ChrisF wrote:If you use cleats or clipped pedals, when you slow down to stop at a junction, do you unclip your left or right foot? I've always used my left foot, but noticed on today's ride that two of our group of 4 de-cleat on the right.
Thinking about it, maybe because I started my cycling in an urban environment there was nearly always a kerb to put my foot on when I had to stop. But I can't see any advantage (in the UK) of removing the right foot from the pedal, unless your left leg is stronger for the subsequent push off.
Any thoughts?
My left foot down is default, mainly because that's historically been on the kerb before I set off. Similarly, my default rolling mount/dismount is to the left.
However, there are times when it pays to be less one-sided and use the other side. Stopping at junctions on my MTB (which has a high bottom bracket, being an MTB) I'll tend to go more often for right foot down these days, as the camber of a typical road makes the ground that little bit nearer on the right.
Also, when the MTB gets to where its going (off road) it's entirely possible I'll be in a situation where the right foot down just works better on the ground I'm on (e.g., damn great puddle on the left, place to dismount to the right but not the left etc.).
Being able to pick and choose is a Good Thing. If you've only ever got on and off a bike from one side it's quire amusing how cack-handed one is trying the other side. Or just plain scared if it's a rolling mount/dismount.
Pete.
Often seen riding a bike around Dundee...