How to change the pedals on a road bike

When it comes to maintaining and upgrading your road bike, one task that you might encounter is replacing the pedals. While this may seem like a daunting task for beginners, it is actually straightforward and can be easily done at home with just a few tools. In this article, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of changing the pedals on your road bike.

Before we dive into the process, let’s go over why someone might want to change their bike pedals. There are a few common reasons, such as upgrading to a better quality pedal, replacing worn-out pedals, or simply switching to a different pedal system that better suits your needs.

Now, let’s get into the step-by-step process:

Step 1: Gather the necessary tools
To change the pedals on your road bike, you will need a few tools. These include a pedal wrench or an Allen key, depending on the type of pedal you have (some pedals require an Allen key while others have flats for a pedal wrench), and a small amount of grease to apply on the pedal threads to protect against corrosion.

Step 2: Prepare your bike
To ensure your safety and maintain stability during the process, park your road bike on a level surface, and make sure it is in gear. Additionally, if you have a bike stand, using it can make the task easier, but it is not necessary.

Step 3: Removing the old pedals
Start with the right pedal. Place the pedal wrench or Allen key on the pedal’s axle, positioning it towards the back of the bike. Using your body weight, press down on the wrench or key in a clockwise direction to loosen the pedal. Once loose, you can unscrew it by hand. Repeat the same process for the left pedal, but this time you will need to rotate the wrench or key counterclockwise to loosen it.

Step 4: Greasing the threads
Before installing the new pedals, it is recommended to apply a small amount of grease to the pedal threads. This will help prevent corrosion and make future removal easier. Simply dab your finger into the grease and apply it evenly on the threads of the new pedal.

Step 5: Installing the new pedals
Begin with the right pedal. Insert the pedal into the right crank arm, threading it in by hand until it is snug. Once snug, use the pedal wrench or Allen key to tighten it further. Remember, the right pedal has a normal thread, so you need to rotate it clockwise to tighten. Repeat the same process for the left pedal, but this time you will need to rotate it counterclockwise to tighten.

Step 6: Test and adjust
After successfully installing the new pedals, take a moment to test them. Make sure they are securely tightened, and there is no play or wobbling. Additionally, check that the pedals rotate smoothly and there are no strange noises. If you notice any issues, simply re-tighten the pedals until everything is in order.

And there you have it! By following these six simple steps, you can easily change the pedals on your road bike. Remember, taking good care of your bike and performing regular maintenance tasks like this will help ensure its optimal performance and longevity. So, don’t hesitate to give it a try and enjoy your smooth, efficient rides!