Rode to the brewery and didn't fall over. Didn't understand what the fuss was and why everyone fell over once with them. Until the next day, when I fell over. At a stop light. Standing still. In front of a line of traffic. Ego smashed.
Like nearly everyone, my first time was back when I was 18 and it was all new to me (we're talking it was around 1994 and it was sort of a novelty back then). Obviously, at the first traffic lights I dropped dead on the tarmac. It was very embarrasing indeed, but you learn to unclip faster! :)
As someone who is about to get their first "proper" bike, it's so useful to see videos like this explaining how to do things with a newbie in (almost) realtime, and which explain basic concepts in a user-friendly way. My cyclist friends rave about cycling and I've really wanted to get into it for a while but, like listening to someone talk about something they love but struggle to contain their excitement, it's hard not to feel a little daunted by jargon. So many videos out there are not designed to introduce people to a sport, so thank you for making these types of videos which will seem overly basic to more experienced cyclists!
Finally a video that actually teaches someone how to use clipless pedals. Most just show people that already know how demonstrating the use. Not the same thing. Where was this video when I got mine several months ago. ;) I had a really tough time starting out on clipless pedals. I fell several times - once pretty badly. I totally lost confidence and switched back to flats. Last week, I got a local cycling instructor to guide me through. That made all the difference for me. When I unclip right - he has me locking my left leg at the bottom of the stroke and unclipping the right at the top of the stroke. That made all the difference for me. Great job on the video......
Perfect timing!!! I just came back from my 1st ride with clipless. I fell 4 TIMES!!! most embarrassing was in a red light for both pedestrians and bikes. I'd cliped the left side and the right side was free. while crossing, someone crossed infront of me and i'd to brake hard, lost balance and fell on the cliped side in the middle of the crossing!!! The best thing everyone rushed to help me up. Thanks to everyone who helped. You can imagine , it was quit a scene plus traffic had to stop too. Now my knees and elbows are bruised.
My first experience with clipless pedals was just 2 days ago. Just like Lorraine I had the benefit of my husband to coach me. We did everything almost exactly as was done in this video. I fell a few times but after seeing the success story of Lorraine getting on the road at the end, I’m inspired to keep trying. Thanks for the great videos ☺️
I always recommend when learning, always teach the newbie to hold a brake while mounting the bike. This places them in control of the bike and it does not then roll forward or backwards on them.
I was taught by the person selling me my cleats that to unclip, just imagine you are snuffing out a cigarette butt with the front of your foot. Worked for me!
She's a natural Dan. And yes, helps s lot to be taught be a former pro cyclist. She made it look too easy actually. Good teacher, excellent student. Keep it up!
Can we get more of the family side of cycling? Great to hear Dan started his son in cycling at a young age, and it would make an awesome video covering the how to turn cycling into family fun. This topic speaks to the majority of cyclists out there.
Man I wish I got into cycling as young as Dan's son! I had a bike obviously but I never had any sort've exposure to the racing / athleticism side of it. I saw BMX and just thought meh not for me.
The "how" is pretty important - I had a cycling enthusiast grandfather who severely put me off cycling for 12 years before I rediscovered it on my own.
Top tip: if you have pedals that are flat on one side and clipless on the other, try twisting your foot as if to release the cleats even when you’re using the flats with normal shoes. It will help make it muscle memory!
All athletes should do it when they can, it reminds us that they're regular folk. I think personality cults built around celebrities, athletes and politicians are a real problem.
I find it easier to unclip when the pedal has just passed 6 o'clock, this also keeps the clipped-in foot in a position to push off again. Also the instinct when new to these pedals can be to pull the foot up while unclipping - especially if stopping unexpectedly, and this can make it more difficult to unclip - a useful thing to practice is pushing the heel down as you twist out.
I once replaced my pedals but forgot to ease off the tension and found myself ‘locked’ to my bike. I had to slowly ride next to a bush and fall against it then undo my shoes and exit in socks!
Just recently went clipless. My advice is to practice different stopping scenarios at stop signs in your community. I found that I stopped much differently at actual signs than I did in the park where I practiced. Today I practiced rolling stops with the clipless. Glad I was in practice mode, cause I rolled into my stop, unclipped left foot, began turning right, and was about to clip back in when a car came barrelling down the road, too fast. I had to quickly stop, but since my weight was to the right (from the right turn) and only my left was unclipped, I fell right over onto the pavement. That gave me even more to practice. Gotta make the twist my first natural instinct, as opposed to a pull.
Clipless pedals are fine if you know you have stop but if you have to stop unexpectedly you wont be able to get your foot out in time and will fall, thats why Ive abandoned them as they are not fit for purpose
My introduction to clipless pedals was spinning classes so by the time I took to the road I'd already done quite a few hours in the shoes. Was a nice way to get used to the action without worrying about falling over.
Kudo's to Dan, teaching spouses sporting techniques can be tough. I appreciate his approach at a "true beginner" and not taking anything for granted. Laugh's I think Dan is more nervous than Lorraine. Probably b/c he's knows what's at stake if this doesn't go well.
I first went to clipless pedals for the first time when I was 57. I did the whole practice in the trainer thing and was feeling pretty good about getting in and out. But in the very first ride, and the very first stop sign I came to, I fell before getting my foot unclipped. So I learned about planning ahead and unclipping before you need to stop. Gravity is a good teacher. Since then (8 years at this point) I've only had two other falls. One was when I was expecting to go through a traffic light, but it turned just before I got into the intersection. The second was on a steep, out of the saddle climb, when my back wheel hit some moss and I instantly lost forward movement. And I busted my pinky in the fall (and I didn't even know until the ride was over and noticed it was at a bit of a wonky angle). But I still use them. I figure each fall has brought some additional learning. So from this point on, WCGW?
