Andrew T

My latest bike came with the XT dual controls and they are pretty easy to use. I have the rapid rise derailleur and the difference is that you 'click' to change to and easier gear and 'pull' to get to a harder gear. One of the problems with the dual controls is that it can be difficult to change while braking or, you can inadvertently shift while braking. With rapid rise, this is less of a problem because you normally want to change to easier gears while breaking. Personally I will change to individual shifters/brakes when I next can (probably when I get to change to SRAM)

One of the main things you need out of a pedal is grip - you want to stay on the bike. The pins on this pedal are short and so the pedal may be quite slippery. The pedals that have teeth that eat your flesh out have VERY good grip but may be too much for what you want. (Grip is also linked to the shoes you wear) Tthe most secure pedals will be those with cleats. The type of riding they'll be used with is probably the most important factor in the decision. The more casual/recreational the riding, the more you can choose any pedal that takes your fantasy