🔧 How to Mount Pedals on a Bicycle: A Practical Guide for Cyclists
🔧 How to Mount Pedals on a Bicycle: A Practical Guide for Cyclists
Installing pedals may seem like a simple task, but doing it correctly is essential to avoid damaging your crankset and ensure safe and efficient pedaling. In this guide, we'll walk you through the process of properly installing pedals on your bike, step by step.
🛠️ What You Need
- A pedal wrench (15mm) or a 6/8mm Allen key (depending on the type of pedal)
- Thread grease
- A clean cloth
⚠️ Before You Begin: Pay Attention to the Direction!
The pedals have opposite threads:
- Right pedal (drive side): turns clockwise
- Left pedal: it is screwed in an anti-clockwise direction
Always check the letters R (Right) and L (Left) engraved on the pedal axle to avoid mistakes.
👣 Assembly Steps
1. Cleaning and lubrication
Clean the threads of the crank and pedal. Apply a little grease to make tightening easier and prevent seizure.
2. Screw by hand
Start screwing the pedal in the correct direction using only your fingers. This will help avoid stripping the threads.
3. Tighten with the key
Once the pedal is securely seated, use the pedal wrench or Allen key to tighten it. Don't overtighten; just make sure it's snug.
4. Check the tightening
After a few rides, check that the pedals are still tight. It's good practice to do this periodically.
🧼 Extra Tips
- If you swap pedals frequently (e.g. between road bikes and mountain bikes), consider using washers to protect the cranks.
- Avoid installing pedals dry: the risk of seizure is high, especially on bikes exposed to rain or humidity.
🚴♂️ Want to install bike pedals in a minute?
🎥 Watch the video and find out how to do it step by step!
🔧 Easy, fast and error-free.