Speedplays are great. Plenty of knee-saving float, easy to maintain, and they last forever. For a specific recommendation: you'll be fine with the chromoly zeros. The smaller pedal surface is really a non-issue, as the cleat is quite ample. Thwy're light, sturdy, well-made, and popular for the reason that they work. I have tens of thousands of miles on mine and have never had stability issues or hotspots.
As for shoes, whichever fit you best. Have this fitting done at a good bike store by a knowledgeabile fitter. Like bike shorts, generally you get what you pay for here. That said, adidas cycling shoes punch well above their weight and seem to be perpetually on sale at Nashbar / Performancebike.
Ultegra is more than good enough. Actually, 105 is more than good enough up to and including recreational racing. The supergroups are simply way more than most people who own them need or can justify. Roll up to a group ride some time ... it's comical to see plenty of dudes who are 10 to 30 lbs overweight, and have spent the extra megabucks to save 90 g with a duraace, record or Sram Red group.
Last, get a good helmet and never ride without it.
Quote:
Originally Posted by
kronik 
Not specifically for BMX but any type of bikes. Not to mention, I figure people could ask for recommendations for bikes and such in one thread. This is also my selfish way of asking a few questions and posting pictures of my recent purchases..
Pedal recommendation for a newb? Shoe recommendation for a newb? I was looking at Sidi Ergo 2's because I found them at around half off with some Speedplay Zeros and then I thought to myself, I do not need to take the StyleForum approach to cycling and could probably get away with something nice but cheaper. It seems there are advocates for each pedal system so hearing some feedback from you guys would be great.
Why would anyone spend money on Campy Super Record 11 vs. your Shimano Ultegra? It shaves off some weight and is Italian which.. at the end of the day, I doubt the 2 pounds are really what makes anyone into a world-class cyclist but I digress. I've wondered this because I've seen in a number of cases people say you wouldn't upgrade until your current parts are one with the fishes and even then, I don't see why me going with SRAM Red (cool as it looks) would ever be a good idea.
I can ask these questions here without getting lambasted by the BF'ers. Porn to come later.