Sadly, completely unnecessary damage sustained. I really don't understand clipless pedals. You risk a fall, you need to wear a specific set of shoes, those shoes are also incredibly uncomfortable to walk on while not on the bike... Why o why would you want such complications to begin with. :)
@@danielt91 it allows you to exert force on the pedals up stroke increasing your efficiency, it’s not for everyone but there good for getting that extra squeeze of performance
She’s a trooper, I was really nervous for her. With all the times I messed up and fell on asphalt with witnesses. She’s much more coordinated!! Wouhou!!
Bravo! Great video. One thing that you did briefly mention is that one needs to get out of the saddle before a total stop so as to be able to step easily off the bike. This is a new concept to new riders who want to put a foot out, but the ground is further away than anticipated.
I think that it is important to know that you can cycle across an intersection with one leg if you have to. Looking down at the pedal crossing a city intersection may not be very safe, especially if you are also turning at the intersection. Dan did mention being in the right gear, but you could perhaps emphasize how important this will be for an uphill start, and the planning required to avoid stopping in a gear that you might not be able to start up in.
I don't use clipless pedals for this reason. As much as I like the benefits of consistency from them. I can't get over how uncomfortable and unsafe they feel compared to standard pedals. I used clipless for about 2 years and never quite got used to them. Just my thoughts.
Just got my first clipless pedals and have watched this video three times because I'm so nervous. Thank Lorraine for being such a willing participant, seeing her nervous and then crushing it makes me feel better. Headed to the park this evening to give it a go!
Easily my favorite GCN of all time! Great work, Dan and family. For the record- coaching your partner in any sport is nearly always a Bodge, yet you seemed to score a Hack with Lorrainne!
Well, I wish this video had been around 25 years ago when I took my newly equipped with Look pedals, never tested road bike on a 100 km Gran Fondo. 99.5 km in, we had to stop at a service station and sure enough, I plopped right over. Kudos to GCN for putting this type of content together to help new cyclists out!
Great vid for beginners. I always teach beginners to unclip when in the pedal is in the down or 6 o’clock position. There’s much more leverage and makes it easier to twist your ankle outward. Good stuff.
I appreciate this video...I tried clipless pedals without instruction or knowledge and crashed twice on pavement...It has taken alot to try again. Your instruction is helping me.
I’ve tried almost every major clipless manufacturer. Because of a previous knee injury I finally had to settle on Egg Beaters (road pedals). They are the only ones that give me the proper float to avoid or reduce pain on long rides. The bottom line is sometimes you need to experiment to find out what works best for you. Your wife got the hang of it quite quickly! Kudos!
Cheers to Lorraine for being a good sport about all of that. I think it was a great idea to produce the video with somebody who genuinely was new to clipless pedals. The only thing I would have liked to see/hear would be Lorraine's thoughts on riding with the new pedals, especially whether she finds them comfortable and whether they seem to help in terms of power.
Alexander Bell except for that part at the beginning that says paid advertising, so they likely are being “forced” to make them so they can actually make money and keep providing viewers with free content
jeremyb1975 For the record guys, no one is forcing us to make this video. But if you watch and wait, you’ll see that many thousands of people will watch it, leading us to conclude that creating it has a value. It might not be relevant to you, but to all the new cyclists out there, hopefully it will be. We are always, always, open to suggestions for content so please if there’s something you’d like us to make, just let us know.
@@simonrichardson5259 I get people getting tired off the clipless videos but I think the presentation of the information differed enough that a new cyclist might be able to learn better from one than the other making the new video worth it to produce
Top marks to Dan for taking on the challenge of "teaching" your wife - well - anything really! Did exactly the same thing for my wife last week, daren't call it teaching her tho. We opted for mtb pedals coz they are double sided and also she will be able to walk relatively normally in the shoes off the bike. Desperate not to disrupt the hard earned confidence already gained on the bike so went through the same steps using a trainer first but then went out on the road locally then a 36 mile ride into the local hills. All I need to do now is to get her to stop dismounting to the right - into the traffic!
Wish I had watched this video sooner. I went out Monday evening on my new road bike as a beginner and fell off from not being able to clip out in time. The park is a great idea 👍
Well done Mrs Dan ... this has been my nemesis (I can be a bit nervy on the roads because of this) .... but I will persevere bravo! Any more Mrs Dan videos.... nice for us beginners to see ‘beginners develop’
The only comment that I would add is sometimes it's useful to apply the brakes when clipping in your first foot. I find that the pressure needed to clip in will give my bike some momentum. Enjoyed the video though!
I use MTB pedals always on my road bikes - Crank Brothers egg beaters. They're light, with 4 sides to clip in, clear well, and you get to use MTB shoes. It works; this year I won my age group at the 70.3 world championships, so not much of a disadvantage on the road.
Have been researching on how to get into cycling by and taking the right steps, this page has been so informative! Thank you for the great content and well explained videos
I returned to cycling after a 30 year break and went straight to Look clipless pedals. Having used toe-clips and straps I found clipless to be so much better - you're really connected to the bike and the whole pedalling experience is far superior. BTW, the insistence that you are bound to fall over is rubbish - I've never had any problem unclipping, or overbalancing, track stands are quite useful while unclipping!
