Performance Inc. Forte Classic

Price Paid:  $39.00 at Performance

Favorite Ride:
Parrish Gap- Talbot

Bike Setup:
2008 madone 5.2

Summary:
These were my first venture into clipless pedals and yes, I did crash a couple of time at stop lights. I just assumed that was part of the learning curve but maybe these do clip out a bit harder than most. I will be finding out soon as I have 1,400 miles on these and the right pedal is starting to have a bearing go out 'clicking' which drives me nuts. (I weigh 180 lbs. and have some hills in my riding area but if you can't get a full season out of them it doesn't matter how cheap they are....) Not sure yet if I want to go with the Keo or Speedplay but it sounds like either is a better choice than these.

Strengths:
Cheap, look decent, float is easy on the knees.

Weaknesses:
Bearings are weak and won't last long. Cleats tend to wear quickly.

Price Paid:  $45.00 at Performance Bike

Favorite Ride:
A Dry One

Bike Setup:
Two wheels, a frame and handlebars.

Summary:
I bought these before seeing these reviews. They are deathtraps, especially for new clipless riders like myself. I fell twice because I could not get out of the pedals. AVOID!

Strengths:
They are easily returned.

Weaknesses:
They resulted in a damaged bike, physical pain and embarrassment.

Similar Products Used:
Forte Campus Pedal - a far superior clipless pedal for those new to them.

Price Paid:  $39.00 at Performance

Favorite Ride:
Napa Valley

Bike Setup:
2006 LeMond Chambery

Summary:
I also bought this for the price, and was disapointed on how difficult it was to clip out. I also had to remove my foot from my shoe to clip out the first time, it was easier to turn my heel inwards to clip out. But I also found that if you use the Look black cleat instead of the red one that comes with the pedals, clipping out is a lot easier. The black cleat has little float so disengagement occurs quicker. But I went back to my spd pedals anyway and gave these to my son, and they are working fine for him along with the black cleats. He has ridden over 400 miles with these.

Strengths:
price and style

Weaknesses:
Clipping out, red cleat has to much float. Try the black cleat big difference.

Similar Products Used:
Shimano spd, Look

Price Paid:  $40.00 at Performance Bike Sho

Favorite Ride:
Hills, Big Hills

Bike Setup:
Cannondale R600 (mostly stock), Terry Tri-Fly, Pro2Race tires.

Summary:
Well, looking to save money has ended up almost costing me my life. These were my first pair of clipless pedals, and it took me some time to appreciate why my cyclist friends were laughing when they watched me struggle to clip out of these shackles. I did not know any better, until I was invited to try other clipless pedals. This morning I had to make a emergency stop and crashed in front a line of cars. I have decided to trash these and go with a set of Look Keo Classics.

Strengths:
They are cheap. Which is good, because you will need the extra money for Neosporin and bandages.

Weaknesses:
Almost impossible to clip out. Just plain dangerous.

Similar Products Used:
First clipless pedals.

Price Paid:  $34.00 at Performance

Favorite Ride:
Heidelberg

Bike Setup:
Cannondale, Campagnolo record, Velomax Orion II wheels

Summary:
I purchased these pedals because I could not see spending $150 for a pair. My mistake. First off, unclipping is difficult even after six months. You have to think about unclipping before you stop or be prepared to topple over.

After 600km the pedals began to tick. Upon further inspection I found the main bearing was worn out. I weigh around 200lbs and climb hills weekly. So much for purchasing a cheap set of pedals. Perhaps a lighter rider might get more use out of them.

Strengths:
Inexpensive price.

Weaknesses:
Difficult to unclip and not made for heavier riders. Cheaply made.

Similar Products Used:
Look, Shimano