Fear of clipless pedals: Here’s why you should overcome it!

​Many cyclists know the feeling: you see the sporty riders whizzing past in their smart road cycling shoes, whilst you’re out and about in trainers – purely out of caution. The fear of not being able to unclip in time, of falling over or of losing control in traffic stops many people from taking the plunge and switching to clipless shoes. Yet it is precisely this fear that means they miss out on a bit of riding enjoyment and efficiency that can take cycling to a whole new level.

Yet it’s perfectly normal to be afraid of clipless pedals. Almost everyone who now rides confidently with them clipped in has been in exactly that position at some point: feeling unsure, sceptical, and as though it was all far too complicated. And yes, the first few attempts do feel a bit strange. You might even fall over once or twice. You get back on your feet, have a laugh about it – and realise just how quickly the movements become second nature.

After all, clipless pedals offer something that trainers can never provide: a direct connection to the bike. Your pedalling becomes smoother, power transfer more efficient, and control more precise. You really notice the difference, particularly on longer rides or when cycling at a competitive pace. Many people even say that they feel safer with clipless pedals because their feet no longer slip and the bike feels more stable.

So the most important step isn’t actually clipping in and out – it’s overcoming your own uncertainty. If you take it slowly, practise on a quiet stretch of road and give yourself time, you’ll be surprised at how quickly your fear disappears. And just how much fun it is to suddenly feel at one with your bike.

​I still remember my first time very clearly. The first time I fell over with clipless pedals. I was on my way to work, stopped at a red light, and had unclipped early enough. And then I tipped over to the other side in slow motion. A small graze on my knee. My first thought was, ‘I hope nobody saw that’. – Sandra Schuberth, TOUR editor

​Are you still a bit wary of clipless pedals? Perhaps this article is just the nudge you need to give them a go. And for all of you who already ride with clipless pedals, why not share your stories of falls in the comments? Maybe that’ll help newcomers pluck up the courage to give them a go.