance.)
I mostly use “SPD” pedals since it’s easier to walk when I get off a bike.
Thanks to the recessed outsole, cleats (a harware to hold your feet on pedals) doesn’t hit the ground, so “SPD” has been used in the racing scene of MTB and Cyclocross.
It’s not only better for competitions, but also for our daily life since we stop to have a coffee or go into a restaurant for a break.
Some people use “SPD-SL” pedals for a brevet, but I prefer “SPD” to walk around easily.
Let’s move on to the main theme.
There’re so many brands which make clipless pedals, but I found I only use MKS ones these days.
MKS’s “separate binding system” allows you an easy step in and out.
I could feel it and it’s actually easier to use. It’s great for those who uses clipless pedals for the first time, and I like it since it doesn’t bother me when I get tired after riding miles and miles.
You don’t have to try it hard, so it’s also knee-friendly. I guess this system helped me a lot when I participated in a brevet for the first time in my life.
Also, US-S pedals rotate really smooth with sealed bearings.
I’d like you to feel the greatness of clipless pedals, and if you don’t like it to be too competitive, then MKS ones are the best options.
