Clip or strap pedals allowed for online rankings?

[silver1]

For the online rankings for the BikeErg, is it allowed to use pedals that clip or strap your shoes to the pedals? It seems like these might not be allowed since they should allow a more efficient pedaling style.

Thanks for any responses.

[Citroen]

There are no rules on that.

[CaseyClarke]

There are a set of listed rules.

4. Modifications to the machine that alter its performance are not allowed. Examples of allowed modifications; seating, pedals, handlebars. Please check with Concept2 if you are unsure.

Changing the pedals is okay.

[johnlvs2run]

is it allowed to use pedals that clip or strap your shoes to the pedals?

Most people who race on bicycles use clips or straps, so yes, of course they're okay.

they should allow a more efficient pedaling style.

There's not much change in efficiency, but they do help quite a bit to keep the feet from slipping on the pedals. At the beginning I started with no clips, than added toe clips, then later added clips and straps. The efficiency has been the same throughout, but each progression has helped more to keep my feet on the pedals.

Regular cycling shoes with cleats would likely be even better, but cycling shoes are way too tight and restrictive for me. Also the cleats can be quite slippery when walking on the smooth concrete floors. Thus my lightweight rubber soled shoes with clips and straps are much better for me.

[Citroen]

Regular cycling shoes with cleats would likely be even better, but cycling shoes are way too tight and restrictive for me. Also the cleats can be quite slippery when walking on the smooth concrete floors. Thus my lightweight rubber soled shoes with clips and straps are much better for me.

Mountain bike shoes have the cleat recessed into the sole so you can walk over the rocks and roots out on the trail.
Shimano M520 cleats one side/flat on the other pedals would be my choice.

[johnlvs2run]

Mountain bike shoes are heavy, and have stiff narrow restrictive uppers with tight toes.
I would like to use SPD or similar pedals. The pedals would be fine, but the shoes are the problem.

[macroth]

Stiff and tight wins the race. On the other hand, I'm pretty sure there are several models of MTB/urban cycling SPD shoes that aren't particularly geared towards performance and therefore aren't that restrictive.
As for weight, high end racing shoes will be light, comfy shoes will likely be heavier, but I don't really see that as an issue on a stationary bike.

[macroth]

I just remembered Shimano makes (made?) SPD sandals, if you can find a pair ! Might be other brands out there.

[chipman650]

Cycling shoes, either road or Mt style should always fit comfortably. Just as regular shoes would. If the shoes you tried are too tight, there are plenty of brands (Lake, Specialized, Sidi, and others that all offer shoes that are wider.