Safely Ride a Bicycle With Shoe Connectors
Shoe connectors or clips greatly increase the efficiency of pedaling a bicycle by allowing the rider to pull up on the pedals as well. They are safer than the older style of foot mounts because they are easier to dismount.
Contents
Steps
- Have a professional install the shoe clips or connectors. You will need to purchase your bicycle shoes at the same time (to install the shoe part of the clips into), unless you already own a pair. Do not leave until you have engaged the clips and disengaged the clips. You don't want to find yourself stuck in them. Have the professional adjust the clips so that they are firm, but easy to disengage (by twisting your feet).
- Beware of sudden stops. The greatest danger faced by a bicyclist using shoe connectors is the sudden (unexpected) stop. If the shoes are still connected to the pedals, the rider will fall over, hitting the cement with his legs and having the bicycle then land on his legs (which hurts even worse). Hopefully, he will not fall over in traffic. It is vitally important that when any potentially dangerous situation arises that the rider disengages from his clips.
- Place foam pipe insulation over the top bar (the one between the seat and the steering wheel) until you become adept at disengaging your shoes and recognizing when you may might need to make an emergency stop. It will lessen the impact of falling over.
- Disengage your clips from your pedals anytime you are near these hazards (you can still keep pedaling):
- Intersections.
- Riding on a sidewalk, especially an unfamiliar one.
- Going through gravel, or uneven terrain.
- In heavy traffic.
- When pedestrians (especially children) are nearby.
- Going through water (water can conceal potholes and other dangers).
- Very steep terrain, especially if you are going very slow.
- Anytime traction is lacking.
- Anytime you feel your bicycle is unsteady.
Tips
- Always wear a helmet.
- If there is any possibility you will need to stop, you should disengage.
- Clips should never be used for trail or mountain biking.
Warnings
- Shoe connectors should never be used by children.
- Using shoe connectors does not need to be dangerous. Wear a helmet and always think about if your shoe clips (connectors) should be engaged.
