While recreational bikers usually don't have to worry about changing their pedals, extreme riders must perform the task on a regular basis. Both BMX riders and mountain bikers often damage pedals during slide-outs and high-speed crashes. Lightweight pedals made from plastic composite may crack or chip during high-impact landings. Replace your old pedals with a fresh set to keep your feet stabilized during difficult riding techniques. Professional BMX rider Matt Wilhelm recommends greasing the threads of your crank arms when installing a new set of pedals.
Step 1
Place your hands under the horizontal top tube of your bike frame. Pull up on the top tube to lift the tires of your bike off the ground. Align the vertical seat post in the clamp of the repair stand.
Step 2
Lower the clamp lever to secure your bike in the repair stand. Walk around to the right pedal of your bike. Choose a 15-mm pedal wrench becasue it can fit into even the narrowest of pedal slots.
Step 3
Align the wrench around the threaded nut located on the inner edge of the pedal. Push the wrench handle counterclockwise to loosen the nut. Remove the pedal spindle from the corresponding crank arm.
Step 4
Walk around to the left side of your bike. Rotate the left pedal bolt clockwise, since it features a reverse-style thread. Remove the pedal spindle from the corresponding crank arm.
Step 5
Apply a small amount of waterproof grease into the threads of the crank arms. Align the spindles of your new pedals into the greased crank arm threads. Tighten the pedal nuts with the wrench to complete the maintenance technique.
Things You'll Need
- Bike repair stand
- Pedal wrench
- Waterproof grease
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