Abstract: A pedal is provided with a frontal half hoop or ring. A plastic cleat attached to the shoe of the cyclist has a circular plate that fits the loop or ring. Registry is achieved by a pin or hook that projects forwardly of the plate. The pin or hook captures the hoop or ring. To engage the coupling, the cleat is outwardly pivoted and then returned so that companion rigid clips on the cleat and the pedal interlock. A detent retracts downwardly as the clips move into engagement. Such downward movement is effected by a moderately sloped first cam surface; an adjoining steeply sloped second cam locking surface of the detent keeps the cleat in locked position. In an unlatched position, force can yet be effectively applied to the pedal whereby so that unrestrained complete separation or full latching are options while the bicycle is operated.