3 Simple Steps to Remove Bicycle Pedals

Image of a bicycle pedal

Bicycles are a popular mode of transportation, and one of the most important parts of a bicycle is the pedals. Pedals allow you to propel the bicycle forward, and they can also be used to brake. However, there may come a time when you need to remove the pedals from your bicycle. This could be for a variety of reasons, such as replacing the pedals, cleaning them, or transporting the bicycle. Removing bicycle pedals is a relatively simple task, but there are a few things you need to know before you get started.

The first thing you need to do is gather the necessary tools. You will need a pedal wrench, which is a specialized wrench that is designed to fit the nuts that hold the pedals in place. You can purchase a pedal wrench at most bicycle shops or online. Once you have the necessary tools, you can begin the process of removing the pedals.

To remove the pedals, you will need to first identify the type of pedals that you have. There are two main types of pedals: flat pedals and clipless pedals. Flat pedals are the most common type of pedals, and they are simply attached to the crank arms with a nut. Clipless pedals, on the other hand, require special shoes that clip into the pedals. Once you have identified the type of pedals that you have, you can begin the removal process. For flat pedals, simply use the pedal wrench to loosen the nut that holds the pedal in place. Once the nut is loose, you can remove the pedal by hand. For clipless pedals, you will need to first unclip the shoes from the pedals. Once the shoes are unclipped, you can use the pedal wrench to loosen the bolts that hold the pedals in place. Once the bolts are loose, you can remove the pedals by hand.

Removing Pedals with a Pedal Wrench

Step 1: Identify the correct type of pedal wrench

There are two main types of pedal wrenches: single-sided and double-sided. Single-sided wrenches only fit one size of pedal, while double-sided wrenches can be used on pedals of different sizes. To identify the correct type of pedal wrench, look for the size markings on the wrench itself. The size will be stamped on the wrench in millimeters (mm). The most common pedal wrench sizes are 15mm for single-sided wrenches and 15mm/17mm for double-sided wrenches.

Step 2: Use a 15mm pedal wrench to loosen the pedals

To loosen the pedals, you will need to use a pedal wrench. Place the pedal wrench on the pedal spindle and turn the wrench counterclockwise. Turn the wrench with even force until the pedal loosens. If you encounter any resistance, you can try using a penetrating oil to loosen the threads.

Step 3: Remove the pedals completely

Once the pedals have been loosened, you can remove them completely by hand. To remove the pedals, simply unscrew them from the spindle. The pedals should come off relatively easily.

Left pedal	Right pedal
Unscrew counterclockwise	Unscrew clockwise

Taking Pedals Off Without a Pedal Wrench

If you don’t have a pedal wrench, there are a few other ways you can remove your bike pedals. One method is to use an adjustable wrench. To do this, first loosen the pedal by turning it counterclockwise with your hand. Then, grip the pedal body with the adjustable wrench and turn it counterclockwise to remove it. Be careful not to overtighten the adjustable wrench, as this could damage the pedal body.

Another method for removing pedals without a pedal wrench is to use a hammer and punch. To do this, first place the punch on the pedal spindle and tap it with the hammer to loosen the pedal. Once the pedal is loose, you can remove it by hand.

If you are having difficulty removing your pedals with either of these methods, you can try using a penetrating oil to loosen the threads. Apply the penetrating oil to the pedal threads and let it sit for a few minutes before trying to remove the pedals.

Method	Tools Required
Adjustable wrench	Adjustable wrench
Hammer and punch	Hammer, punch
Penetrating oil	Penetrating oil

Identifying Pedal Types: Single-Sided vs. Double-Sided

Single-Sided Pedals:

Single-sided pedals feature a single binding mechanism on one side of the pedal body. The non-binding side of the pedal is flat or has a platform to allow for comfortable pedaling in regular shoes. These pedals are commonly used on hybrid bikes, city bikes, and some fitness bikes.

Double-Sided Pedals:

Double-sided pedals, also known as clipless pedals, have binding mechanisms on both sides of the pedal body. To use clipless pedals, riders must wear special cycling shoes with compatible cleats that engage with the pedal bindings. This type of pedal allows for a more efficient transfer of power and a secure connection between the rider and the bike. Double-sided pedals are primarily used on racing, performance, and mountain bikes, offering enhanced stability and control.

