Q: When I ride my road bike I "clip in" with my shoes. But, the pedals are called clipless pedals. I understand that earlier pedals had "clips" that were quite different than what we have today hence the new pedals are called clipless. Is this the case? And if so, can you please describe how these earlier pedals worked? Please explain how today's pedals came to be called clipless if I have to clip in when I ride. Ok. Now can anyone descibe exactly what the old clip pedals looked like and how they worked. NRFanFor: Thanks.
A: you can still get quill pedals with toe clips and straps. low end bikes often come with these because you and use them with tennis shoes. toe clips were a metal or plastic cage that attached to the front of the pedal with bolts. they went over the toe of your shoe, and a strap ( a strip of leather with a buckle) went through the pedal and cage. you would pull the strap tight holding your foot in place. then when you needed to stop, you had to reach down real quick and flick the buckle loose so you could get your foot out. the new pedals are called clipless because they dont use those toe clips. if you look at any vintage photos from the 70's and earlier you will see examples of clips. also try looking at the last olympics at the photos from track races, as track racers still use them a lot. you will see a strap around the toe of thier shoes and a clip or cage looking piece over the toe of the shoe.