How to remove and replace your mountain bike pedals like a pro

Ever gone to swap out your pedals and they just… won’t… budge? We’ve all been there. Whether you’re upgrading your setup, moving pedals to another bike, or just doing some maintenance, removing and replacing pedals can be trickier than it looks—especially if you don’t have the right tools, technique or awareness of reverse threads.

Here’s how to do it

Step 1: get the right tools

First thing first: don’t use an adjustable wrench, a pair of vice grips or a set of channel locks. A loose fit can round out your pedal axle, leaving you with a real headache. Instead, use either a 15 mm pedal wrench or a 8 mm (sometimes 6 mm) Allen key. Most modern, high-end pedals use an 8 mm Allen key. But some still need a pedal wrench. A quick inspection of your pedals will reveal which tool you’ll need for the job.

Step 2: remember which way to turn

Pedals are not like normal bolts—one side tightens in reverse! Here’s how to remember:

The right (drive side) pedal has the “right” thread. As in, it’s clockwise to tigthen, counterclockwise to loosen. Just like 95 per cent of the world’s bolts. And again in bold: The right (drive side) pedal has the “right” thread. As in, it’s clockwise to tigthen, counterclockwise to loosen. The right side is righty-tighty, the left side is not. 

The left (non-drive side) pedal has a reverse thread. Which means counterclockwise tightens it, and clockwise loosens it.

This reverse thread on the left side keeps the pedal from unscrewing while you ride.  If you’re cranking on it and it won’t loosen, double-check you’re turning the right way.

Step 3: secure your bike

If you have a bike stand, great. If not, lean the bike against a wall or flip it upside down, resting it on the handlebars and saddle. Having a buddy hold the bike steady can also help.

Pro tip: If you have multiple chainrings up front, move the chain to the largest chainring. This will help you avoid you smashing your hand on the sharp teeth while you work.

Step 4: loosen the pedals

Insert your tool into the pedal axle and use your body weight to push down. Again, make sure you are going in the right direction.

If the pedal is stuck

If the pedal is stuck, try using a longer tool for more leverage. Gently tapping the wrench or Allen key with a rubber mallet sometimes helps. Spraying penetrating oil (like WD-40) around the axle and waiting ten minutes can also assist.

Once the pedal is loose, spin it out by hand. Watch for small…