How to Remove Bike Pedals In Just 5 Minutes? Easy Steps
Are you wondering how to remove bike pedals? We got you. Continue reading to learn more.
When you ride your bike on a regular basis for an extended period of time, your pedals will wear out and need to be changed.
It is vital to install brand new bike pedals to ensure that riding the bike is both safe and enjoyable. It also makes it more comfortable for riders and saves time while dealing with minor pedal issues.
It can be confusing for someone who isn’t used to changing a bicycle pedal because the pedals aren’t screwed in the same way on both sides. Because we understand how difficult it might be for a complete novice to install pedals on their own, we’ve put together this quick guide to aid you.
Let’s move forward towards answering your question, “how to remove bike pedals?”
How to Remove Bike Pedals Quickly
Make sure you have the tools you’ll need to remove and replace the bike pedals before you start.
Some of the most critical tools you’ll need for this profession include:
Grease that is water-resistant
Even though your pedals don’t need as much lube as your chain or gears, greasing them before and after repair makes turning the wrenches easier. It also helps to protect threads and ensures a smoother ride.
Allen key wrench or hex wrench
It’s a little hand-held tool for tightening or loosening hexagonal sockets. They come in a wide range of sizes, so make sure you get the right one for your bike. To unbolt pedals from the outlet, you’ll need this.
Spanner (wrench) or pedal spanner (pedal spanner)
A 15mm pedal spanner is adequate for removing most pedals. However, depending on the size of your pedals, make sure they are robust and durable, as they can become tough to remove with time.1
Following the instructions below to acquire new pedals now that you have the proper tools to remove and replace the pedals!
To remove bike pedals quickly and efficiently, follow these steps:
Locating the Parts
The drive-side cranks are where the chainrings are located. In the conventional anti-clockwise direction, you can easily unscrew it.
The non-drive side crank must be unscrewed by twisting it clockwise.
It can be difficult to remember where the cranks are and how to get them out if you’re new to this. However, there is a simple way to remember this.
By attaching the wrench or Allen key to the pedals and moving the cranks in a regular direction, you can loosen it while keeping it in place.
Removing the Pedals With an Allen Key
To begin, put the bike on a stand so that you can work on the pedals and wheels more easily. Keep it elevated off the ground and give yourself plenty of areas to flip it upside down.
On the non-drive side, start with the cranks facing down and the Allen key pointing towards the back of the bike.
Simply press down on the Allen key while the bike is on the stand to secure it and prevent the crank from moving forward. If you apply a little pressure, the crank will just fall loose.
Once the crank has been freed, the next step is straightforward. The Allen key’s long end can be put into the crank’s socket and spun clockwise quickly.
Place your hand on the pedal so that when it comes off, you may hold the opposite side.
Rep the process on the driving side, facing the crank downwards and inserting the Allen Key.
The long handle of the Allen key should be pointing towards the back end of the bike. Once it’s in place, push down on the handle with a little force to release the crank.
After unscrewing it, crank it out with the long end of the key, just like you did with the non-drive side.
Also Read: How To Remove Bike Crank Without Puller?
Removing With A Wrench Or A Spanner
A spanner or a wrench can be used to remove and replace a bike pedal if you don’t have an Allen key.
To begin, mount the bike on a bike stand or suspend it above ground level.
This position will be slightly easier if you turn the non-drive side crank forward and get your wrench at roughly the same angle as the ground.
This angle allows you to keep a firmer hold on the pedal while shifting your weight downward. If the pedals come loose unexpectedly, this position is also useful for keeping your hand from hitting a surface.
While putting your weight on the spanner, maintain a standing position with your hand firmly at the same angle as the spanner. With a little pressure on the pedal, it should loosen.
You can easily unwind the rest of the crank with your hand once the pedals are free of the crank.
Reverse the directions on the driving side, with the crank facing forward and the spanner towards the bike’s back. Then press down on the pedal with both hands until it releases.
Replacing Bike Pedals
Follow these steps to replace or change the bike pedals:
Replacing the Pedals With An Allen Key
Before replacing the pedals, make sure the threads are clean. After that, you can apply the waterproof oil to the threads and proceed to the following step.
After confirming that the threads are clean and greased, place the pedal on the crank, roughly in the right position.
Turn the long handle clockwise on the same side as the Allen key and place it on the other side of the pedal. In the meantime, make sure the pedals on the drive side are turned counterclockwise.
Ensure that the pedals are properly attached to the crank by turning them in opposite directions. This is simply performed by twisting the Allen handle continually until it feels almost tight.
By spinning the Allen as tightly as possible, place the key on the long side after it is fully engaged. The Allen key should now be pointing in the direction of the front of the bike.
To confirm that the pedal is properly fastened, place your weight on it and the Allen key.
Rep the same on the non-drive side, ensuring that the crank and thread are clean before applying grease. Then, using your hand, return to a rough position by placing it on the crank.
Once you’ve taken the position, place the Allen key on the opposite side of the crank and turn it clockwise. On the pedal side, you’ll spin it clockwise, and on the driving side, you’ll twist it anti-clockwise.
Put some weight on the Allen key, facing the front, and turn it to make sure it’s tight before it’s completely screwed or engaged.
Replacing the Pedals With A Spanner Or A Wrench
Because both pedals have a similar appearance, determining which belongs on either side might be challenging.
If you look closely, both pedals are marked on the inside of the pedal axle. The one on the left is labeled “L,” while the one on the right is labeled “R.”
Tighten it clockwise on the driving side with your hand. Set the cranks at an angle such that when you engage the spanner, it faces forward towards the front of the bike.
Then, by pressing down on the wrench, tighten and secure it. If your hand slips, you must get it into a safe area or position to avoid injury from the sharp chainrings.
On the non-drive side, repeat the process, initially tightening the cranks with your hand. Make sure the spanner is facing front and tighten it completely.
Finally, examine the axle alignment by reversing the pedal crank and closely inspecting it. As you rotate, keep the pedals aligned in a straight line perpendicular to the crank circle.
FAQs
How Long Does It Take To Remove And Replace Bike Pedals?
The amount of time required varies by individual; some expert handy individuals may complete it in a fraction of the time it takes someone who has never done it before.
How much will it cost you?
There will be no service charge because you will be the one to remove and replace the pedals. The cost of the parts and tools must be kept to a minimum.
Where can I purchase the parts and tools specified above?
You can find them in local bike shops or repair shops, or you can order them from a variety of internet retailers.
Is it possible to get my pedals professionally removed and replaced?
Naturally, your local bicycle repair shop will be happy to assist you.
Conclusion
How to remove bike pedals? There you go. We’ve given the answer to your question.
It’s worth mentioning that newly installed pedals aren’t always easy to spin. Because the bearings need time to break in, this is the case.
Check all of the little details on the pedals before packing up by gently pushing on them to ensure that they are properly connected.
If you see a speck of looseness or if the pedals are spinning too fast, double-check and correct them.
Getting it properly takes some time and effort, but the ride and comfort are well worth it. Wipe away any remaining grease and inspect the bike for any damage during installation.