Great video! My very first road bike is getting delivered tomorrow and I’m starting with universal pedals since I’ll be commuting around town as well. But I did want to learn how to use clipless pedals from the beginning. I’m feeling much more confident about how to get started. Thank you to your wife for showing it from a beginners perspective!
My hint - regularly check the screws on your cleats, especially if you use mountain bike pedals with only two screws. I had been riding for a few years with clipless pedals and then one day while riding home from work I came to a stop light. I slowed down, twisted my right shoe and it didn't unclip, it just pivoted as one of the screws from my cleat had come out. It was able to just spin freely and didn't come free.. Once I landed on the road, I had to take off my shoe to get my foot away from the bike and get off the road... All while listening to the laughter from the cars behind me. Luckily all that was hurt was my pride, but I now routinely check my screws on all my bike shoes.
This was so helpful for me to watch before my first time (nervously) clipping on to a road bike. It gave me the boost of confidence I needed to get out there and try, and I had a great experience. Thanks so much, Dan & Lorraine!
That’s because the Yanks changed it to suit their need to not shoot across the man with reigns on a wagon. It was based originally on the Horse, mount/dismount, still is. Mass production of Ford cars followed with LHD, copied from wagons and exports were that way which many accepted. But still mount and dismount a Horse the correct way.
@@tony.775 Not quite true. America adopted it because Napoleon did, and Napoleon did specifically to be anti-British in an absurdly petty and disruptive way that almost caused a collapse of the urban teamster infrastructure in europe. Mass production of American cars is why it was adopted in most of the world though.
AFAIK most of the Europe drives on the right because of WW2, where it was changed under occupation. And driving/riding on the left originated from riding a horse and most people being right handed, thus from middle ages, if you needed to use your sword, you would pass your target from the left side. Same historical reason why man should walk on the right side of a woman, so he can easily draw his sword to protect her.
I am about to buy these pedals, so this video comes in very handy, especially how to practice before going out on a regular ride. I will inform how it went. Thanks!
From my experience I’d suggest 2 bolt (SPD/mountain bike) cleats as your first ever set as they are easier to walk in, and slightly easier to clip in/out of - instilling greater confidence, earlier! Once you’re confident you can move on, and you’re less likely to experience one of those embarrassing moments!
Hi Shaun - Im just a novice rider looking to try clipless for my road bike. Can you recommend the hybrid pedals - Shimano that have a flat side and then a x2 hole type clip? They seem to be suitable for both road and MTB type use ? You suggested the x2 hole type for new to clipless - any advice appreciated. Thanks everybody
@@robindavies9081 I used those hybrid pedals for years on my commuter. To be honest I didn't use the flat side very often (loved clipless too much), but having the choice is great especially if you only want to use clipless for longer rides but still use your bike for short trips with trainers. The only downside is they are heavier, but that's not something everyone worries about. You just have to get used to making sure you're using the right side of the pedal (depending on your footwear) every time you set off from a stop (similar to SPD-SL/3 bolt) - not a deal breaker but something to think about, whereas SPD pedals are dual sided. The hybrid pedals are ideal for a more casual experience.
@@shaunmudd thankyou. Ill give them a go. Saw a lot of advice to try the mtb clip ins first so this is perfect for me at this point. Cheers for coming back with some thoughts. ITS Appreciated so much . Robin
Great video as I am using clip pedals for the first time. I went out the other to our local footy ground and tried the clip on's. Great idea to do on soft ground. I did fall once but after 30mins it smooth. I could stop and take off my foot and get ready to go again. I rode home with clips on and felt really good. As Melbourne is not good at the moment so have stay indoors. Thanks again for the video.
Excellent information, I wish I had watched this video about 10 years ago when I got my first road bike. Had a nasty fall when I couldn’t get Un clipped. I now have a Peloton Bike + and have noticed that a LOT of owners don’t understand how their clip pedals work and can’t get their shoes Un clipped! Everyone at Peloton should make these videos and this website available to clients! I just learned about degrees of ‘Slop’, fantastic.
Dan's comment about how kids find it easier to learn to clip in is spot on. One Sunday I returned from a ride to find that my 12 year old had gotten a old pair of my shoes and my spare bike and figured it out on his own. He was zipping up and down the street in front of the house. I never had to coach him on it at all. Of course he has been forced to watch a LOT of GCN videos over the years.
Turned road cyclist in the 80's after running for years. Best decision ever! It is not a cheap sport. Atlanta had a robust cycling community with many ride choices. Was doing 200 miles a week started with cleats ended up with clipless -was sooo much better. HOWEVER YOU MUST EXPECT TO FALL OVER AT LEAST ONCE WHEN GETTING USED TO THEM. YES IN FRONT OF THE PACK. 🙈 Hello from sunny and warm St. Petersburg, Florida.
I just came here to say I just finally got my first pair of clipless, took the bike out in the neighborhood for a few laps around the block to get used to them for when I actually go riding the next day or so. Immediately fell standing in place trying to clip. I did it!
Nearly 40, got my first proper road bike arriving soon. Have to admit I am nervous about these pedals too. Good to see videos like this that do feel welcoming and not stupid.
I've been cycling for over 40 years but I still use double sided clipless pedals on both my road bikes. Where I live there are lots of steep narrow country lanes where you often have to stop for passing cars, lorries and tractors etc, and on the housing estate where I live you have roundabouts on hills. Using road pedals was rather nerve racking trying to clip in immediately when pushing off on a hill sometimes in heavy traffic. I went back to double sided, now I can clip in immediately in any situation. There's not a huge difference in their performance compared to road pedals, they are still very efficient, and my nerves are in one piece, LOL.
