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I've just swapped to spds and still not sure about it tbh. But just wondering if the m530s I use aren't for me. Still finding myself unclipping on downhill bits and wondered if anyone has any experience in them vs the m647s? Also for quick rides out with the kids im wondering if the m647s would let me stick my trainers on for a pedal.
When you say 647's, do you mean the plastic caged DX vwith them...
If so then yes, I've ridden in trainer's often enough with them.
the first issue sounds like a one with spds in general. The 647s are slightly easier to use unclipped than the latest spds (530s) but that's not really the point is it. They're not designed to be used unclipped and aren't good pedals that way. The cages are basically there to get you out of trouble if you happen to unclip. If you don't feel confident being clipped in then either learn/practise/alter your style or if you don't fancy/can't do that then go back to flatties.
Re. the second point (kids) then yes they are slightly better.
have you had your comedy slomo fall while still clipped in yet?
the vast majority only do it once.
everyone i know personally who use clipless pedals has done it.
mate of mine has a pair of the old dx ones with a cage, he swears by them.
i have only used uncaged models, so cant comment except to say i rarely use flatties these days as they no longer feel secure to me.
Yes had a few comedy falls and two not funny ones which knocked the confidence out of me I think.
My riding has improved being clipped in so want to give them a good go. May just try different pedals, shoes to what I prefer.
Ive got both on different bikes, great pedals both I thinknthe 530s are heavier and the dx marginally easier to use with the wrong shoes. But that is the point really ive used a few spd variants over tge years and none of the work tgat well with ordinary footwear, there's always a lump in the middle. But the ones with a bigger cage it's less pronounced.
As for getting used to spds, maybe loosen the springs and try different cleat positions, forward/back and left/right. There is an element of just getting used to it though.
I don't rate the dx ones for what you describe.
I found them to be very slippy when not clipped in and they are heavier than normal uncaged spds so offer no real advantage. I also didn't find them easier to clip into.
Considering it takes 5 minutes to swap pedals I would stick cheap flatties on for those rides where you want to wear trainers.
If you suffer from hot spots on long rides with standard spds I could see it being worth trying caged ones I suppose.
Thats what im going to do... feel abit OTT sticking my spd shoes on going for a 20min ride with a 8yr old 😆