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Installing bicycle pedals is generally straightforward, but there's a crucial detail to remember: the left pedal has reverse threading, requiring a counter-clockwise turn to tighten.
Last Updated: March 29, 2024
As mentioned above, bicycle pedals, in theory, are a relatively easy thing to install. However, a couple of details can prove problematic if not handled correctly. One common misunderstanding is that the left pedal is left-hand threaded, requiring a counter-clockwise turn to tighten it, which is contrary to the usual tightening direction.
Most pedals are indeed marked with an "L" and an "R" to indicate which is which. However, if this detail goes unnoticed, along with the difference in threading, there's a risk of attempting to install the wrong pedal on the wrong side. This mistake can lead to damage to the cranks, necessitating their replacement, particularly if force is applied in an attempt to install the pedal incorrectly.
On the left side, there's a left-handed threaded pedal, while on the right side, there's a "normal" right-handed threaded pedal, as depicted in the image above.
To install pedals, a few things are needed.
- Grease for the threads
- The correct tool to tighten your particular pedals
For grease, there are plenty of bike-specific options available, but Park Tool PolyLube is a good standby. Do you happen to have something like an automotive wheel bearing grease in your garage? That'll also work in a pinch. When greasing the threads, apply a small amount evenly. It's also recommended to apply a small amount on the flat part of the axle that contacts the crank as it's tightened.
To tighten the pedals, you'll need one of three potential tools, depending on your pedals. You'll either require a 6mm or 8mm allen wrench inserted through the back of the crank arm into the hole in the pedal spindle, or if your pedals have only 15mm wrench flats, you'll need to buy a bicycle-specific pedal wrench. We try to keep all these in stock and they can be found in our tool section HERE.
Example of pedals that are installed via an allen wrench
When pedals are being installed properly and on the correct side, they should start threading into the crank arm fairly smoothly and easily. If it feels difficult to thread in, you want to stop, check that you've got the pedal going in straight, and that you're trying to install it on the correct crank arm. If you're still having issues getting it to thread in, this is the time where seeking assistance from your local bike shop is a good idea. They can make sure no threads have been damaged and are causing issues, or some other potential problem. Bicycle pedals, in theory, should be torqued to about 30ft/lbs. However, pedal installation tools are intentionally not very long, so that with a good solid pull of the tool, you'll not over-tighten the pedal.
Still Need Help?
If you have further questions or prefer assistance with pedal installation, don't hesitate to visit your local Mike's Bikes or feel free to email us at info@mikesbikes.com or call us at 866-600-2453. We’re always here to help!