This video was really helpful! I competed in triathlon a million years ago but when I left the sport in 2012, I left cycling as well. Just this year I started to get back into cycling. I got clipless pedals because I thought I'd remember how to use them. NOPE! I fell MULTIPLE times on the road. It was terrifying, mortifying, and painful. I was too scared to use them so I took them off. Now I'm motivated to put them back on and try again...only this time I'll find a grassy park!
Just tried yesterday for the first time, prior to it carefully studied the theory and watched many videos, including this one. Tried at home and finally went out: prior to the first stop unlocked both sides and almost fell just because of being confused to which side to step, then decided that better to unlock only one side first and on the second stop I fell off right away to the opposite side due to the lost balance, too late unclipping on slow speed. After all mistakes were collected, it started to be fine, I feel like the real experience is better gained through the typical failures. Still need to practice, but confidence is slowly coming.
I’ve seen so many of GCN videos on clipless pedals and this was truly one of them...I mean one of the best. I use mountain bike shoes and cleats on my road bike and this video makes me want switch to road.
Very useful indeed for beginners! By the way, we call them "automatic pedals" in Spain, which sounds a bit more coherent with its real purpose, I guess.
How was your first experience with clipless pedals? Let us know in the comments below!
Very sore
Still on flats but will try them in a few months
Rode to the brewery and didn't fall over. Didn't understand what the fuss was and why everyone fell over once with them. Until the next day, when I fell over. At a stop light. Standing still. In front of a line of traffic. Ego smashed.
Like nearly everyone, my first time was back when I was 18 and it was all new to me (we're talking it was around 1994 and it was sort of a novelty back then). Obviously, at the first traffic lights I dropped dead on the tarmac. It was very embarrasing indeed, but you learn to unclip faster! :)
@@thevenomguy1215 Good luck!
She’s flexing on us with the supreme castelli collab
Glad somebody else noticed that.
Murilo Loffi it’s a wayyyy over priced streetwrar brand - Supreme. Don’t know about the other brand
Hypebeast Cycling in the making 😂
Marcel Gomes Jr. It’s not overpriced if you’re buying retail lol???
Facts
As someone who is about to get their first "proper" bike, it's so useful to see videos like this explaining how to do things with a newbie in (almost) realtime, and which explain basic concepts in a user-friendly way.
My cyclist friends rave about cycling and I've really wanted to get into it for a while but, like listening to someone talk about something they love but struggle to contain their excitement, it's hard not to feel a little daunted by jargon. So many videos out there are not designed to introduce people to a sport, so thank you for making these types of videos which will seem overly basic to more experienced cyclists!
agree, very helpful videos for us beginners :)
Same
Dan “there is no traffic in the park” *5 sec later a tractor drives by*
Cameo by Connor's brother-in-law Nigel?
its actually 12 seconds hahahahahahaha
Haha 😂Red tractor guy.
@@spherelance72 Underrated comment.
We need more Nigel!
True
Been riding clipless for years. Not sure why I watched this entire video.
The only reason I have a bike to ride about 2 miles to my gf’s house. Not sure why I watched this entire video either...
Cause deep down we all hope to see sb tip over. Well my disappointment is immeasurable and my day is ruined.
To know if you really using it in correct way.
because she's pretty and has a nice smile
lucky guy there
I'm never going to use clipless pedals. Not sure why I even started watching this video.
Finally a video that actually teaches someone how to use clipless pedals. Most just show people that already know how demonstrating the use. Not the same thing. Where was this video when I got mine several months ago. ;) I had a really tough time starting out on clipless pedals. I fell several times - once pretty badly. I totally lost confidence and switched back to flats. Last week, I got a local cycling instructor to guide me through. That made all the difference for me. When I unclip right - he has me locking my left leg at the bottom of the stroke and unclipping the right at the top of the stroke. That made all the difference for me. Great job on the video......
Perfect timing!!! I just came back from my 1st ride with clipless. I fell 4 TIMES!!! most embarrassing was in a red light for both pedestrians and bikes. I'd cliped the left side and the right side was free. while crossing, someone crossed infront of me and i'd to brake hard, lost balance and fell on the cliped side in the middle of the crossing!!! The best thing everyone rushed to help me up. Thanks to everyone who helped. You can imagine , it was quit a scene plus traffic had to stop too. Now my knees and elbows are bruised.
no shame, we've all been there haha
It's a right of passage :) but don't give up! The more you ride, the better you'll get.
I think something we've learned from Nigel and Lorraine is that the GCN staff have wonderful family members who are willing to humor them.
I guess we are one big family then ;)
My first experience with clipless pedals was just 2 days ago. Just like Lorraine I had the benefit of my husband to coach me. We did everything almost exactly as was done in this video. I fell a few times but after seeing the success story of Lorraine getting on the road at the end, I’m inspired to keep trying. Thanks for the great videos ☺️
Gcn should've get matt as the guest star, nevertheless great tips for beginner
I always recommend when learning, always teach the newbie to hold a brake while mounting the bike. This places them in control of the bike and it does not then roll forward or backwards on them.
I was taught by the person selling me my cleats that to unclip, just imagine you are snuffing out a cigarette butt with the front of your foot. Worked for me!
Clarity needed: Bare foot or with a shoe?
😆
Dan, you have a lovely family. We offer a heart felt thank you to them for helping us learn a new skill while "sheltering in place."
She's a natural Dan. And yes, helps s lot to be taught be a former pro cyclist. She made it look too easy actually. Good teacher, excellent student.
