Clipless Pedals

The Shimano style are decent.  I did the same thing as you a few years back.  I had always ridden clips & straps, then when I decided to start riding again the bike I bought had the spd pedals.  I've ridden the same pedals for ~ 4 years and the bearings are just now starting to go out.  I've never once done any maintenance on them & they still clip & release predictably.  It's also nice that they're extremely common.

It was a little painful on my first few rides.  Normally on clips/straps you'd twist your foot to tighten the strap a little when your cranking on the pedals & to release you pull strait back.  The spd's are exactly the opposite so at first I'd release while pedaling or jumping & when I went to put a foot down in a panick the wouldn't release.

Welcome back to Mountain Bikeing

Ryan

I'd go with the Shimano pedals as well, especially for a first timer. They work well and you can adjust the tension on them. Set them low and work your way up as you get used to them. They are also the most compatible with the shoes out there.

Also, check the cleats that they come with. There are two styles for Shimano. There is a single release and a multi release. I don't remember which one unclips easier. They are easy to tell apart since they are different colors (black and silver). The same cleats are used on all their mountain and even some of the road pedals. You shouldn't have to worry about XTR vs LX, etc. with the cleats.

If you are looking to get a deal on the pedals, check the local bike shops. Most of them have a box full of low end pedals that people have swapped out when they buy a new bike. They may not be the greatest, but it's a cheap way to try out clipless pedals.

Finally, if you are going to stick with them, I recommend getting help with positioning the cleats. It can make a world of difference. Some bike shops will offer a discount on a cleat fit when you buy shoes. That and find a nice park with soft grass to fall down in :)

Brent

Thanks for the input guys!  Ill go check out some of the shops and see if I can pick up some used ones for now.

See you on the trail!

Chris

If you have not found a pair of shoes yet, I have a great pair that are too large for me, 47, and have worn them twice, both in dry conditions.  Let me know if you are interested by email alexgillet(at)gmail.com

520 shimano's will serve you well. Do talk to the shop about positioning your cleats. consider also speedplay frogs if you have any kind of knee issues or want lots of float. they can really smoth out your pedalling and the egagment is super easy to get a feel for. ps welcome to pdx.