SPD pedals VS Other

Is there a difference between types of clipless Pedals? I want to put Clipless pedals on my Burley Django, because today while I was riding, my feet were knocked off several times. Problem is, reactions are slower on right foot/leg than on left due to a stroke 10 years ago, so I need to be able to QUICKLY release my feet from the pedals in case of balance or whatever the reason.
So is there one that releases easier and quicker than another?

 

Another plus about Eggbeaters. They were designed for mountain biking. They remain functional even when caked with mud. I found that out on my C & O canal bike ride I just did. Though my shoes were caked with mud, I could clip in and out with no problem. You couldn't do that with Frogs and SPDs.

 

I've used SPD (dual sided), Crank Brothers (Candy) and Speedplay (Frog) pedals. Currently using the Frogs. I found all of them to be easy to use and easy to unclip although, I need to have my foot in a particular zone of the crank rotation to unclip my Frogs or I can get some interference from my toe hitting the crank. On a trike this is no problem but could be on a bike. If you go with SPD pedals, make sure you get their multi-directional cleat, giving you more ways to release from your pedal. The biggest difference in these pedals is the amount of float (or play, if you will) they give your foot. My SPD's were very fixed in one position. The Crank Brothers gave me a little more heel movement (without releasing) so I could adjust my foot position on the pedals. The Frogs allow my heels to actually swing, and as AD mentioned, make you feel as though you are not clipped. I always have to lift my feet to make sure they are really clipped in. I had no trouble fitting my cleats for the Frogs to my shoes. I can't even feel mine when I walk but it all depends upon the shoe. I got lucky and didn't require dremel tool alterations.

 

Hi, I too use the Crank Bros Candy pedals after numerous physical issues in the last 5 years (hit by a SUV with five months in a wheelchair, a few arm surgeries, and a jacked back, 2 carotid aneurysms repaired, and a stroke from an angiogram) and the float is just right for me. I am a little slow on the left side, but on a big group ride (like 500 people) was able to pop the sidis out quickly and not look the fool on the ground still clipped in. My next pedals will probably be the Egg Beaters. They seem easier to clip out, when milliseconds count. Good luck and happy riding! Glad to find this board and looking forward to learning from everyone!

 

Several shops told me if I want out quickly, do not get Frogs or Egg Beaters. I ended up buying a set of Shimano M324 dual platform SPD pedals, and a set of Shimano M520 SPD's. tried the 520's first and they were too small. Getting second foot up and locked in was needed quickly and too fast. The 324's had more area to push on while locking in, so that is what I am going with, and have them set with the least amount of pressure, so getting out is quite easy with the sh56 multi-direction cleats.

 

Not sure why the shop would say that?

I've been using frogs for over 12 years both on my DF and Bent and it's just 2nd nature to release when necessary. I actually found them to be easier to release due to the fact that you don't feel any resistance at the release point. Just twist your foot and you're out.

 

Agreed. Used nothing else for 6 years. A few degrees of rotation and you're free. In fact, sometimes they're TOO easy to get out (as in, when you don't want to) if not properly adjusted. And clipping in couldn't be easier. Just get your cleat anywhere near the pedal and give a little push forward.

 

Another very realistic choice IF the clipless pedals prove too difficult is to get a set of Heel Slings. They keep your feet on the pedals, but don't attach you to the pedals. I have a friend who has to use these on his bents because of injuries he suffered riding his MTB several years ago. He doesn't have the rotation in his ankles to use clips so heel slings are the only safe way for him to keep his feet on his pedals.

 

We does what we has to do...
The efficiency gained by pulling with clipins is in a way secondary to the safety of keeping one's feet on the pedals. Slipping a foot from a pedal on a recumbent can be an excellent way to badly injure or destroy body parts such as legs and knees. I didn't use clipins for years. Now that I know the danger of without I wish I'd begun using them from Day 1.