I sport platforms on the mtn bike. Clipless and basket cages have caused nothing but problems.

Just got back from a 47 miler.

Platform pedals are for stunts, downhill, BMX and stuff like that where a crash is pretty typical, that way you don't have to clip out to eject. Cages are for Huffys from Wal Mart. Clipless pedals are for "cyclists" when you want to access full power from your pedal stroke. You can pull up as well as push down. In theory you should have equal power all the way around the pedal circle. Computrainers have a spin scan function that will analyze your pedal stroke and tell you how efficient you are pedaling.

Platforms are for guys who don't need to be locked in like a lil bitch who can't pedal without them. Real Racers don't have baby dorks and don't need clipless.

Me and my buddy rode platforms placing in the top 5 for x-country races for 3 seasons during high school. One of the bigger races of a few hundred riders he placed 2nd and I was 7th, both of us on platforms. So, honestly they don't do much for you unless you are Bob or Lance.

I've got clipless on the road bike and yes I push/pull there, although when I'm feeling lazy I'm only pushing rendering the clipless useless.

You should have kept up with the riding, you could have been the first one to win the Tour de France with platforms and knobbies. Times have come a long way, and clipless pedals help a lot, if you are trying to be competitive. If you just do some light trail riding then who cares really, but you can put MUCH more power to the ground with clipless. If you check out a WORS race, you are right, out of a thousand racers, there will be someone with platforms there. He will be the one finishing DFL in Citizen with ripped jean shorts, German helmet, and wife beater.

That will be me.

Sorta like your old avatar no?

Water fall Glen is okay as of May 7.

I just can't imagine riding without my Shimano 520 pedals.
Like they said more power when you can pull and push and the same time.
Mountain biking with platforms up hill without studs is damn hard, your shoes are sliding all over the place.
On the beginnig I have to say I crashed couple of times because of them but now I can eject very quick.
Clipons are helping with jumping over logs, ruts etc.
520's have adjustment how hard you want to be clipped, thats great for beginners.
You should try clipons, but before you go to park tray them in a garage (clip and un-clip), you do not want to stop and fall.