Remove and Replace Bike Pedals Easily | No More Stuck Pedals

You’ve taken your electric bike on all kinds of trips—whether it’s heading to work, running errands, or just enjoying the ride. With all that use, it’s no surprise your pedals might need replacing eventually.

Planning to take it to a bike shop for repairs? No need! You can easily swap out those pedals yourself and save some cash.

This guide will show you how to do it, step by step, so you can get back on the road in no time.

Tools and Setup

Before you dive in, you’ll need to round up a few tools. The tools you’ll need can vary depending on the kind of bike pedals your bike has. Here’s a quick list:

• Pedal Wrench: A pedal-specific wrench is often the go-to tool for this job. If you don’t have one, a 15mm open-end wrench can work in a pinch.
  
  
• Allen Key (Hex Wrench): Most modern pedals need an Allen key, usually 6mm or 8mm, to get them off or on.
  
  
• Grease: A good grease is a must for lubricating the pedal threads and crank arms, ensuring everything goes on smoothly and doesn’t get stuck later on.

                  

Setting Up the Bike

1. Get Your Bike in Position: Start by setting your bike on a stable surface. If you have a bike stand, it makes things easier by keeping the bike off the ground. If not, just lay the bike on its side or lean it against a wall.
   
   
2. Know Your Pedals: Keep in mind, the pedals are threaded differently. The right pedal (the side with the chain) has a regular thread (tightens clockwise), while the left pedal (non-chain side) has a reverse thread (tightens counterclockwise). This design makes sure the pedals don’t loosen while you ride.

How to Remove the Pedals

1. Removing the Left Pedal (Non-Chain Side)

The left pedal is reverse-threaded, which means you’ll need to turn it clockwise to remove it.

• Line Up the Crank Arm: Rotate the crank arm so it’s pointing downward. This position gives you better leverage.
  
  
• Attach the Allen Key or Wrench: Insert the Allen key into the pedal axle or place the wrench on the pedal flat.
  
  
• Turn Clockwise: With some pressure, turn the tool clockwise. It might take a bit of force at first, but once it loosens, you should be able to unscrew it by hand.
  
  
• Take Off the Pedal: Once it’s loose, keep turning until the pedal comes off completely.

2. Removing the Right Pedal (Chain Side)

The right pedal has a normal thread, so it unscrews counterclockwise.

• Line Up the Crank Arm: Rotate the crank arm so it’s pointing downward for better leverage.
  
  
• Attach the Allen Key or Wrench: Insert the Allen key into the pedal axle or place the wrench on the pedal flat.
  
  
• Turn Counterclockwise: With some pressure, turn the tool counterclockwise. Once it’s loose, unscrew it by hand.
  
  
• Take Off the Pedal: Keep turning until the pedal comes off completely.

How to Install New Pedals

Now that the old pedals are off, it’s time to put the new ones on. Remember, the threads are directional, so be sure you’re putting each pedal on the correct side.

Prepping the Pedals

Clean the Threads: Before you install the new pedals, make sure the threads on both the pedals and crank arms are clean. Dirt or grime can mess up the threading.

Grease It Up: Slap a good amount of grease on the pedal threads. This will help with installation and make sure the pedals don’t get stuck later.

Installing the Right Pedal (Chain Side)

Get the Pedal in Place: Position the pedal at the crank arm’s threaded hole. Make sure it’s aligned right to avoid cross-threading.

Hand Tighten: Start by screwing the pedal in by hand, turning it clockwise. This makes sure the threads are catching right and aren’t getting messed up.

Tighten with a Tool: Once it’s hand-tightened, grab your Allen key or pedal wrench and tighten it fully. Insert the Allen key from the opposite side and turn clockwise until it’s snug. Make sure it’s tight, but don’t go overboard, as that could damage the threads.

Installing the Left Pedal (Non-Chain Side)

Get the Pedal in Place: Position the pedal at the crank arm’s threaded hole, aligning it properly to avoid cross-threading.

Hand Tighten: Start by screwing the pedal in by hand, turning it counterclockwise. This ensures the threads are catching properly.

Tighten with a Tool: Once it’s hand-tightened, use the Allen key or pedal wrench to tighten the pedal fully. Insert the Allen key from the opposite side and turn counterclockwise until it’s snug.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Changing pedals might seem easy, but there are some common pitfalls that can make it more challenging:

Cross-Threading: Always start threading the pedals by hand. Cross-threading can wreck the crank arm, leading to expensive repairs.

Over-Tightening: While it’s important to make sure the pedals are secure, over-tightening can damage the crank arms. Tighten until the pedal is snug, but don’t go crazy with the force.

Skipping the Grease: Grease is key for easy pedal installation and removal. Skipping this step can cause the pedals to seize up, making future removal tough.

Final Tips for Pedal Care

• Check Your Pedals Regularly: It’s smart to check your pedals every few rides to make sure they’re still tight. Loose pedals can mess up the crank arm threads.
  
  
• Use the Right Tools: Always use the right tools for the job. Using the wrong tool can strip the bolts or make the job harder than it needs to be.
  
  
• Keep Threads Clean: Dirt and grime can build up in the threads over time. Regularly cleaning the threads and reapplying grease can extend the life of your pedals and crank arms.

FAQs

Can I use any type of pedals on my e-bike, or do I need specific ones?

While most pedals are universal, it’s a good idea to choose pedals that match your riding style.

For instance, if you do a lot of off-road biking, consider pedals with more grip. Always check your e-bike's manual for any specific recommendations.

Do I need to lubricate the pedals after installation?

Yes, it’s a good idea to apply a bit of grease to the pedal threads before installing them. This helps prevent rust and makes it easier to remove the pedals in the future.

How can I tell if my pedal threads are stripped or damaged?

If you notice that the pedals are difficult to screw in or they wobble even when fully tightened, the threads might be stripped.

In such cases, it’s best to have the crank arm inspected and possibly replaced if the damage is severe.