Originally Posted by
dcteague
Wow, just started with a set of clipless (Shimano 105's with Fizik R4 shoes) - I've never used clipless before and I'm amazed at the difference. I'm shocked at how much less energy it requires to ride, especially hills. I am sure there's a best way to leverage the full cycle of the pedal stroke but for now I'll just keep practicing until I take my first spill - as I know it will happen at some point.
Are there any guides on how to best to transition and not do anything wrong that trains your body to use them the wrong way?
I was always told in order to get a nice smooth pedal stroke, pedal like you are wiping dog poop from the bottom of your shoe.
If you are sprinting you can use different muscle groups by pulling up on the pedals to quickly increase the acceleration, to train yourself to increase cadence during a climb, try not to push down on the pedals at all.
This builds other muscles in your legs and makes for a well rounded pedal stroke.
-Sean