Rat Trap "Death Trap" Pedals Should Not Be Used In Restoration Of Old Lightweights

[frankabr.]

This pedal design was very dangerous. It was designed to securely hold ones foot in the pedals. If hit by a car or truck, you risk being dragged under the vehicle. Unfortunately, this used to happen, much too often, in the old days. Clipless pedals were designed in response to this. They will easily disengage.

This saved my life when a truck hit me from behind (doing 55)mph. This was in 1990. I was using early Look clipless pedals. Although knocked unconscious, the pedals disengaged. My bike went under the truck, but I did not. (I was also wearing a helmet, which shattered, but also certainly helped save my life).

Many people doing restorations today do not know, or remember how dangerous those pedals were. This is a serious post, and I hope you listening. If doing a restoration project, you should discard this type of pedal. Use clipless or non cage pedals.

F.A.

 

[Iverider]

Are you talking about toe clips?

 

[frankabr.]

Toe Clips, Popular In The 60's, 70', 80's

Yes. And sadly there is still a market for the pedals and clips pictured.

F.A.

 

[1959firearrow]

I think they look pretty cool wouldn't mind having a set but then again they would be on a bike I have that doesn't see a lot of ride time.

 

[ericbaker]

This is silly.

SO many people including myself, have used and continue to use pedals like these for many many years. Your individual views and circumstances shouldn't discourage others from using them.

 

[Boris]

I've never had a problem getting out of them fast when I need to. But then, I never keep them strapped super tight.

 

[frankabr.]

Gene Pool

It's interesting how the low end intelligence always gets weeded out of the gene pool. Just like motorcycle drivers who don't wear helmets, or people who smoke cigarettes.

My take on things, F.A.

 

[Boris]

Some of us survived and our only goal in life is to pollute your perfect gene pool.

 

[frankabr.]

Do Some Research

All matters aside, If you get a chance, do some research as to why clipless pedals came about. If you are going to display a bicycle, there's obviously no problem with putting rat traps on them. But I'd strongly suggest not using them on long rides, especially traversing major roadways. One day, when that drunk driver or person on a cellphone comes your way (and I hope it never happens), you may thank me.

F.A.

 

[Iverider]

[video=youtube_share;dfbFz0v8u-4]http://youtu.be/dfbFz0v8u-4[/video]

I wouldn't use toe clips and straps out but only because I'm used to clipless and toe clips aren't very nice to shoes.

I have used them in the past and had no trouble whatsoever getting my feet out of them quickly.