How Do Clipless Bicycle Pedals Work?
The term “clipless pedals” is confusing because they refer to pedals that actually “clip” to a cyclist’s shoes. The origin of the term comes from the infancy of clipless systems, which replaced the cagelike baskets called “toe clips” that allowed the rider to both pull up and push down on the pedals, improving pedaling efficiency. Because the term “clips” was already in use, “clipless” pedals got their name because they attached the pedals to the rider’s foot without toe clips.
