How Do You Change Pedals On A Bike

This guide explains how to approach how do you change pedals on a bike, including the preparation, practical steps, common mistakes, and final checks that help you finish with confidence.

10-15 Minutes Time needed

Beginner Difficulty

Mixing up threads Watch out for

Before You Start

Gathering your tools and understanding the parts you're working with is the key to a smooth and successful pedal swap. A few minutes of preparation will save you a lot of potential frustration.

What You Need

Safety, Timing, and Context Checks

The most important thing to understand is that your two pedals are not the same. They have different threads to prevent them from unscrewing while you ride.

Check first: Your new pedals should be marked with an 'L' for the left side and an 'R' for the right side. Installing them on the wrong side will damage the threads in your bike's crank arms, which can be an expensive repair.

How to Change Pedals on a Bike

Quick Reference

Common Problems When You Change Bike Pedals

Even a simple job can have its hitches. Here are some common issues you might encounter and how to solve them.

The Pedal is Completely Stuck

This is the most frequent problem, usually caused by pedals installed dry (without grease) years ago. First, make sure you are turning it the correct way! If you are, you just need more leverage. Try slipping a hollow pipe over the handle of your spanner to make it longer, which gives you more turning force. You can also apply a penetrating oil (like WD-40 Specialist Penetrant) to the area where the pedal enters the crank, let it soak in for 15-30 minutes, and then try again.

The Spanner or Allen Key is Slipping

If your tool keeps slipping, the flats on the pedal axle or the hex socket might be rounded off from previous attempts. Ensure you are using a high-quality tool that fits snugly. For Allen keys, make sure it is pushed all the way into the socket before you apply force. Wiggling it as you push can help it seat fully. If the axle is already damaged, you may need a specialist tool or a trip to the bike shop.

You're Worried About Cross-Threading

Cross-threading happens when you force a pedal in at the wrong angle, destroying the soft aluminium threads of the crank arm. The golden rule is to always start threading by hand. The pedal should turn easily for several rotations with just your fingers. If you feel any binding or resistance right away, stop. Unscrew it completely and carefully try to align it again. Never use the spanner to force a pedal that won't go in by hand.

Advanced Tips for Changing Bike Pedals

Once you've mastered the basics, these tips can help you do the job like a professional mechanic.

Using a Torque Wrench

For expensive carbon fibre cranks or for riders who want absolute precision, a torque wrench is the ideal tool for installation. It allows you to tighten the pedal to the exact specification recommended by the manufacturer, preventing damage from over-tightening. Most pedals have a recommended torque setting between 30-40 Newton-metres (Nm). Always check the manuals for your specific cranks and pedals for the correct value.

What About Pedal Washers?

Some new pedals come with very thin washers. These are not always necessary but can be beneficial. A washer provides a protective barrier between the hard steel body of the pedal and the softer aluminium surface of your crank arm, preventing the pedal from digging in and scarring the finish. They can also help ensure the pedal tightens down perfectly flat if the surface of your crank arm is not perfectly smooth. If your pedals came with them, it's generally a good idea to use them.