Clips VS. Flats

[bkenney228]

Just out of curiosity, I wanted to see who was using clips and who was using flats and where they were using them...

I have been using clips on mostly everything I ride, but after I went over the handlebars the other day trying to negotiate a tech. decent, I am contemplating switching to flats for a while (for the bail factor if nothing else).

[konadave]

I use flats only. I do a lot of trailriding and climbing and they have worked out okay. I do a lot of stunts too so I need to have flats. If you're going to use falts, then buy a pair of BMX/Skateboard shoes. You will have much better traction. I have never used clips, but I dont think I will.

[Husqvarna]

For All mountain go with clips and you can spin by forcing one crank down and pull up with the other foot at the same time. Much more efficient than pumping flats.
If your doing a lot of bighit freeride stuff and not much riding, flats will allow you to be able to bail and land on your feet most of the time, instead of your head.

[Slappy]

Clips for everything except super muddy DH days.

[C.P.]

Clips for everything except super muddy DH days.

Yup. ' Use flats in snowy conditions too...

[Jisch]

I've used clips for a while. The bike I got this summer came with Shimano dual pedals - clips in the center with a plastic flat part around the outside. I don't know the model number. Anyway, I've been riding it with sneakers out behind my house and have finally figured out how to lift the bike without clips. I watched a few downhill videos and tried to duplicate their riding style - worked out nicely for me.

For climbing clipless still rule.

John

[TrailBate]

I use clips for everything. I can't even ride flats anymore. I just end up pulling my feet off the pedals all the time and look like a total 'tard.
I figure it's better to be clipped in on decents. I think that last thing you want to do is to take your feet off the pedals on a sketchy downhill. If your feet come off the pedals, you can slip forward on the bike, and over the bars you go!!

[errollthin]

Flats all day long. Once you have mastered the emergency bail you are good to go.

[Slider]

I can't ride unless I am clipped in. Serious injury results when I forget I'm not attached.

Slider