Comparison of Single-Sided and Double-Sided Pedals

To help you better understand the key differences between the two pedal types, here’s a table summarizing their main characteristics:

Protective Measures: Using a Pedal Holder

A pedal holder is a specialized tool designed to provide a secure grip on the pedal axle, preventing it from slipping or spinning during removal. It’s particularly useful for stubborn pedals or in situations where traditional methods may be ineffective. To use a pedal holder:

Identify the type of pedals you have, as different pedals may require specific pedal holders.
Attach the pedal holder to the pedal axle using the provided bolts or clamps.
Ensure a firm and secure connection between the holder and the pedal.
Position the pedal wrench in the center of the pedal and engage with the axle.
Apply a steady downward force on the wrench while holding the pedal holder stationary to prevent it from rotating.
Loosen or tighten the pedal as needed.
Once the pedal is removed, release the pedal holder and remove it from the axle.

Advantages of Using a Pedal Holder

Disadvantages of Using a Pedal Holder

Secure grip on the pedal axle, preventing slipping

Effective for stubborn pedals

Minimizes the risk of damaging the pedal axle

Requires a specialized tool (pedal holder)

May not be suitable for all types of pedals

Can be more expensive than traditional methods

Loosening Tight Pedals: Applying Lubricant

If the pedals are stuck and difficult to remove, applying lubricant can help loosen them. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Locate the pedals on your bike.
Identify which pedal is the right-hand pedal and which is the left-hand pedal. The right-hand pedal will have a reverse thread, meaning it loosens by turning clockwise.
Apply a penetrating lubricant, such as WD-40 or a bicycle-specific pedal lubricant, to the threads of the pedals.
Let the lubricant penetrate for a few minutes.
Using a wrench or pedal spanner, carefully turn the pedal counterclockwise (for the left-hand pedal) or clockwise (for the right-hand pedal) to loosen it.

Here’s a table summarizing the steps for loosening tight pedals using lubricant:

Step	Description
1	Locate and identify the pedals on your bike.
2	Apply a penetrating lubricant to the pedal threads.
3	Let the lubricant penetrate for a few minutes.
4	Use a wrench or pedal spanner to turn the pedal counterclockwise (left-hand pedal) or clockwise (right-hand pedal) to loosen it.

Distinguishing Left and Right Pedals

Differentiating between the left and right bicycle pedals is crucial to ensure proper installation. Here’s a detailed guide to help you identify them:

Length: The left pedal is typically slightly longer than the right pedal.
Threads: The left pedal has a reverse thread (counterclockwise), while the right pedal has a regular thread (clockwise).
Stamping: In most cases, the left pedal will have the letter “L” or an “R” stamped or engraved on it.
Color Coding: Some manufacturers use color coding to indicate the pedals: red for left and green or blue for right.
Shape: The left pedal might have a slightly longer spindle or a more prominent dust cap on the inner side.
Indicate Mark: The left pedal often has a small indent or mark on the inner side to indicate that it should be facing the rear of the bike when installed.

Additionally, you can use the following table as a quick reference:

Characteristic	Left Pedal	Right Pedal
Length	Longer	Shorter
Threads	Reverse (counterclockwise)	Regular (clockwise)
Stamping	“L” or an “R”	None or “R”
Color Coding	Red	Green or blue
Shape	Longer spindle or prominent dust cap on inner side	No significant shape differences
Indicate Mark	Small indent or mark on inner side	No mark

Reverse Threading: Understanding the Concept

Reverse threading is a unique design feature found on certain bicycle components, such as pedals and freewheels. Unlike regular threading, where the threads tighten by turning clockwise, reverse threading requires turning counterclockwise to tighten and clockwise to loosen. This design is primarily used in mechanisms that experience significant force in one direction, such as bicycle pedals, which are constantly subjected to downward force while pedaling.

The purpose of reverse threading on pedals is to prevent them from loosening during use. As you pedal forward, the downward force tends to tighten the left pedal and loosen the right pedal (vice versa if you’re left-handed). By having reverse threading on the right pedal, it stays secure even under heavy pedaling, preventing any safety hazards caused by loose pedals.

To better illustrate the concept, here’s a table summarizing the threading direction for both left and right pedals:

Pedal	Threading Direction
Left Pedal	Regular (clockwise to tighten)
Right Pedal	Reverse (counterclockwise to tighten)

Ensuring Pedal Threads Are Facing Outward

Before you can remove the pedals, you need to make sure that the pedal threads are facing outward. To do this, simply flip the bike upside down and look at the pedals. The threads should be visible on the outside of the pedals. If they are not, you will need to use a wrench to turn the pedals until the threads are facing outward.

