Pedaling efficiency and ergonomics

[Fat former racer]

So I have this idea but need some more information. In the past, it seems that pedal manufacturers have always strived to get the sole of the shoe as close as possible to the center of the spindle. I think Time has the lowest stack height.

In a perfect world, what would be the ideal location of the spindle? Should it be in line with your metatarsus? How would this affect pedaling?

 

[ustabe]

In a perfect world, what would be the ideal location of the spindle? Should it be in line with your metatarsus? How would this affect pedaling?

Are you talking about the metatarsophalangeal joint? And on which toe?

 

[JayKosta]

I think the main concerns are how foot position affects the toro position for breathing and aerodynamics. I doubt that the mechanics of the foot / ankle are significant.

Jay Kosta
Endwell NY USA

 

[avanti]

Back in the 60's or 70's some pedal (toe clip days) manufacturers tried to minimize stack height with the idea being that a circular pedaling pattern is preferential to an elliptical one. But design issues and reduced ground clearance perhaps ended this idea.
If stack height was important I'm sure pro-tour teams would demand it. In my opinion the stack height provide a little extra leverage at the 12:00 o'clock position.

As far as your second question position your foot relative to the pedal spindle based on your riding style and comfort. Several years ago a contributor (Steve Hogg as I recall) to cyclingnews.com promoted positioning your cleat mid-foot.

 

[ustabe]

I think the main concerns are how foot position affects the toro position for breathing and aerodynamics. I doubt that the mechanics of the foot / ankle are significant.

Jay Kosta
Endwell NY USA

Most coaches and riders put the spindle directly beneath the first three matarsophalanges, or some point several millimeters to several centimeters (almost midfoot) behind.

Foot too far back puts more stress on the feet and calves. Think of what it would be like to walk on tiptoes for five hours. It also necessitates setting the saddle back. I tried it for a while and found it great for spinning faster, but the power suffered.

I also tried close to midfoot, but found it more difficult to pedal smoothly with less foot to articulate with. I've settled on a position that puts the spindle about a centimeter behind the the "ball" and seems to give me a good compromise between power and smoothness. Many others report that putting the cleat a bit behind also relieves pressure on the metatarsal nerves.