Keep it up!
Can we get more of the family side of cycling? Great to hear Dan started his son in cycling at a young age, and it would make an awesome video covering the how to turn cycling into family fun. This topic speaks to the majority of cyclists out there.
Man I wish I got into cycling as young as Dan's son!
I had a bike obviously but I never had any sort've exposure to the racing / athleticism side of it. I saw BMX and just thought meh not for me.
@@matthewmeehan7817 Same here! Bought myself and learned to cycle at 17. A year later and I wish I had known about the wonders earlier.
The "how" is pretty important - I had a cycling enthusiast grandfather who severely put me off cycling for 12 years before I rediscovered it on my own.
Top tip: if you have pedals that are flat on one side and clipless on the other, try twisting your foot as if to release the cleats even when you’re using the flats with normal shoes. It will help make it muscle memory!
That was truly adorable! It reminded me doing the same with my mother... who started cycling at the age of 67!
Thanks for that comment. I just retired, I'm 63, and getting back on a bike since I started driving a car! 46 years ago! I now know I'm not alone!
Dan: Go to the park - there's no traffic!
Tractor in the background: WEEEEEEEEE!
My life: Cycling for more than 20 years, have used literally all pedal systems, and still watched this video.
How'd you like the old clips+straps+slotted cleats system?
Just purchased my first set of clip less pedals so this was a perfect timed video. Much appreciated
Glad we could help, Thomas! Good luck!
Same here. They're due in Friday. Love it.
Same here. I have one clipless and one flat pedal at the moment. I never knew you needed to twist!!
same here
Same, I tried them out on my morning ride and thankfully didn’t fall!
I am so thankful that you found a person who had genuinely never used it before (and wasn't just acting) to demo this for us. Cheers!
Love having family as guests! Hoping to see more! Ps. Gave more confidence to try out clipless and planning on getting some soon. Cheers!
Glad you enjoyed the video, Joshua! Thanks for the support.
All athletes should do it when they can, it reminds us that they're regular folk. I think personality cults built around celebrities, athletes and politicians are a real problem.
I find it easier to unclip when the pedal has just passed 6 o'clock, this also keeps the clipped-in foot in a position to push off again. Also the instinct when new to these pedals can be to pull the foot up while unclipping - especially if stopping unexpectedly, and this can make it more difficult to unclip - a useful thing to practice is pushing the heel down as you twist out.
Thx! You’re right. Just tried them outside for the first time today.
Good old memories when I started using SPD pedals. Several bushes along the cycling road still preserved my shape... 😅
Haha - safe to say we've all been there!
I‘ve certainly been there, too. Great adrenaline shots when you slowly tilt over…
I once replaced my pedals but forgot to ease off the tension and found myself ‘locked’ to my bike. I had to slowly ride next to a bush and fall against it then undo my shoes and exit in socks!
that's a detail that they should mention in the vid
@@kpflugshaupt That moment when you know EXACTLY what you've done wrong . . . but it's simply too late to change course.
Just recently went clipless. My advice is to practice different stopping scenarios at stop signs in your community. I found that I stopped much differently at actual signs than I did in the park where I practiced.
Today I practiced rolling stops with the clipless. Glad I was in practice mode, cause I rolled into my stop, unclipped left foot, began turning right, and was about to clip back in when a car came barrelling down the road, too fast. I had to quickly stop, but since my weight was to the right (from the right turn) and only my left was unclipped, I fell right over onto the pavement. That gave me even more to practice. Gotta make the twist my first natural instinct, as opposed to a pull.
Clipless pedals are fine if you know you have stop but if you have to stop unexpectedly you wont be able to get your foot out in time and will fall, thats why Ive abandoned them as they are not fit for purpose
awkward when Dans wife is already better a clipping in than Matt ever was lol
Get Matt back for a clip less pedal contest with Lorraine
I thought he was going to mention it haha
Well, Dan did put a small twig in Matt's pedal in one video so it was impossible for Matt to clip in.
@@deanerasmus3725Or Nigel vs. Lorraine.
@@tquindt1 Who's Nigel? Do you mean Brotherinlawnigel?
My introduction to clipless pedals was spinning classes so by the time I took to the road I'd already done quite a few hours in the shoes. Was a nice way to get used to the action without worrying about falling over.
Going to practice on my Keiser M3i a lot.
Kudo's to Dan, teaching spouses sporting techniques can be tough. I appreciate his approach at a "true beginner" and not taking anything for granted. Laugh's I think Dan is more nervous than Lorraine. Probably b/c he's knows what's at stake if this doesn't go well.
GCN subscriber for 5 years. It's lovely to finally meet your beautiful family Lloydie
I first went to clipless pedals for the first time when I was 57. I did the whole practice in the trainer thing and was feeling pretty good about getting in and out. But in the very first ride, and the very first stop sign I came to, I fell before getting my foot unclipped. So I learned about planning ahead and unclipping before you need to stop. Gravity is a good teacher. Since then (8 years at this point) I've only had two other falls. One was when I was expecting to go through a traffic light, but it turned just before I got into the intersection. The second was on a steep, out of the saddle climb, when my back wheel hit some moss and I instantly lost forward movement. And I busted my pinky in the fall (and I didn't even know until the ride was over and noticed it was at a bit of a wonky angle). But I still use them. I figure each fall has brought some additional learning. So from this point on, WCGW?
