Putting pedals on your pit bicycle is just as easy as installing pedals onto your primary bike. You will want the same type of pedals on both bikes. Having your pit bike set up like your primary bike allows an easy transition between the bikes. And using the same type of pedals on both bikes means you do not have to swap out shoes. You will find a pit bike useful in many cycling events, especially when mud is likely to gather on the bike and in the pedals. With a fresh bike waiting, you can swap out a dirty bike or a clean one.
Remove Old Pedals
Step 1
Decide which tool to use. If your pit bike has pedals on it, take these off. Depending on the type of pedal, you can use a pedal wrench or an Allen tool. If there are two opposing flat sides on the pedal spindle, you can use the wrench. Pedals with a six-sided hole in the backside can be removed with an Allen wrench. Some pedals can be removed either way, but some cannot.
Step 2
Thread out pedals. The right-handed pedal, on the drive train side, has a right-hand thread and is removed counter-clockwise. The left pedal has a left-hand thread and is removed clockwise. With the pedal you are removing facing the front the bike, line your tool up along with the crank, toward the back of the bike. Then push down.
Step 3
Discard old pedals. If you do not want to keep these pedals, consider selling them or donating them to a bike shop to avoid mixing them up with your current type of pedal.
Install New Pedals
Step 1
Grease the threads. On the new pedals, put a little grease on the threads, wiping off any extra. Wipe away any dirt on the crank where the pedal will be inserted.
Step 2
Thread the pedals on. Identify the right and left pedals. Refer to the product information as some pedals can be placed on either side to change the amount of float. You can use the tools to help thread the pedals or your fingers.
Step 3
Tighten the pedals. Once the pedals are on snugly on the crank arms, hold the appropriate tool in one hand and grab the other crank arm with your other hand. This position allows for leverage to finish tightening the pedal. You want the pedal tight, but not overly tightened. Typically, pedals are tightened to 360 inch-pounds or 30 foot-pounds.
Step 4
Test ride the bike. After installing the pedals, take the bike for a few rides to make sure the pedals and all the other components fit, feel and work the same as your primary race bike before putting this bike in the pit.
References
- Bicycling Magazine's Complete Guide to Bicycle Maintenance and Repair, 1994
- Park Tool: Pedal Installation and Removal
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