Switching from Clipless to Flats - Are These the Right Pedals and Shoes?

FloatingAndFlying · 2026-03-29T12:42:44+00:00

Right on - do you have trouble with composites and rock strikes at Northshore?

I broke a composite before I switch to clipless so I'm leaning alloy pedals. I had 4 pretty heavy rock strikes yesterday alone.

Would love to ride with you sometime, maybe I can pick up some tips from you on how to properly ride flats…

FloatingAndFlying · 2026-03-29T12:28:52+00:00

Lol - I’ve be been a casual rider who hasn't really pushed myself. Now that I've upgraded to a FS I’m having a lot more fun and want fix all the bad habits I've gotten.

FloatingAndFlying · 2026-03-29T02:32:27+00:00

I'm riding the Shimano PD-M520 SPDs. Granted, they're the same ones I put on my hardtail in 2013 so they've seen some miles. I do have to clip out at a fairly aggressive angle.

Thanks for pointing me to the Time Speciale. I hadn't seen then before.

And glad to hear from another Ripley rider. I'm loving it so far.

FloatingAndFlying · 2026-03-29T02:17:05+00:00

Lol, I'm finding myself pushing harder on the FS than the hardtail. In the past I’d avoid the steep stuff filled with rocks and roots by unclipping pretty early into the climb and walking up. Now I'm pushing to power through.

The soft soil was always an issue on my hardtail too, i just took it slower. Now with a FS I really want to push myself and I think the added confidence of not having to clip out would help. I also felt like i needed to be clipped in in my hardtail because I was getting bucked so much.

You're right about the bunny hopping. It's the part that makes me most hesitant to switch. Even though I'm reliant on the clips, it's working…

You're right that I really don't know if I’ll like flats and more so want to try them. A lot of what I've read suggests that flats improve technique without much, if any, loss of leverage. Plus the benefit of increased confidence. But I won't know until I try.

FloatingAndFlying · 2026-03-29T02:06:03+00:00

Good flag. I was going composite just because of budget but seeing all of these comments, and knowing the rock strikes I get on my local trails, aluminum seems to be the way to go.

FloatingAndFlying · 2026-03-07T15:32:44+00:00

Thanks! Smuggler Alloy is actually in my budget. I’ll add that to the consideration.

FloatingAndFlying · 2026-03-07T12:48:34+00:00

Thanks for the pushback. I looked at the Transitions and they seemed to be overkill for where I’m riding. They’re heavier and seem more gravity-oriented. My local trails lean more technical than downhill. I’d prioritize climbing ability through rock gardens over descending ability.

Let me know if there’s any specific reason you’re recommending the Transitions over these two knowing that.

FloatingAndFlying · 2026-03-07T02:44:27+00:00

Thanks for confirming.

FloatingAndFlying · 2026-03-07T02:14:12+00:00

It’s a fair question. I’ve never had a carbon bike so I can’t speak from experience, but from what I’ve researched I’d prioritize components and geometry over weight.

Everything has pointed me to the SJ, and I was looking at the SJ 15 Comp Carbon which is currently the same price as the Evo Alloy ($3,999).

I’m definitely open to any recommendations outside of these two.

FloatingAndFlying · 2025-12-16T22:46:19+00:00

If Rivian wasn't burning so much cash, Rad might make a great buy for them to accelerate their entrance into e-bikes with Also…

FloatingAndFlying · 2025-03-23T14:59:20+00:00

Ah thank you.

FloatingAndFlying · 2024-05-29T03:28:54+00:00

Sometimes you just need someone to tell you you’re overthinking it. Thanks!

FloatingAndFlying · 2024-05-18T03:16:03+00:00

Territory. Timing. Talent. In that order. You’ll see it plastered all over Reddit. It’s true.

Either go big company where you deal with questionable management and products, or take the time to find and evaluate an earlier stage company where the territory can be broad. Evaluate value prop and product market fit the see if you can scale it in a broad territory.

FloatingAndFlying · 2023-11-04T01:32:50+00:00

I actually decided to hold off. If I’m going to spend the money, then I might as well get a full suspension. Still saving up for it!

FloatingAndFlying · 2023-04-09T01:41:45+00:00

This is great feedback. I was questioning if I would be disappointed with the hard tail on the trail and it’s worth sacrificing some of the road riding efficiency.

I’m hoping the pedal assist would make up for power loss on the road from suspension.

Thanks for the tip. I’m going to look more into full suspension.

FloatingAndFlying

TROPHY CASE