How to Remove Mountain Bike Pedal Arms: A Step-by-Step Guide

Last Updated on October 24, 2026 by Jaxon Mike

To remove a mountain bike pedal arm, you’ll need a pedal wrench or an Allen key. The key is remembering that the drive-side pedal (the one on the same side as the chainrings) loosens counter-clockwise. The non-drive side loosens clockwise. Getting this right saves a lot of frustration!

Swapping out your pedals can make a big difference in your ride feel. Maybe you’ve got a new set you’re excited to install, or perhaps one of your old ones is giving you trouble. Whatever your reason, knowing how to properly remove and install pedals is a fundamental bike maintenance skill. It’s easier than you might think!

• Identify the correct tool: pedal wrench or Allen key.
• Know which way to turn for each pedal (drive vs. non-drive side).
• Apply steady pressure.
• Listen for the click of the crank arm.
• Have your new pedals ready!

Ready to get those old pedals off? Let’s walk through exactly how to remove your mountain bike pedal arms step by step.

Taking Off Your Mountain Bike Pedal Arms

Ready to swap out those pedals? Removing your mountain bike pedal arms is a surprisingly straightforward task. You just need to know the right tools and a couple of simple tricks. We’ll guide you through the process so you can get those new pedals on in no time.

Gathering Your Essential Tools

Before you start, let’s make sure you have everything you need. Having the right tools makes the job much easier and prevents frustration.

The Pedal Wrench: Your Best Friend

A pedal wrench is specifically designed for this job. It’s longer than a regular wrench, giving you more leverage. This extra length is key for breaking free stubborn pedals. You can find them at your local bike shop or online. They usually come in common sizes that fit most bike pedals.

The Allen Key Alternative

Many modern pedals attach from the inside of the crank arm. For these, you’ll likely need an Allen key, also known as a hex wrench. Most commonly, you’ll need a 6mm or 8mm Allen key. Check your pedal manufacturer’s instructions if you’re unsure. Make sure the Allen key fits snugly into the pedal’s bolt head. A loose fit can strip the bolt, causing a headache.

Other Helpful Items

While not strictly necessary, a few other items can make the job smoother. A rag or shop towel is good for wiping away grease and dirt. A small brush can help clean out the crank arm threads. Some chain lube or grease can be handy for the reinstallation process later.

Understanding Pedal Threading: The Golden Rule

This is the most important part. Mountain bike pedals have different threading on each side. Getting this wrong means you’ll be turning the wrench the wrong way. Many people struggle with this at first. It’s like trying to unscrew a jar lid the wrong way – it just won’t budge!

The Drive-Side Pedal (Right Side)

The drive-side pedal is on the side of your bike with the chainrings. This pedal loosens in the counter-clockwise direction. Think of it this way: you’re turning it away from the front of the bike. When you’re sitting on the bike, you’ll be reaching down with your wrench. You’ll turn the wrench towards the back of the bike to loosen it.

The Non-Drive-Side Pedal (Left Side)

The non-drive-side pedal is on the opposite side, where there are no chainrings. This pedal loosens in the clockwise direction. So, for the left pedal, you’ll turn it the “normal” way you’d expect to loosen something. Again, when sitting on the bike, you’ll reach down and turn the wrench towards the back of the bike.

Research indicates that this opposing thread direction is a standard across most bicycle components to prevent self-loosening during riding (Park Tool). It’s a smart design, but it can be tricky to remember initially.

Step-by-Step Pedal Arm Removal

Now that you know the directions, let’s get those pedals off. Safety first – make sure your bike is stable.

Positioning Your Bike for Easy Access

It’s easiest to work on your pedals when the crank arm is in a stable position. Some people prefer to have the crank arm pointing forward. Others like it pointing straight down.

• If the crank arm is pointing forward, the pedal wrench will likely be pointing backward as you turn.
• If the crank arm is pointing down, the wrench will be pointing forward as you turn.

Choose whichever position gives you the best leverage and access. Avoid working when the crank is in a position where it could easily spin. You don’t want the wrench slipping and damaging anything.

