i went to the north downs yesterday and had a great time but due to it being more techicall, rooty etc than im used to i took a tumble whilst still clipped in on more occasions than i care to remember! i just dont sem to be able to get out quick enough! im concentrating on roots etc and my line and before i can even think "uh ohh!" im on the deck. didnt even get chance to unclip, let alone think about it.
i have m520's and there already on loosest setting.there only about 3 months old.
how can i improve my sloth like reaction times and reduse the bruises? 😥
Keep at it. It will come, eventually.
so will broken bones at this rate!
i was going to say loosen them but you've done that already. you could try looking further ahead down the trail, after a while you'll be able to judge what cou can and cant get over without a cheeky foot down. wear knee guards for the interim perhaps
flat pedals and arnica?
Flats
You could try multi-release cleats?
Otherwise as above and stick to flats until you become a better judge of what you can ride without dabbing 😀
flats. loosening them doesnt give you more time, just makes it easier. if you havent got the time then you need flats.... they're better anyhoo. FACT!
try working on your core strength, with a balance board or bosu ball - it will improve your balance.
Also practice clipping out, remember to lead with your heel not your toe 😉
give a decent pair of flats a try (with 5.10's if poss)..you'll be pleasantly surprised..
they do seem to just need to be turned around so far.what feels almost to far. feels like i have to turn my leg from the hip rather than the ankle??
ive never, even unclipped out of them by accident...
Tweak your cleat position a little so you don't have to turn your foot out so far?
Oh, and commit more to what you're doing. You'll either get through completely unscathed (likely) or end up wrapped round a tree quick enough that you won't have time to think about unclipping (possible).
I'd second Crotchrocket: work on improving your balance and control at slow speeds and over uneven terrain. Using a balance ball and doing some basic weights REALLY works and, when you've improved (which won't happen overnight, but it will happen) not only will you not NEED to unclip as you'll be steadier on your wheels, you'll suffer less back ache on longer rides too.
Try it, it really worked for me!
have you checked that the cleats aren't lose as this happened to me and i could rotate my foot a [i]long[/i] way before i could unclip.