How to Easily Remove and Install Bike Pedals: A Simple Guide

Updated at: 25/02/2025

Bike pedals, while seemingly simple components, can present a frustrating challenge when it comes to removal and installation. Whether you're performing routine maintenance, upgrading your pedals for a performance boost, or simply replacing a worn-out pair, understanding the proper technique is crucial to avoid damage to your bike or injury to yourself. Stripped threads or a stubborn pedal can quickly turn a simple task into a major headache, costing you valuable time and potentially requiring professional assistance. This often stems from a lack of knowledge about the correct tools and the crucial directional considerations involved.

This guide provides a straightforward, step-by-step approach to easily remove and install your bike pedals, ensuring a smooth and successful process every time. We'll cover the necessary tools, explain the crucial left-hand/right-hand thread difference, and walk you through each step with clear instructions and helpful visuals. Let's get started with the simple, yet effective methods detailed below.

Safety Guidelines

Always use the correct size wrench for your pedals. Using the wrong size can strip the pedal threads, making them impossible to remove or install.
Pedals are usually right-hand threaded (clockwise to tighten) and left-hand threaded (counter-clockwise to tighten). Confusing this can damage the crank arms. Remember: Righty-tighty, lefty-loosey only applies to the right pedal.
Wear gloves to protect your hands and get a good grip on the pedals, especially if they're stubborn.

Methods: Removing and Installing Pedals with an Allen Wrench

Tools Needed

Allen wrench (6mm or 8mm)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Removing the Right Pedal
- Start with the right-hand pedal. Rotate the crank forward.
- Insert the Allen wrench into the pedal, facing the front of the bike.
- Place your foot on the pedal and pull the wrench backward towards you to loosen the pedal.
- Once loose, unscrew the pedal completely.
Removing the Right Pedal
Removing the Left Pedal
- Repeat steps 1-4 for the left-hand pedal, remembering that left-hand pedals are reverse-threaded. You still pull the wrench backward.
Removing the Left Pedal
Reinstalling Pedals
- To reinstall, apply grease to the threads. Put a pedal washer on if you have one.
- Thread the pedal onto the crank, turning the wrench towards the front of the bike to tighten. Don't overtighten.
Reinstalling Pedals

Tips

Left-hand pedals are reverse-threaded. Always pull the wrench backward towards you, regardless of which pedal you're working on.
Identify the correct pedal side by looking for an 'L' or 'R' marking, or by observing the pedal's profile; the leading edge should angle up and away from the ground.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Stripping the Pedal Threads

Reason: Using excessive force or the wrong wrench size (often a 15mm wrench is used for both pedals, but they are sometimes reversed), applying force in the wrong direction, or using a damaged wrench can easily strip the threads on the crank arm or pedal.

Solution: Use the correct size wrench, apply even pressure, and lubricate the threads before installation.

2. Installing Pedals on the Wrong Side

Reason: Left and right pedals have reverse threads. Installing them incorrectly can damage the threads or prevent them from being tightened securely.

Solution: Remember 'righty-tighty, lefty-loosey' applies only to the right pedal; the left pedal threads the opposite way.

3. Over-tightening the Pedals

Reason: Applying too much force when tightening can strip the threads or damage the crank arm or pedal.

Solution: Tighten the pedals firmly but avoid using excessive force; a torque wrench can help.

FAQs

Which way do I turn the pedals to remove them?

Most pedals use a left-hand thread on the left pedal and a right-hand thread on the right pedal. This means you turn the left pedal counter-clockwise (to the left) to remove it, and the right pedal clockwise (to the right) to remove it. Remember 'righty-tighty, lefty-loosey' but reversed for the left pedal.

My pedal is stuck! What should I do?

Try using a pedal wrench with a longer handle for more leverage. Penetrating oil (like WD-40) applied to the threads several hours before attempting removal can help loosen a stuck pedal. If it's still stuck, take your bike to a professional bike mechanic for assistance.

Whether you're replacing worn-out pedals or upgrading to a smoother ride for your little one, knowing how to remove and install them is essential. This guide will walk you through the process. If you're looking for recommendations on top-quality pedals specifically designed for children's bikes, improving their cycling experience, be sure to check out our previous article on for a smoother ride. This will help you choose the perfect pedals before you start this simple installation process.