4 Clipless Pedals

…For though the righteous fall seven times, they rise again…, Proverbs 24:16 NIV

The first time I used my new Clipless pedals was on Carr Canyon Rd. In Cochise County, Arizona. Carr Canyon Road is a steep five mile climb with curves, hills, slide-gravel switch backs, and wide washboard sections that lead to the mountain top camping and picnic area.

Before I had gone less than a mile using my new clipless pedals (and the shoes that go with them), I had fallen over on my side five times.  Panic continued to grip my stomach as I’d topple over holding my breath all the way down.  I’d prepare my shoulder for impact, and squint knowing what would always follow. 

Once again, I would unclip, get up, and start over.  Ah…clipless pedals.  I loved using them more and more, mainly because of the ‘’commitment” factor.  Once you clipped in and started the downhill, you were basically going to keep going until you reached the bottom of the mountain, or crashed.  Why was it that I had no problem clipping out when flying over my handlebars, but when I wanted to simply dab on the trail, it would be so hard to pull my shoe out?

Those were the first few weeks of my “clipless pedal” episodes.  With time, I didn’t even notice I had clipless pedals, unless of course, it rained and my shoes would get covered with mud and the clips would stick!

It wasn’t until years later that I would switch out my Clipless pedals for my flats. I decided to go with Iron Cross flats. I really like them and still ride with them to this day (2024). The only drawback with my flats is a quick stop with foot-to-ground can leave you with a bleeding calf muscle and life long scars. My ride buddies would always say, “and what did you learn from that? DON’T USE YOUR BRAKES!” That was a running joke with us since I tended to use my breaks and dab (put my foot down while riding), too much! Whether using clipless pedals or flats for mountain biking, the most important thing is to get on your bike and ride! Have a good one.

Lord God, as I take new steps in my walk with you, mistakes are inevitable, falls unavoidable.  Cause me to remember that each trial, every mistake, all of the challenges will one day be seen as indispensable.  Help me to turn “stumbling blocks into stepping stones.” 

Challenge 4:  What has been your greatest challenge in riding, or in life?  How have you seen that obstacle boost you into a higher level of riding or living? What steps will you begin today to overcome hardship, or allow it to move you forward? One step, an attitude change, or grace to breathe and keep pedaling might be just what the “dr. ordered.”

Commit your goals to writing. Jot down challenges, prayers, or the steps you’ll begin. This moment can keep you in the present and remind you of times you’ve triumphed. Please leave a comment to share your experience with your pedals, and which preference you have.