Applying Steady Pressure

Place your pedal wrench or Allen key onto the pedal’s flats or into the bolt head. Make sure it’s fully seated. Now, apply smooth, steady pressure in the correct loosening direction. Don’t use jerky movements.

Sometimes, a pedal can be really stuck. If you’re having trouble, try a firm, controlled push. You might need to brace yourself against the bike. If using an Allen key, ensure you’re pushing straight in.

Using Your Body Weight

You’ll often find that using your body weight is more effective than just arm strength. For a pedal wrench, step onto the wrench handle to increase your force. For an Allen key, push down firmly on the handle. Research suggests that applying force evenly and with a consistent motion is key to loosening stubborn bolts (ASME).

Breaking the Seal

You might feel a slight “pop” or “click” when the pedal finally breaks free from the crank arm threads. This is normal. It means the Loctite or grime holding it in place has given way. Once it’s loose, you should be able to unscrew it by hand.

Dealing with Stubborn Pedals

If a pedal is really refusing to budge, don’t force it too hard. You risk damaging the crank arm threads. Sometimes, a little bit of penetrating oil can help. Let it soak for a few minutes. Then, try again with steady pressure. Many experts recommend this method for seized components (Motul).

Removing the Second Pedal

Once the first pedal is off, repeat the process for the other side. Remember to use the correct loosening direction for that side!

Checking Your Crank Arm Threads

After removing both pedals, take a moment to inspect the threads inside your crank arms. They should look clean and undamaged.

• Wipe them clean with a rag.
• Look for any signs of damage, such as cross-threading or stripped threads.
• If you see any issues, you might need professional help to repair or replace the crank arm.

Clean threads are essential for easy installation of your new pedals.

Quick Checklist for Pedal Removal

Here’s a quick recap to ensure you’ve got it right:

• Tool Check: Do you have the right pedal wrench or Allen key?
• Thread Direction: Drive side = counter-clockwise, Non-drive side = clockwise.
• Bike Position: Is your bike stable and crank arm in a good working position?
• Pressure: Are you applying steady, firm pressure?
• Thread Inspection: Did you check the crank arm threads after removal?

You’ve successfully removed your mountain bike pedal arms! This is a great step towards customizing your ride.

Conclusion

You’ve successfully tackled removing your mountain bike pedal arms! Remember the key is the opposite threading: drive-side loosens counter-clockwise, and the non-drive side loosens clockwise. Using the right tool and a bit of steady body weight often does the trick. Taking this maintenance step yourself can save time and money. Now that your old pedals are off, you’re ready to install your new ones and get back on the trail. Go ahead and get those new pedals mounted up!

Frequently Asked Questions

What if my pedals are really stuck and won’t budge?

If a pedal is extremely stubborn, avoid excessive force that could damage your crank arm. Try applying a penetrating oil to the threads and let it soak for a few minutes. Then, reapply steady pressure, perhaps using your body weight by carefully stepping on the wrench.

Can I use a regular wrench instead of a pedal wrench?

While a regular wrench might seem like an option, a dedicated pedal wrench is highly recommended. Its longer handle provides significantly more leverage, which is crucial for breaking free tight pedals without slipping and potentially injuring yourself or damaging the bike.

How do I know if I have the right size Allen key?

For pedals that use an Allen key, ensure it fits snugly into the bolt head on the inside of the crank arm. A loose fit can easily strip the bolt head, making removal much harder. Most mountain bike pedals use a 6mm or 8mm Allen key; check your pedal’s specifications if unsure.

Is it normal for the crank arm to move while I’m trying to remove the pedal?

Yes, it’s common for the crank arm to move. Positioning your bike so the crank arm is stable, perhaps pointing forward or straight down, helps. You can also use the brake rotor or your foot to keep the crank from spinning while you apply pressure to the pedal wrench or Allen key.

Do I need to grease the crank arm threads before installing new pedals?

Absolutely! Before installing your new pedals, clean the crank arm threads thoroughly. Then, apply a thin layer of grease or anti-seize compound to the threads. This prevents future seizing and makes removal much easier the next time you need to swap pedals.