Simple Steps to Remove Bike Pedals
Removing bike cranks is a straightforward process, but understanding the right technique and the differences in foot lever threading is crucial. Whether you’re changing your foot levers for upgrades, maintenance, or transport, following these steps will ensure a smooth and safe removal. This guide provides a detailed, step-by-step approach to help you remove bike crank without damaging your bike or tools.
Step 1: Gather the Necessary Tools
Before you begin, ensure you have the right tools:
- Pedal wrench: A 15mm or 9/16″ pedal wrench works best, although an adjustable wrench can suffice.
- Bike grease or lubricant: Optional, but highly recommended for reinstalling or storing foot levers.
Having the right tools makes the job easier, and using a proper foot levers wrench provides better leverage compared to standard tools.
Step 2: Stabilize the Bike
To work efficiently, you need to stabilize the bike:
- Turn the bike upside down (resting on the seat and handlebars) or use a bike stand if available. This keeps the bike steady while you work on the treadles.
- Make sure both treadles and crank arms are easily accessible.
Step 3: Identify the Pedals’ Threading
Understanding treadle threading is essential to avoid confusion:
- Right pedal (drive-side): This treadle has a standard thread, meaning it loosens when turned counterclockwise.
- Left pedal (non-drive-side): The left foot lever has reverse threading, which means it loosens when turned clockwise.
Many beginners confuse this, so be sure you’re turning in the correct direction based on the foot lever you are removing.
Step 4: Loosen the Right Pedal
To start, focus on the right foot lever:
- Rotate the treadle arm so the right foot lever is at the 3 o’clock position.
- Place your wrench on the flat portion of the spindle.
- Turn the wrench counterclockwise to loosen the foot lever. If the treadle feels stiff, use firm but steady pressure until it starts turning.
- Once loosened, unscrew it by hand and remove the treadle.
Step 5: Loosen the Left Pedal
Next, move to the left crank:
- Position the crank arm so the left treadle is at the 9 o’clock position.
- Place your wrench on the spindle, and remember that the left crank loosens by turning clockwise.
- Apply steady pressure to loosen it, then unscrew by hand and remove.
Step 6: Remove and Apply Grease
With both cranks loose:
- Remove the pedals completely by pulling them away from the crank arms. If they feel tight, gently wiggle them until they come off.
- If you’re reinstalling or storing the cranks, consider applying bike grease to the threads. This prevents corrosion and makes future removal easier.