Once the pedal threads are facing outward, you can begin to remove the pedals.

Tool	Description
Pedal wrench	A special wrench designed to fit the flats or hex on the pedal axle.
Allen key	A hex-shaped wrench that fits into the bolt on the end of the pedal axle.
Penetrating oil	A lubricant that helps to loosen rusted or seized bolts and threads.

Proper Torque Application: Achieving the Ideal Tightness

Dialing in the Perfect Tightness

Achieving the correct pedal tightness is crucial for both safety and performance. Pedals that are too loose can slip and disengage, while excessively tight pedals can be difficult to remove and may damage the crank arm threads.

Determining Optimal Torque

The recommended torque for bicycle pedals varies depending on the pedal and crank arm model. Consult the manufacturer’s specifications or use a general torque range of 35-40 foot-pounds (47-54 Nm).

Using a Torque Wrench

A torque wrench is the most precise tool for applying the correct torque to pedals. Set the torque wrench to the desired value, attach it to the pedal, and tighten the pedal clockwise until the wrench clicks or indicates that the specified torque has been achieved.

Tightening Without a Torque Wrench

If a torque wrench is not available, use a bicycle-specific pedal wrench or a standard wrench with caution. Tighten the pedals as snugly as possible by hand, then use the wrench to give them an additional quarter to half turn (90-180 degrees).

Avoiding Overtightening

Overtightening pedals can damage the crank arm threads. If the pedal becomes difficult to tighten, stop immediately and check for any damage. If in doubt, consult a bicycle mechanic.

Additional Tips

Use a little grease or anti-seize compound on the pedal threads to prevent corrosion and make future removal easier.
Tighten both pedals in the same direction to ensure even tension.
Recheck pedal tightness periodically, especially after significant riding or maintenance.

Tools You’ll Need

To remove and reinstall bicycle pedals, you’ll need the following tools:

15mm (9/16-inch) open-end wrench or pedal wrench
Allen key (if your pedals have recessed screws)
Loctite or equivalent thread locker

Removing Pedals

Before removing the pedals, make sure they are parallel to the bike’s frame to avoid damaging the crank arms.

Identify the “left” and “right” pedals by the inscriptions on their ends.
Insert the appropriate wrench or tool into the pedal’s axle.
For right-hand pedals (drive side): Hold the bike still and turn the wrench clockwise (as viewed from the rear).
For left-hand pedals (non-drive side): Hold the bike still and turn the wrench counterclockwise (as viewed from the rear).

Reinstalling Pedals: Correct Alignment and Tightening

To ensure proper alignment and tightness, follow these steps when reinstalling the pedals:

Apply a small amount of Loctite or thread locker to the threads of the pedal.
Screw the pedal into the crank arm by hand, ensuring it threads smoothly.
Use the wrench or tool to tighten the pedal, turning it clockwise for the right-hand pedal and counterclockwise for the left-hand pedal.
Check the tightness by attempting to rotate the pedal in the wrong direction. It should not move.
Reinstall the pedal cap if it has one.

How to Take Off Bicycle Pedals

Removing bicycle pedals is a relatively simple task that can be completed with a few basic tools. Here are the steps on how to do it:

Gather your tools. You will need a 15mm wrench or pedal wrench, a rag, and some penetrating oil (optional).
Identify the type of pedals you have. Most pedals have a right-hand and left-hand thread. The right-hand pedal is typically marked with an “R” or “RD” and the left-hand pedal is marked with an “L” or “LD.
Loosen the pedals. Using the wrench, turn the right-hand pedal clockwise to loosen it. Turn the left-hand pedal counterclockwise to loosen it.
Remove the pedals. Once the pedals are loose, you can remove them by hand or by using the wrench to gently pry them off the crank arms.
Clean the threads. Use the rag to clean the threads on the crank arms and pedals. This will help prevent them from seizing up when you reattach the pedals.
Apply penetrating oil (optional). If the pedals are particularly difficult to remove, you can apply a small amount of penetrating oil to the threads. This will help to loosen them up.
Reattach the pedals. To reattach the pedals, simply reverse the steps above. Be sure to tighten the pedals by hand until they are snug, then use the wrench to tighten them further.