· Hugo · Bikes · 2 min read
How to Use Clipless Pedals Without Falling (The Ultimate Guide)
Terrified of falling at a stoplight? Learn the '3-Step Drill' to master clipless pedals, the most common beginner mistakes, and how to set your tension for safety.
Every road cyclist remembers their first “clipless fall.” Usually, it happens at a complete standstill, in front of a busy intersection, because you simply forgot to unclip.
While it seems like a rite of passage, falling isn’t actually mandatory. With the right technique and a bit of “muscle memory” practice, you can transition from flat pedals to clipless without ever hitting the pavement.
In this guide, I’ll show you the 3-Step Drill to master your pedals and the one mechanical adjustment that will save you if you get stuck.
1. The “Zero-Tension” Hack
Before you even put your shoes on, look at your pedals. Both Shimano (SPD-SL) and Look (Keo) systems have a small adjustment screw on the back of the pedal.
The Fix: Use a 2.5mm or 3mm Allen wrench to turn this screw toward the “Minus” (-) symbol until it stops. This sets the release tension to its lowest point, making it incredibly easy to “snap” your foot out in an emergency.
2. The 3-Step Practice Drill
Do not try to learn clipless in traffic. Go to a grassy park or stay in your hallway holding onto a wall.
- Stop & Prop: Lean against a wall or fence so you can’t fall over.
- Clip & Unclip (x50): Practice the “Heel Out” motion. Do not pull up; twist your heel away from the bike. Do this 50 times on each side until you don’t have to think about it.
- The Grass Roll: Find a flat, grassy area. Ride slowly and practice unclipping one foot while you are still moving. If you do tip over, the grass will catch you.
3. The “Early Out” Rule
The biggest mistake beginners make is waiting until they are stopped to unclip.
The Rule: If you see a red light or a stop sign 50 yards ahead, unclip your dominant foot immediately. Coast toward the stop with one foot ready to touch the ground. Never wait until the last second.
4. Which Foot Should You Unclip?
Choose one foot (usually your dominant leg) to be your “ground foot” and stick with it.
- Right Footers: Unclip your right foot and lean slightly to the right as you stop.
- Left Footers: Unclip your left foot and lean left.
Pro Tip: If you unclip your left foot (non-drive side), you avoid getting “chainring grease” on your calf and keep your body further away from passing traffic.
SPD vs. SPD-SL (Clipless Types)
| Type | Better For | Walking Ease | Cleat Style |
|---|---|---|---|
| SPD (Mountain/Gravel) | Beginners & Commuters | Easy (Recessed cleat) | Small metal 2-bolt |
| SPD-SL / Look (Road) | Racing & Performance | Hard (Duck walk) | Large plastic 3-bolt |
| Speedplay | Adjustability/Dual Sided | Moderate | Round lollipop |
Clipless Pedal FAQs
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Why are they called 'clipless' if you clip in? | Legacy naming! Before these existed, riders used 'toe clips' (metal cages with straps). When pedals were invented that attached directly to the shoe, they were called 'clipless' because they lacked the cage/clip. |
| Can I use mountain bike pedals on a road bike? | Yes! Many beginners prefer SPD (mountain) pedals because they are dual-sided (easier to find the clip) and the shoes are easier to walk in. |
| My cleats are squeaking. Is that normal? | Usually, this means your cleats are dry or dirty. Wipe them down and apply a tiny drop of dry chain lube to the contact points to silence the squeak. |