“Re: Ride #13: I Like the Shoes!”

> Steve will be amused to note that I fell over in my driveway. I have no problem > getting out of the pedals, but it takes a little practice to snap the shoes into place. > The left foot was locked in before I started moving, but it took so long to get the > second one in place that I wasn't moving fast enough to keep my balance. I fell > over sideways with a mighty thump (no injury, though). I laid there on the pavement > until I stopped laughing, then started over again. No problem the second time.

Think Laugh-In and Artie Johnson tipping over on the tricycle.

Now try doing it while on a mountain bike, in the woods; the muddy woods, on a rocky trail with 2 of your buddies along for your first excursion with clipless pedals. I still haven't lived it down. That and the cushioned landing ended up being poison ivy. All this for sake of 'efficiency'. Yeah, riiiiight.

But when your butt's dragging and the last energy you have left is from pulling UP on the pedals you start to really appreciate them.

-Bill Kearney