How often should I switch my bicycle pedals?

Pedals should be replaced if they show signs of wear or damage. Examples include slippery surfaces, defective click mechanisms or bearing play. A regular inspection is recommended. A change may also be necessary if the intended use changes or if you are going on a bike trip – in this case, it may make sense to switch from pure platform pedals to clipless pedals or one-sided clipless pedals, as they allow you to pedal with less effort.

Can I install any type of pedals to my bike?

Basically yes, because almost all current cranks and pedals are equipped with 9/16 inch threads. Just make sure that the pedals are compatible with the area of use of your bike and, in the case of clipless pedals, with your cycling shoes. Pedals used on mountain bikes, for example, differ from pedals that are usually used on road bikes.

In which direction are bicycle pedals unscrewed and fitted?

The threads of bicycle pedals are milled in such a way that they do not loosen but tighten when riding. When unscrewing, you must loosen the pedals with the pedal wrench against the riding direction – both left and right. When screwing them in, screw them in the riding direction.

What should I look out for when maintaining the pedals?

Keep the pedals clean and look out for signs of wear such as bearing play or decreasing spring tension on clipless pedals.

What to do if the pedals crack?

If you regularly hear a cracking noise coming from the direction of the pedals, this is often caused by friction between the shoes, cleats and pedals of clipless pedals. Parts of the click mechanism can also make unpleasant noises. However, a lack of grease in the thread is a particularly the most common source of noise for all pedal types. You can find out how to remedy this in our guide on the topic of " Cracking on bikes ".

ADVICE / REPAIR & MAINTENANCE

Change Bike Pedals

How to change the pedals on your bike – in 3 easy steps

> Find the Right Tools
> View the Step-by-Step Guide

Man in a bike workshop changing the pedals on an MTB

Would you like to switch to clipless pedals, fit lighter pedals or do your current pedals have bearing damage? This guide will show you how you can easily replace your pedals yourself.

Replacing Pedals – In a Short

These exciting topics await you:

Step-by-Step Guide

FAQs and Answers from our BIKE24-Expert

Close-up of the tool you need to change the bicycle pedals

WHAT YOU NEED

What You Need to Change Your Pedals

Before you get started, make sure you have all the necessary materials and tools ready. You will need the following to replace the bicycle pedals

Pedal wrench (SW15 open-end wrench or 6 or 8 mm Allen key, depending on pedal type)
Bike grease
Penetrating oil (for seized pedals)
Cloth for cleaning
Torque wrench (optional)
Assembly stand (optional)

... and of course your new bike pedals. Take a look around – we have a wide range of pedals for every type of bike.

Shimano

PD-EH500 Explorer SPD-Pedal - dark grey

Shimano

Ultegra PD-R8000 SPD-SL Pedal - black

Favero Electronics

Assioma Duo Powermeter Pedals - black

Shimano

105 PD-R7000 SPD-SL Pedal - black/grey

Changing Bike Pedals – Step-by-Step Guide

The following three steps will show you exactly what you should look out for when replacing pedals

Close-up of a man tightening a new bicycle pedal

STEP 1

How to Remove the Pedals

To remove the old pedals, clamp the bike securely in the assembly stand or set it down safely. It is important that you hold the bike securely, as pedals are tightened with a high tightening torque (40 Nm), which requires a lot of force when loosening. Now loosen the pedals with the pedal wrench in the correct direction (against the direction of travel):

Loosen the right pedal: Turn the pedal counterclockwise (to the left) to loosen it.
Releasing the left pedal: Turn the pedal clockwise (to the right) to release it.

Our expert tip: If pedals have been mounted to a bike for a long time, they may be very tight. Apply some penetrating oil (e. g. WD-40) to the thread and leave it to work for a few minutes. This should make it easier to release the bicycle pedal.

Repair Pedal Thread Cutter - 1 pair

Close-up of the preparation of a new pedal

STEP 2

Preparing Your New Pedals

After you have removed the old pedals, first apply a thin layer of grease to the threads of the new pedals. This protects the thread and prevents the pedals from creaking or cracking later on when riding.

Our expert tip: If you are riding a high-end carbon crank or want to fit power meter pedals, you should usually have the appropriate washers ready now. They ensure optimum pressure distribution between the crank and pedal.

SRAM

Butter Grease 29 ml

DT Swiss

Multipurpose Grease for Hubs 20g - HXTXXX00NMG20S

Muc-Off

Bio Grease 150g

Dynamic

All Round Grease Premium - 200ml

Person looses the pedals with the pedal wrench

STEP 3

How to Install Your New Pedals

Now you can screw on the new pedals. Pay attention to the markings on the pedals: "L" and "R" for left and right.

Now screw the right pedal, if necessary with a washer, clockwise (to the right) to the right crank arm by hand and then screw the left pedal to the left crank arm counterclockwise (to the left). Finally, tighten it completely with the pedal wrench.

Our expert tip: Pay attention to the torque specified by the pedal manufacturer (30-40 Nm). Use the torque wrench for maximum accuracy.