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Bike Pedal | bike repair​

How to Take Off Bike Pedals Like a Pro

Whether you’re a weekend rider, commuter, or new to bike maintenance, learning how to take off bike pedals will make you feel like a pro. It’s easier than it sounds, but many beginners struggle with stuck pedals or getting the direction wrong. In this guide, we’ll show you exactly how to take off bike pedals using the right tools and techniques, plus some essential tips on installation and maintenance.

The Secret to Effortless Bike Pedals Removal

Before diving into the actual process of removing bike pedals, understanding how pedals work and the difference between the left and right pedals will help you grasp the removal process and avoid damaging your bike due to mistakes.

Pedals Tighten Automatically While Riding

Bicycle pedals operate based on a self-tightening mechanism. When you apply force while pedaling, it causes the pedal to rotate along the direction of the thread, making the pedal tighten further as you ride.

There are two types of pedals: the right pedal (drive-side pedal) and the left pedal (non-drive-side pedal). The drive side refers to the side with the chain drive. The key difference between the two pedals lies in the threading direction. The left pedal uses a reverse thread, while the right pedal uses the standard thread. This design prevents the left pedal from gradually loosening and eventually falling off due to the force applied during pedaling. The reverse threading on the left pedal is a clever solution to avoid this issue.

How to Tell the Difference Between Left and Right Pedals

The threading direction of the left and right pedals is opposite, and if installed incorrectly, the pedals may gradually loosen during use. Over time, this can cause increased wear on the pedal axles and threads, shortening the lifespan of both the pedals and cranks. It can also make future pedal removal much more difficult.

Typically, the left pedal will be marked with an “L” and the right pedal with an “R.” If these markings are absent, you can distinguish them by the threading direction: The right pedal (on the chain side) has a standard right-hand thread, angled upwards to the right, and tightens clockwise. The left pedal has a reverse thread, angled upwards to the left, and tightens counterclockwise.

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Pedal Removal Is Generally the Same for All Types

All pedals are installed using a threaded connection, so the removal process is similar across the board. The general rule is: the right pedal (R) uses a standard right-hand thread and is removed counterclockwise, while the left pedal (L) uses a reverse thread and is removed clockwise.

Common tools for removal include a 15mm wrench, a pedal wrench, or an Allen wrench (usually 6mm or 8mm). A sliding Allen wrench is preferred as it allows you to adjust the position of the handle for better leverage. Some specialized pedals may have non-standard thread sizes or require non-traditional tool sockets, in which case manufacturer-specific tools may be needed.

Step-by-Step: How to Take Off Bike Pedals

Removing Pedals Using a 15mm Wrench or Pedal Wrench

If your pedal spindle has flat surfaces near the crank arm, you’ll need a 15mm wrench to remove it. A dedicated pedal wrench is an even better choice. Follow these detailed steps to remove your pedals:

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  1. Stabilize Your Bike: Place the bike on a stable surface. If you have a bike stand, use it to secure the bike for better stability.
  2. Position the Right Crank Arm: Rotate the right (drive-side) crank arm to the 3 o’clock position, pointing toward the front wheel. This position provides better leverage for removal.
  3. Loosen the Right Pedal: Place the wrench on the flat surface of the spindle near the crank arm. Hold the pedal with your right hand to prevent it from moving. Push the wrench down with your left hand to loosen the pedal. Once it’s loose, rotate it counterclockwise by hand to remove the right pedal.
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  4. Switch to the Left Pedal: Rotate the left (non-drive-side) crank arm toward the front wheel.
  5. Loosen the Left Pedal: Place the wrench on the spindle with your right hand and hold the pedal steady with your left hand. Push the wrench down with your right hand until the pedal loosens. Then, rotate it clockwise by hand to fully remove the left pedal.
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Removing Pedals Using an Allen Wrench (6mm or 8mm)

If your pedal spindle has a recessed hexagonal socket at the end, you’ll need an Allen wrench to remove it. Standard or platform pedals typically require an 8mm Allen wrench, while high-performance or clipless pedals may need a 6mm Allen wrench. To ensure you’re using the correct size, the properly sized Allen wrench should fit snugly into the socket without any looseness.

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Here are the detailed steps:

  1. Stabilize Your Bike: Place the bike on a stable surface or secure it in a bike stand.
  2. Position the Right Crank Arm: Stand on the drive side of the bike and rotate the right crank arm to the 5 o’clock position. This positioning helps prevent your hand from scraping against the chainring during removal.
  3. Loosen the Right Pedal: Insert the short end of the Allen wrench into the socket with the long end pointing toward the front wheel. Push the wrench upward until the pedal loosens. Once loose, use the long end of the wrench to rotate it counterclockwise and fully remove the right pedal.
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  4. Move to the Left Pedal: There’s no need to switch sides. Simply rotate the left crank arm to the 5 o’clock position.
  5. Loosen the Left Pedal: Insert the short end of the Allen wrench into the socket. Push the wrench upward until the pedal loosens. Finally, use the long end of the wrench to rotate it clockwise and fully remove the left pedal.
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How to Remove Bike Pedals with an Allen Wrench

Here’s a quick video tutorial on how to remove bike pedals using an Allen wrench. We hope you find it helpful!

Beat the Stuck Bike Pedal Blues

Moisture and dirt can cause rust on pedal threads, while grime buildup around the threads or crank arm can make pedal removal difficult. Over-tightening and pedals that haven’t been removed in a long time can also contribute to this issue. To tackle this, try applying a high-quality penetrating oil, such as WD-40, to the gaps and let it sit for 10–15 minutes to loosen rust or dirt. For severe cases, leave it longer or reapply. After that, use a pedal wrench or Allen wrench to assist in removing the pedal.

If this doesn’t work, make sure you’re turning the pedal in the correct direction: for the right (drive-side) pedal, turn clockwise to tighten and counterclockwise to loosen; for the left (non-drive-side) pedal, turn counterclockwise to tighten and clockwise to loosen. Position the crank arm so you can apply downward pressure on the wrench to maximize leverage.

Smart Bike Pedals Maintenance for the Future

To keep your bike pedals in top shape, it’s important to clean them regularly, especially after riding in muddy or wet conditions. A quick wipe with a cloth or brush can prevent dirt buildup that can damage the threads or bearings. Applying a small amount of grease to the threads before installing the pedals helps prevent rust and makes removal easier.

Always check that your pedals are securely tightened after each ride. Loose pedals can cause wobbling or damage to the crankset. It’s also a good idea to inspect your pedals for cracks or signs of wear, and replace them if necessary. Store your bike in a dry place to protect the pedals from extreme conditions, and use covers or caps if storing outside. Lastly, if your pedals have loose bearings, clean and lubricate them regularly to ensure smooth movement. By staying on top of these simple tasks, you’ll keep your pedals running smoothly for longer.

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Conclusion

Now that you know how to take off bike pedals like a pro, you’re all set to handle pedal maintenance with ease. If you want to learn more about bike repairs, check out our other articles:

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