Learn Center:
How to REmove &
Install Bike PEdals
Whether you are building a new bike or switching the pedals on your current one, replacing pedals is a simple procedure that should be learned by every rider. This article will explain how to remove and install pedals, so you'll be up and riding in no time.
Tools required:
Many new pedals only require a 6mm Allen wrench (although a specialized model with a long, ergonomic handle are much easier to use).
Most pedals require a special pedal wrench or a thin crescent wrench.
Time required: 10 minutes
Instructions:
Be aware that the left-hand pedal uses a reverse thread (left-hand thread) to avoid automatically unscrewing. This information is good to know, but our instructions will make this easy to remember.
Step 1: First, move the first pedal you are going to remove to front of bike, parallel to the ground.
Step 2: While holding the opposite crankarm steady to stabilize the pedals, insert whichever style of wrench is appropriate for your pedals into the back of the pedal (for Allen wrench- style pedals) or onto the nut that attaches the pedal to the crank (for older-style pedals), then rotate the wrench down and forward -- counter-clockwise.
Step 3: Give it a full turn, then remove the wrench and finish unscrewing the pedal by hand.
Step 4: Repeat on the other side -- again, moving the wrench down and forward will release the pedal.
Step 5: To install new pedals, begin by screwing the pedal in by hand. When it is mostly screwed in, pedal backwards a few times to tighten the screw additionally.
Step 6: Now, align the pedal towards the rear of the bike and use a pedal wrench or Allen wrench to rotate down and back to tighten the pedal. Be gentle -- over tightening could ruin the pedal and/or crankset.
Step 7: Repeat steps 6 and 7 on the other side, and that's it -- you're done!