Phil Brown wrote:
> Modern bikes used with clipless pedals can have lower BBs
> than bikes using toeclips. I built one with a real low
> 9-3/4" BB as an experiment and you need to ride it with
> clipless pedals otherwise the clips ground when you're
> putting your foot in.
Well strictly speaking there is not a "need" to grind the toeclips while getting in -- with practice you can get into the clips with no grinding even with a very low BB. It certainly is easier to get in on a bike with a 10-1/2" BB height though - no special technique needed.
I've known some builders who built touring bikes with a higher BB than their racing bikes, on the theory that racers were more likely to learn the technique, and/or accept some toeclip grinding in exchange for better handling. Tourists are often in no hurry to get into the clips and might ride a while with clips dangling.
Mark Bulgier
Seattle WA USA