new rider here (damn gas prices!)

[Mr titanium]

Hello all,.... names Eric. I hope to soak up some knowledge from you avid riders. Ive been riding for 5 months (Whiting Ranch only,) 2wice a week. Was wondering if someone could tell me the advantages of clip pedals?? verses the standard platforms I have. Also, is there a big difference having rear suspension from just a hardtail ??(other than your seat not using your nutz as a speed bag on downhill steps) .........

[roadkillross]

with clipless( clips.. ino its a crazy name) each pedal stroke is more efficient. instead of just being able to push( like witha platform) you can pull up in your upstroke and throughtout the entire motion. they def. help alot. suspension is one of the greatest inventions of all time!!! although, if u like using ur nuts as a speedbag be my guest. im assuming u ride a HT? dont worry bout it, as you progress into the sport and want to drop some more coin on an FS, hit the peeps on here for advice. oh and btw welcome. im ross

[SAR_boats]

When you have big brass ba!!s like me the speedbag thing doesn't hurt. Saddles break a lot tho...

Seems like every piece of technology in this sport has an upside and a down side (carbon fiber, suspension, clipless pedals, lycra, etc.)

Rear suspension is a great for bumpy flats and downhills, it gives you more control over what the bike is doing, doesn't stress the frame as bad, and doesn't beat the rider up as much. The downside is that it adds weight and you lose some climbing ability.
Clipless pedals give you the ability to have a more efficient pedal stroke but if you go over the bars (OTB) chances are the bike is going to go with you.

Welcome aboard. Most people call me Boats