Sadly, completely unnecessary damage sustained. I really don't understand clipless pedals. You risk a fall, you need to wear a specific set of shoes, those shoes are also incredibly uncomfortable to walk on while not on the bike... Why o why would you want such complications to begin with. :)
@@danielt91 it allows you to exert force on the pedals up stroke increasing your efficiency, it’s not for everyone but there good for getting that extra squeeze of performance
She’s a trooper, I was really nervous for her. With all the times I messed up and fell on asphalt with witnesses. She’s much more coordinated!! Wouhou!!
Bravo! Great video. One thing that you did briefly mention is that one needs to get out of the saddle before a total stop so as to be able to step easily off the bike. This is a new concept to new riders who want to put a foot out, but the ground is further away than anticipated.
I love this more chill style video btw, feels natural
I think that it is important to know that you can cycle across an intersection with one leg if you have to. Looking down at the pedal crossing a city intersection may not be very safe, especially if you are also turning at the intersection. Dan did mention being in the right gear, but you could perhaps emphasize how important this will be for an uphill start, and the planning required to avoid stopping in a gear that you might not be able to start up in.
I don't use clipless pedals for this reason. As much as I like the benefits of consistency from them. I can't get over how uncomfortable and unsafe they feel compared to standard pedals. I used clipless for about 2 years and never quite got used to them. Just my thoughts.
When i just started to watch the video, the doorbell just rang and my new pedals arrived and very good tips.
Perfect timing!
Just got my first clipless pedals and have watched this video three times because I'm so nervous. Thank Lorraine for being such a willing participant, seeing her nervous and then crushing it makes me feel better. Headed to the park this evening to give it a go!
Easily my favorite GCN of all time! Great work, Dan and family. For the record- coaching your partner in any sport is nearly always a Bodge, yet you seemed to score a Hack with Lorrainne!
Well, I wish this video had been around 25 years ago when I took my newly equipped with Look pedals, never tested road bike on a 100 km Gran Fondo. 99.5 km in, we had to stop at a service station and sure enough, I plopped right over. Kudos to GCN for putting this type of content together to help new cyclists out!
Lorraine , I hear top athletes aren't good coaches. Yeah Dan you wife threw you under the bus , LOL .
I've watched this video a few times, every time can't help but smile. Great Job Dan! Your family chemistry is awesome, super encouraging.
Great vid for beginners. I always teach beginners to unclip when in the pedal is in the down or 6 o’clock position. There’s much more leverage and makes it easier to twist your ankle outward. Good stuff.
00+
00+
one of the most clear, simple and concise videos on the topic - nice touches of humour without being corny too
Slightly amazed that Dan’s wife isn’t already a cyclist.
Especially since he was on the Cervelo test team 😂
Not that surprising...
Maybe she is now
I appreciate this video...I tried clipless pedals without instruction or knowledge and crashed twice on pavement...It has taken alot to try again. Your instruction is helping me.
Dan: Babe, wear THIS Jersey tomorrow!
Loraine: THAT?!?
branding up though
Just checked... this may be the most expensive cycle jersey of all time!!
@@dav58 Jeez!!! You're not wrong! Just found one going for £199.95 on EBay - USED!!!!
Robert R GCN is paying their presenters well!
@@dav58 Not anymore, rapha x palace jerseys should be more expensive now.
I’ve tried almost every major clipless manufacturer. Because of a previous knee injury I finally had to settle on Egg Beaters (road pedals). They are the only ones that give me the proper float to avoid or reduce pain on long rides. The bottom line is sometimes you need to experiment to find out what works best for you. Your wife got the hang of it quite quickly! Kudos!
2 minutes into the video and Dan is in a grandad chair! Brilliant
Love the cute banter between you two
Cheers to Lorraine for being a good sport about all of that. I think it was a great idea to produce the video with somebody who genuinely was new to clipless pedals. The only thing I would have liked to see/hear would be Lorraine's thoughts on riding with the new pedals, especially whether she finds them comfortable and whether they seem to help in terms of power.
One of the best tutorial on clipless pedals for beginners. Love it.
Aaaaaa yes - the yearly GCN clipless pedals video.
Nobody's forcing you to watch
@@matthewlewis2072 Nobody is forcing them to make another one
Alexander Bell except for that part at the beginning that says paid advertising, so they likely are being “forced” to make them so they can actually make money and keep providing viewers with free content
jeremyb1975 For the record guys, no one is forcing us to make this video. But if you watch and wait, you’ll see that many thousands of people will watch it, leading us to conclude that creating it has a value. It might not be relevant to you, but to all the new cyclists out there, hopefully it will be.
We are always, always, open to suggestions for content so please if there’s something you’d like us to make, just let us know.
@@simonrichardson5259 I get people getting tired off the clipless videos but I think the presentation of the information differed enough that a new cyclist might be able to learn better from one than the other making the new video worth it to produce
Top marks to Dan for taking on the challenge of "teaching" your wife - well - anything really! Did exactly the same thing for my wife last week, daren't call it teaching her tho. We opted for mtb pedals coz they are double sided and also she will be able to walk relatively normally in the shoes off the bike. Desperate not to disrupt the hard earned confidence already gained on the bike so went through the same steps using a trainer first but then went out on the road locally then a 36 mile ride into the local hills. All I need to do now is to get her to stop dismounting to the right - into the traffic!
Wish I had watched this video sooner. I went out Monday evening on my new road bike as a beginner and fell off from not being able to clip out in time. The park is a great idea 👍
Everybody does and the park is a great idea.
