Danube tour - what pedals?

[Hackster]

I'm lucky enough to be doing a Danube tour later this year. It's an 8-day self-guided ride next to the river on a paved track. Luggage is transported separately.

 

Bikes supplied are TREK 7300 FX hybrids.

 

It's an easy ride, flat in the most part, most days are 50 km, the longest day is 77 km. We'll probably be doing a fair amount of walking around in towns en route.

 

The hire bike comes with flat pedals but you can have your own pedals fitted too.

 

So what pedals?

 

I'm not keen on the flats, because I haven't used them in three decades - worried that they'll feel uncomfortable through my tackies. I also don't know exactly what type of flats they'll be.

 

Road or MTB pedals are great but the associated shoes aren't designed for walking around in comfort which means I'd have to take a pair of walking shoes along each day.

 

Is it worth buying a pair of 'touring shoes', something that's SPD compatible but with comfortable walking soles?

 

 

[RussD1]

Hi Hackster,

 

My brother just completed the Danube River Route (source to Black Sea). It is an amazingly flat route.

 

I'd go with just a flat pair of takkies, perhaps with thicker than normal soles, as you are concerned about feeling the pedals through them.

 

As there are virtually no hills and you'll be riding such relatively short distances, you don't need cleated shoes, imho.

 

You will appreciate the convenience of being able to readily walk, when you get to towns, villages, points of interest, etc.

 

Enjoy the trip.

 

Cheers!

 

Russ.

[Sepia]

Hi Hackster

I am with you and cannot get used to flat pedals at all.   No matter how hard I try. (Old school)

I have the Serfas and the Shimano touring shoes and they allow me to walk around very comfortably.

I even wear them here at work on tiled floors with no problem.