09-27-2017, 08:39 AM
That's the gist of it. Shimano makes the most common styles, SPD which is a recessed metal cleat that allows for walkable shoes and an SPD-SL that is a bigger plastic cleat that sits proud of the sole and isn't really meant for walking. SPD makes the most sense for most riders, I use it and I do really long distance rides without any hotspots or any other issues... it's nice to be able to stop and walk around a store or if one ever has to push the bike.
It's pretty easy to learn, I just leaned my bike against a wall and practised clipping in and out until it seemed like I had the hang of it. That being said when I worked in town I just commuted in my work clothes, 10km in steel toe boots wasn't a problem. In fact I did a lot of long distance riding without the clipless. I rode for a few years with just a pair of basic SPD shoes with the cleat covers installed and it worked really well for me. If I started commuting by bicycle again I wouldn't wear my clipless shoes, doesn't seem worth the hassle for a short ride.
It's pretty easy to learn, I just leaned my bike against a wall and practised clipping in and out until it seemed like I had the hang of it. That being said when I worked in town I just commuted in my work clothes, 10km in steel toe boots wasn't a problem. In fact I did a lot of long distance riding without the clipless. I rode for a few years with just a pair of basic SPD shoes with the cleat covers installed and it worked really well for me. If I started commuting by bicycle again I wouldn't wear my clipless shoes, doesn't seem worth the hassle for a short ride.