Well done Mrs Dan ... this has been my nemesis (I can be a bit nervy on the roads because of this) .... but I will persevere bravo! Any more Mrs Dan videos.... nice for us beginners to see ‘beginners develop’
The only comment that I would add is sometimes it's useful to apply the brakes when clipping in your first foot. I find that the pressure needed to clip in will give my bike some momentum. Enjoyed the video though!
I use MTB pedals always on my road bikes - Crank Brothers egg beaters. They're light, with 4 sides to clip in, clear well, and you get to use MTB shoes. It works; this year I won my age group at the 70.3 world championships, so not much of a disadvantage on the road.
Any chance we can have a similar review of flat pedals and proper cycling shoes for flat pedals?
Have been researching on how to get into cycling by and taking the right steps, this page has been so informative! Thank you for the great content and well explained videos
Ffs buy bike get on bike ride bike..
There you’re sorted
The only thing i think is hard about them is the confusing name
Yes 😆
You clip in on your clipless pedals...🤷
Exactly! IMHO "strapless pedals" sounds way more logical...
In Dutch we call them clickpedals. But I did fall over like 3 4 times in my first year.
@@ytwos1 hoi Nederlander hoe is et
@@ytwos1 same in Denmark - clickpedals...
Used spuds for about 15yrs on mountain bike....then went back to basics....loving it!
Still getting great mileage all these years, the Boss missing his stunt pad.
It really is timeless, isn't it.
Right up there with "Lasty shocked at price of new bike" clip.
@@gcn um don't you mean, innit
I returned to cycling after a 30 year break and went straight to Look clipless pedals. Having used toe-clips and straps I found clipless to be so much better - you're really connected to the bike and the whole pedalling experience is far superior. BTW, the insistence that you are bound to fall over is rubbish - I've never had any problem unclipping, or overbalancing, track stands are quite useful while unclipping!
Can Lorraine now teach Matt Stephens how to use clipless pedals?!
I was scanning for the inevitable Matt Stephens comment. I hope someone sent a link to this video to him. ;)
Great video! My very first road bike is getting delivered tomorrow and I’m starting with universal pedals since I’ll be commuting around town as well. But I did want to learn how to use clipless pedals from the beginning. I’m feeling much more confident about how to get started. Thank you to your wife for showing it from a beginners perspective!
My hint - regularly check the screws on your cleats, especially if you use mountain bike pedals with only two screws. I had been riding for a few years with clipless pedals and then one day while riding home from work I came to a stop light. I slowed down, twisted my right shoe and it didn't unclip, it just pivoted as one of the screws from my cleat had come out. It was able to just spin freely and didn't come free..
Once I landed on the road, I had to take off my shoe to get my foot away from the bike and get off the road... All while listening to the laughter from the cars behind me. Luckily all that was hurt was my pride, but I now routinely check my screws on all my bike shoes.
This was so helpful for me to watch before my first time (nervously) clipping on to a road bike. It gave me the boost of confidence I needed to get out there and try, and I had a great experience. Thanks so much, Dan & Lorraine!
They cicle on the wrong side of the road, but the handle bar is on the correct side of the bike...you are confusing me, british people.
@@cwuzii
Bicycle.
That’s because the Yanks changed it to suit their need to not shoot across the man with reigns on a wagon. It was based originally on the Horse, mount/dismount, still is. Mass production of Ford cars followed with LHD, copied from wagons and exports were that way which many accepted. But still mount and dismount a Horse the correct way.
@@tony.775 Not quite true. America adopted it because Napoleon did, and Napoleon did specifically to be anti-British in an absurdly petty and disruptive way that almost caused a collapse of the urban teamster infrastructure in europe.
Mass production of American cars is why it was adopted in most of the world though.
AFAIK most of the Europe drives on the right because of WW2, where it was changed under occupation. And driving/riding on the left originated from riding a horse and most people being right handed, thus from middle ages, if you needed to use your sword, you would pass your target from the left side. Same historical reason why man should walk on the right side of a woman, so he can easily draw his sword to protect her.
Correction you cycle on the wrong side of the road
I am about to buy these pedals, so this video comes in very handy, especially how to practice before going out on a regular ride. I will inform how it went. Thanks!
From my experience I’d suggest 2 bolt (SPD/mountain bike) cleats as your first ever set as they are easier to walk in, and slightly easier to clip in/out of - instilling greater confidence, earlier! Once you’re confident you can move on, and you’re less likely to experience one of those embarrassing moments!
Hi Shaun - Im just a novice rider looking to try clipless for my road bike. Can you recommend the hybrid pedals - Shimano that have a flat side and then a x2 hole type clip? They seem to be suitable for both road and MTB type use ? You suggested the x2 hole type for new to clipless - any advice appreciated. Thanks everybody
@@robindavies9081 I used those hybrid pedals for years on my commuter. To be honest I didn't use the flat side very often (loved clipless too much), but having the choice is great especially if you only want to use clipless for longer rides but still use your bike for short trips with trainers. The only downside is they are heavier, but that's not something everyone worries about. You just have to get used to making sure you're using the right side of the pedal (depending on your footwear) every time you set off from a stop (similar to SPD-SL/3 bolt) - not a deal breaker but something to think about, whereas SPD pedals are dual sided. The hybrid pedals are ideal for a more casual experience.
@@shaunmudd thankyou. Ill give them a go. Saw a lot of advice to try the mtb clip ins first so this is perfect for me at this point. Cheers for coming back with some thoughts. ITS Appreciated so much . Robin
Great video as I am using clip pedals for the first time. I went out the other to our local footy ground and tried the clip on's. Great idea to do on soft ground. I did fall once but after 30mins it smooth. I could stop and take off my foot and get ready to go again. I rode home with clips on and felt really good. As Melbourne is not good at the moment so have stay indoors.
