If you are a mountain bike enthusiast, knowing how to remove pedals from your bike is an essential skill to have. Whether you need to change out your pedals for a different type or simply maintain your bike, this is a task that you will need to do from time to time. Fortunately, it is not a complicated process, and by following a few simple steps, you can easily remove the pedals from your bike.
In this article, we provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to remove pedals on a mountain bike. We cover the tools you will need, different pedal types, and provide tips and tricks to make the process as smooth as possible. By the end of this article, you will have the knowledge and skills required to quickly and easily remove pedals from your mountain bike.
Understanding the Different Types of Pedals
Mountain bikes come with varying types of pedals. Understanding the different types is critical if you want to easily remove them. The two main types of pedals used on mountain bikes are clipless pedals and platform pedals.
Clipless pedals use a cleat mechanism that secures the cyclist’s shoe to the pedal for maximum power transfer while riding. Removing clipless pedals requires the use of a specific tool, as the shaft is threaded into the crankset. Platform pedals, on the other hand, have a flat surface on both sides for the cyclist to place their feet on and provide a more casual riding experience. They are easier to remove as they do not have a cleat mechanism – they are simply screwed onto the crankset. Understanding the type of pedal on your mountain bike is the first step to easily removing it.
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Preparing Your Bike for Pedal Removal
Before removing pedals from your mountain bike, it is necessary to prepare it for the task at hand. You can start off by turning the bike upside down or placing it on a bike stand to get a clear view of the pedals. Remove the wheels so that they do not get in the way during the pedal removal process.
The next step is to gather the tools required for removing the pedals. Pedals require a range of wrench sizes, so it’s important to find the right size for your pedals before starting. You can use either a pedal wrench, an open-end wrench, or a socket wrench depending on what is available to you. Upon finding the right wrenches, you want to ensure they are adjusted correctly by fitting them onto the pedals to check if they are the right sizes. Once you have the correct tools, you can move on to the next subheading of the guide.
Removing Pedals with a Pedal Wrench
Removing pedals with a pedal wrench is the most common method used by bike mechanics. It requires a pedal wrench, which is a type of wrench with a 15mm opening that fits snugly onto the flat section of the pedal axle. To begin, flip the bike over and locate the pedal that needs to be removed. Make sure the bike is securely balanced to avoid any accidents.
Insert the pedal wrench into the axle of the pedal and rotate it counter-clockwise. It may require a considerable amount of force to loosen the pedal, so make sure you have a good grip on the wrench. Once it has been loosened, you can continue to unwind it with your hands. Remember that the left pedal should always be loosened in a counter-clockwise direction, while the right pedal should be loosened clockwise.
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Removing Pedals with a Hex Wrench
Removing pedals with a hex wrench is one of the most common methods used by mountain bikers. It is a quick and easy process that requires only a few basic tools. Firstly, locate the screw at the center of the pedal spindle and place the hex wrench onto it. Turn the wrench counter-clockwise to loosen the screw. You may need to use a bit of force to break the initial resistance but be careful not to apply too much or you risk damaging the bike. Once the screw is loose, place the wrench aside and use your hands to finish unscrewing it. Repeat the process on the other pedal and you will have successfully removed both.
It is important to note that pedals have a left and right orientation. The left pedal’s screw has a counter-clockwise thread while the right one has a clockwise thread. Therefore, when you come to remove them, you’ll need to turn them in opposite directions. Additionally, after removing the pedals, it’s a good idea to clean the threads and apply a small amount of grease before reassembling them. This will help to prevent the pedals from corroding or seizing onto the crank arms, making future removal much easier.
Troubleshooting Common Issues during Pedal Removal
Even with all the right tools and instructions, encounter some common problems during the pedal removal process. One of the most common problems is a stripped pedal wrench socket. If your pedal wrench has been slipping, it may cause a rounded-out pedal flats and prevent you from removing the pedal normally. In this situation, you can try gripping the pedal using a pair of pliers, adding some penetrating oil, and applying a little heat to help break the rust and loosen the pedal.
Another common issue is pedals that may be seized in place due to rust or corrosion. In this case, it is essential to employ tricks such as heat, penetrating oil, and brute force to get the pedals off. If you still cannot remove the pedals even with multiple attempts, it may be time to seek professional help before causing any further damage to the bike’s crank-arm threads.
Installing New Pedals on Your Mountain Bike
Installing new pedals on your mountain bike is a straightforward process that requires only a few tools and a bit of effort. Firstly, ensure that you have purchased the right type of pedals for your bike, matching the thread pattern and spindle length. You might want to invest in a pedal wrench, which provides more leverage and grip while tightening the pedals in place.
Next, remove the dust caps from the crank arm axle and clean the area to ensure a tight grip. Align the threads of the pedal with those of the crank arm and finger tighten them in a clockwise direction. Use the pedal wrench to apply additional force and ensure that the pedals are securely bolted onto the crank arms. Test the pedals by spinning them smoothly and ensuring that there is no wobbling or resistance while in motion. With these simple steps, you can install new pedals on your mountain bike and enjoy a smooth and comfortable ride.
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Maintenance Tips for Avoiding Difficulty with Pedal Removal
Maintaining your pedals is an essential aspect of ensuring that you don’t encounter any difficulty with pedal removal. First, make sure you keep your pedals lubricated to prevent rust from forming. Lubricating the pedals also ensures that they come off more easily during removal, reducing the risk of the threads getting jammed or damaged.
Second, regular cleaning is essential for maintaining your pedals. Accumulation of dirt and grime around the pedal can make the process of removing it much more difficult than necessary. Ensuring your bike and pedals are kept clean on a regular basis will make it easier for you to remove your pedals when necessary. By following these maintenance tips, you prevent the need for extensive force and reduce the risk of injury while removing your pedals.
The Bottom Line
Removing pedals from your mountain bike might seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and a little bit of elbow grease, it can be easily accomplished. Always make sure to take safety precautions and use the proper tools when attempting to remove your pedals. Carefully read your bike’s manual or consult with a professional if you feel unsure about the process. Once the pedals are removed, make sure to keep them clean and well-maintained to prolong their lifespan and performance.
In summary, removing pedals on a mountain bike is a task that can be easily executed with the right tools, knowledge, and precaution. By understanding the different pedal types and their installation methods, you can safely and efficiently remove your bike pedals without causing any damage to yourself or your equipment. With a little bit of practice, you can soon be a pro at removing and installing pedals, allowing you to customize your bike for optimal performance and comfort.