How to Service Bike Pedals: A Step-by-Step Guide

Updated at: 24/02/2025

Bike pedals, often overlooked in routine maintenance, are crucial components contributing significantly to your riding experience. Smooth, efficient pedaling relies heavily on properly functioning pedals, free from grit, grime, and the inevitable wear and tear of regular use. Neglecting their upkeep can lead to creaking, slippage, and ultimately, potential mechanical failure during your rides – a frustrating experience nobody wants. Beyond simple cleaning, regular servicing ensures your pedals remain responsive and reliable, maximizing your power transfer and overall enjoyment.

This is especially important for those who regularly ride in challenging conditions like mud or rain. To keep your pedals spinning smoothly and efficiently, follow the step-by-step guide below, which will take you through the process of disassembling, cleaning, lubricating, and reassembling your bike pedals effectively.

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • 15mm spanner or wrench
  • Screwdriver
  • Pliers
  • 12mm socket
  • Vice or clamp
  • Container (ideally magnetic)
  • Paraffin or degreaser
  • Grease
  • Vernier caliper (optional)
  • Small brush or cloth
Safety Guidelines
  • Always work in a well-lit, stable area. Use a bike stand if possible to keep the bike secure and prevent accidental falls.
  • Use the correct tools for the job. Attempting to force a pedal with the wrong tool can strip the threads or damage the crank arm.
  • Before starting, make a note of which pedal goes on which side (Left pedals are reverse threaded). This prevents frustration later on.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Remove Pedals

    • Remove pedals using a 15mm wrench. Remember, the left pedal unscrews clockwise, and the right pedal unscrews counter-clockwise.
    • Use the wrench at a low angle to the crank for better leverage.
    Use the wrench at a low angle to the crank for better leverage.Use the wrench at a low angle to the crank for better leverage.
    Remove Pedals

  2. Remove Dust Cap

    • Remove the dust cap using a screwdriver.
    Remove the dust cap using a screwdriver.
    Remove Dust Cap

  3. Disassemble Pedal

    • Undo the lock nut using a 12mm socket.
    • Remove the washer using pliers.
    • Remove the cone using pliers or a flat-bladed screwdriver.
    • Remove the bearings, carefully supporting the axle to prevent them from falling out. Use a container to collect the bearings.
    Remove the bearings, carefully supporting the axle to prevent them from falling out. Use a container to collect the bearings.Remove the bearings, carefully supporting the axle to prevent them from falling out. Use a container to collect the bearings.Remove the bearings, carefully supporting the axle to prevent them from falling out. Use a container to collect the bearings.Remove the bearings, carefully supporting the axle to prevent them from falling out. Use a container to collect the bearings.
    Disassemble Pedal

  4. Clean and Inspect Components

    • Clean the bearings, axle, and pedal body with paraffin or degreaser.
    • Count the bearings to ensure you have all of them (13 in this example).
    Count the bearings to ensure you have all of them (13 in this example).Count the bearings to ensure you have all of them (13 in this example).
    Clean and Inspect Components

  5. Reassemble Pedal

    • Grease the bearing cups.
    • Carefully insert the bearings back into the cups, using grease to hold them in place.
    • Grease the axle.
    • Insert the axle through the bearings.
    Insert the axle through the bearings.Insert the axle through the bearings.Insert the axle through the bearings.Insert the axle through the bearings.
    Reassemble Pedal
    • Screw the cone onto the axle.
    • Install the washer and lock nut.
    • Carefully tighten the lock nut, avoiding over-tightening which could damage the bearings. Use a vise to hold the pedal securely while tightening.
    • Add a dust cap.
    Add a dust cap.Add a dust cap.Add a dust cap.Add a dust cap.
    Reassemble Pedal

  6. Repeat for Other Pedal

    • Repeat steps 3-17 for the other pedal.
    Repeat steps 3-17 for the other pedal.
    Repeat for Other Pedal

  7. Reinstall Pedals on Bike

    • Reinstall the pedals onto the bike.
    Reinstall the pedals onto the bike.
    Reinstall Pedals on Bike

Read more: Silence Creaky Look Pedals & Cleats: A Permanent Beeswax & Xylene Solution

Tips

  • Use a low angle when using the spanner to maximize leverage.
  • Support the axle from underneath when removing bearings to prevent them from falling out.
  • Use a magnetic container to easily collect the bearings.
  • Check for any remaining bearings after removal.
  • Use a syringe to easily apply grease into the bearing cups.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Stripping Pedal Threads

Reason: Over-tightening the pedals during installation, using the wrong wrench size, or applying force at the wrong angle can easily strip the threads on either the pedal or the crank arm.
Solution: Use the correct size Allen key or wrench and apply even, firm pressure; avoid excessive force.

2. Incorrect Pedal Orientation (Left vs. Right)

Reason: Installing the pedals on the wrong side can lead to a frustrating inability to get them screwed in properly, and potential damage.
Solution: Remember that the right pedal threads in clockwise, and the left pedal threads in counter-clockwise.

FAQs

My pedals are creaking. What's the likely cause?
Creaking pedals usually indicate a lack of lubrication or dirt/grit buildup between the pedal spindle and the crank arm. Try cleaning and regreasing the pedal threads and spindle.
What type of grease should I use for my bike pedals?
A waterproof, high-quality bicycle grease is recommended. Avoid using anything too thin, as it will wash away easily. A marine grease is also a good option for wet conditions.
Regular maintenance is key to maximizing the lifespan and performance of your pedals, regardless of the type. This guide will walk you through the process. Choosing the right pedals is just as important, however; if you're looking for recommendations on high-performance touring pedals, you might find our previous article on the best options for comfortable and efficient cycling helpful. Understanding how to service your chosen pedals will ensure they continue to deliver the comfort and performance you expect.