Thanks again for the video.
I just came here to say that yall are SO CUTE TOGETHER!!
Excellent information, I wish I had watched this video about 10 years ago when I got my first road bike. Had a nasty fall when I couldn’t get Un clipped. I now have a Peloton Bike + and have noticed that a LOT of owners don’t understand how their clip pedals work and can’t get their shoes Un clipped! Everyone at Peloton should make these videos and this website available to clients! I just learned about degrees of ‘Slop’, fantastic.
"Cleat facing forward." Nice!
Dan's comment about how kids find it easier to learn to clip in is spot on. One Sunday I returned from a ride to find that my 12 year old had gotten a old pair of my shoes and my spare bike and figured it out on his own. He was zipping up and down the street in front of the house. I never had to coach him on it at all. Of course he has been forced to watch a LOT of GCN videos over the years.
Dan saying “You’re already in” is the new Matt saying “First time!”
Turned road cyclist in the 80's after running for years. Best decision ever! It is not a cheap sport. Atlanta had a robust cycling community with many ride choices. Was doing 200 miles a week started with cleats ended up with clipless -was sooo much better. HOWEVER YOU MUST EXPECT TO FALL OVER AT LEAST ONCE WHEN GETTING USED TO THEM. YES IN FRONT OF THE PACK. 🙈 Hello from sunny and warm St. Petersburg, Florida.
8:07 "It is quite soft, but you will get wet." The phrasing...
What about “see Loraine in all her glory...”. ???🤣
@@legacy4179 ?
I just came here to say I just finally got my first pair of clipless, took the bike out in the neighborhood for a few laps around the block to get used to them for when I actually go riding the next day or so.
Immediately fell standing in place trying to clip.
I did it!
Never seen Dan so nervous!........
We have, when someone nearly drops his beer
Nearly 40, got my first proper road bike arriving soon. Have to admit I am nervous about these pedals too. Good to see videos like this that do feel welcoming and not stupid.
Move aside Dan, think we've just found the new GCN presenter!
I've been cycling for over 40 years but I still use double sided clipless pedals on both my road bikes. Where I live there are lots of steep narrow country lanes where you often have to stop for passing cars, lorries and tractors etc, and on the housing estate where I live you have roundabouts on hills. Using road pedals was rather nerve racking trying to clip in immediately when pushing off on a hill sometimes in heavy traffic. I went back to double sided, now I can clip in immediately in any situation. There's not a huge difference in their performance compared to road pedals, they are still very efficient, and my nerves are in one piece, LOL.
She made it look easy! I think all of us have fallen over in the first few rides clipless.
I sure did
Been using clipless for years. One time I unclipped left foot and leaned right. Landed on bike rack and rear bumper.. Great video BTW!
This is like a romance movie lol, great job, you guys are so sweet
Dude I've learned nothing I've just been like "Look at these love birds".
This video was really helpful! I competed in triathlon a million years ago but when I left the sport in 2012, I left cycling as well. Just this year I started to get back into cycling. I got clipless pedals because I thought I'd remember how to use them. NOPE! I fell MULTIPLE times on the road. It was terrifying, mortifying, and painful. I was too scared to use them so I took them off. Now I'm motivated to put them back on and try again...only this time I'll find a grassy park!
Well done Dan & Lorraine. I left my missus off on her own, feel very slightly guilty now...
Just tried yesterday for the first time, prior to it carefully studied the theory and watched many videos, including this one. Tried at home and finally went out: prior to the first stop unlocked both sides and almost fell just because of being confused to which side to step, then decided that better to unlock only one side first and on the second stop I fell off right away to the opposite side due to the lost balance, too late unclipping on slow speed. After all mistakes were collected, it started to be fine, I feel like the real experience is better gained through the typical failures. Still need to practice, but confidence is slowly coming.
the age and weight being unknown had me dead afffff😂
I’ve seen so many of GCN videos on clipless pedals and this was truly one of them...I mean one of the best. I use mountain bike shoes and cleats on my road bike and this video makes me want switch to road.
just had a cycling session using clipless pedals for the first time. Totally different experience and really awesome!
Missed the top tip of putting on the front brake when clipping your leading foot in.
Tried using my clipless pedals for the first time today after 2 sessions on the trainer. Hit the deck right away, forgot I was clipped in. Smooth.
6:01 'how much longer do I have to do this for Dan?'
I literally just decided to try some of these for the first time after a bad experience when I was younger.. Thanks!
First time riding clipless, already has Di2 🙃
Well this is GCN 😁
Its a rental bike
I got a used dura ace di2 6,8 kilo road bike and I still use non-clipless pedals on it, just too scared to fall over
I am planning to buy my first clipless and this video is well in time. Thanks Dan! Love the humor.
Glad it was helpful!
Very useful indeed for beginners! By the way, we call them "automatic pedals" in Spain, which sounds a bit more coherent with its real purpose, I guess.
We certainly hope so!
In Germany we literally call the click pedals. Also more coherent then clipless.
@@tropfen What is the actual German? I might start using it. Clipless makes zero sense :-)
@@guest_informant I don't quite understand the question. Do you mean how it is spelled? If so it's Klickpedale.
@@tropfen That's great. Thanks. From now on I'm calling them Klickpedale is the plural Klickpedalen?
Lovely video! Very good tips as well!
I remember falling at a stop years ago when I first got my clipless pedals. 🚴
It’s a right of passage for cyclists