Anybody out there using flats for every day trail use? I'm just getting over knee surgery and I'm considering trying out platform pedals to avoid any additional stress on the knee from unclipping.
I'm curious about the learning curve with the platforms. How easy is it to 'relearn' how to bunny hop or get over obstacles without having your feet fly all over. How much will I miss my clipless pedals on extended climbs? Will shin protection be pretty much mandatory for every ride? I've already researched the shoes, and I am willing to splurge for a pair of 5-10's. I'm mainly an XC and light FR rider, not much of a DH type.
Anyone else make the switch?
I use Wellgo Mag's on my Sinister sussy bike. Reason being, if I see a log ride, drop or jump mid-ride that I want to hit, I much rather do it with flats than clips. I keep clips on the SS Rhygin as I'm not hitting anything even semi-burly with that thing. The climbs are a bit tougher but I like to descend without being clipped in - I feel safer, more in-control.
Depending on how you learned to bunnyhop, the learning curve might not be bad. I will tell you that, if you can bunnyhop with flats you are doing it the right way. When you first get the flats - practice bunnyhops over 2x4's in your driveway. Better to learn in a controled/safe environment. I wanted to re-learn bunnyhop 180's the right way and did the same thing w/ the 2x4's.
Extended climbs will be tougher but it depends on the steepness of the trail. The more mellow the pitch the less the flats will hurt you.
Shin protection isn't a bad idea. I don't use them much but I've also slipped a pedal more than a few times with very bloody shins. Although that happened when I was trying stuff on my little bike on the ramp. On the trail I hardly ever have an issue with a slipped pedal to shin.
Good spiky pedals are key. The Wellgo's I have, have incredible bite and are LAF. Sun Ringle ZuZu's are very good too. Check Dan's Comp for a big selection or if you are near Lakewood, stop by Staff.
I hear a lot of dudes online that like the 5-10's, so they must be doing something right, but I couldn't buy a pair myself based on the looks of the sole design. My current favs are Orchid. I also like some of the Etnies sole design - the old Vallaleys and Joe Rich models were sweet. Both brands are made for BMX riders so they have good ankle support and padding.