How to Change Bike Pedals on a Mountain Bike [Safely]

Last Updated on August 26, 2025 by Jaxon Mike

As an avid mountain biker, I’ve had my fair share of dealing with worn-out or damaged pedals. Changing out bike pedals may seem like a simple task, but if you don’t do it properly, you could end up with some serious issues – like a pedal suddenly coming loose while you’re ripping down a gnarly descent. Yikes!

That’s why I always recommend taking the time to change your mountain bike pedals the right way. It’s a task that requires a bit of know-how, but once you get the hang of it, you’ll be swapping out pedals like a pro. In this detailed guide, I’m going to walk you through everything you need to know to change your mountain bike pedals safely and effectively.

Why Change Mountain Bike Pedals?

There are a few key reasons why you might need to change the pedals on your mountain bike:

• Worn-out pedals – Over time, the bearings, spindles, and other components of your pedals can wear down, making them feel loose, wobbly, or difficult to spin freely. Worn-out pedals need to be replaced for both safety and performance reasons.
• Damaged pedals – If you’ve had a nasty crash or your pedals have taken a serious beating on the trails, they may become cracked, dented, or otherwise damaged. Damaged pedals should always be swapped out right away.
• Upgrade to better pedals – Maybe you’ve had the same cheap stock pedals on your bike since day one, and you’re ready to upgrade to a higher-quality, more capable set. Changing pedals is a great way to enhance your mountain bike’s performance and comfort.

No matter which camp you fall into, it’s crucial to take the time to change your mountain bike pedals properly. Rushing through the process or skipping important steps can lead to all sorts of issues down the road – from annoying creaks and squeaks to potentially dangerous pedal failures. But don’t worry, I’ve got your back!

Tools Needed to Change Mountain Bike Pedals

Before we dive into the step-by-step process, let’s make sure you have all the necessary tools on hand. Changing mountain bike pedals requires just a few basic items, but having the right gear will make the job a whole lot easier. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Pedal wrench – This is a specialized wrench designed specifically for removing and installing bike pedals. Pedal wrenches typically have long handles to provide the extra leverage you’ll need.
• Hex wrenches – You’ll want a set of hex wrenches (also called Allen wrenches) in various sizes, as you may need to loosen or tighten other components during the pedal-changing process.
• Bike grease – Applying a light coating of bike-specific grease to the pedal threads helps them thread in smoothly and prevents corrosion over time.
• Clean rags – You’ll want some clean, lint-free rags on hand to wipe down the pedals and crank arms before installation.

That’s really all you need! With these basic tools, you’ll be able to remove your old pedals and install new ones with ease. Just be sure to take your time and follow the proper steps – rushing through the process can lead to all sorts of problems.

How to Change Mountain Bike Pedals Step-by-Step

Alright, now that you’ve got your tools ready, let’s walk through the process of changing mountain bike pedals one step at a time:

Step 1: Identify the Pedal Thread Direction

The first thing you’ll want to do is determine the thread direction of your current pedals. Mountain bike pedals can have either a right-hand (clockwise) or left-hand (counterclockwise) thread. Knowing which way the threads are oriented is crucial for being able to properly remove and install the new pedals.

You can usually tell which way the threads are facing just by looking closely at the pedal spindle. Righty-tighty, lefty-loosey – that’s the rule to remember. The right pedal will have a right-hand (clockwise) thread, while the left pedal will have a left-hand (counterclockwise) thread.

Step 2: Loosen and Remove the Old Pedals

Now it’s time to get those old pedals off. Start by using your pedal wrench to loosen the locknut that secures the pedal to the crank arm. Turn the locknut in the appropriate direction based on the thread orientation you identified in the previous step.

Once the locknut is loose, continue turning the pedal spindle in the same direction to fully remove it from the crank arm. You may need to apply some elbow grease, especially if the pedals have been on there a while. Don’t be afraid to give it a good amount of force, but be careful not to strip the threads.

Step 3: Clean the Crank Arm Threads

With the old pedals removed, use a clean rag to thoroughly wipe down the crank arm threads. Remove any dirt, grime, or corrosion that has built up over time. This will help ensure a smooth, secure installation of the new pedals.

If the crank arm threads look particularly grungy, you can also use a stiff-bristle brush or a small amount of bike-specific degreaser to give them a more thorough cleaning. Just make sure to wipe everything down with a clean rag when you’re done.

Step 4: Apply Grease to the Pedal Threads

Before installing the new pedals, it’s a good idea to apply a light coating of bike grease to the pedal threads. This helps the pedals thread in smoothly and prevents them from seizing up or corroding over time.

Simply use your finger or a small rag to spread a thin, even layer of grease onto the threads of the new pedal spindles. Be careful not to get any grease on the pedal body or the crank arm itself, as that could affect traction and cause slippage.

Step 5: Install the New Pedals

Now for the final step – putting on those shiny new pedals! Start by threading the right pedal into the right crank arm, turning it in a clockwise direction. Be sure to thread it in straight and avoid cross-threading.

Once the pedal is hand-tight, use your pedal wrench to fully tighten it down. Apply enough force to ensure a secure connection, but don’t over-tighten. Repeat the same process for the left pedal, turning it in a counterclockwise direction.

After both pedals are installed, give them a few spins to make sure they’re spinning freely and without any binding or creaking. If everything looks and feels good, you’re all set!

Conclusion

Changing mountain bike pedals may seem like a simple task, but it’s one that requires careful attention to detail. By following the proper steps and using the right tools, you can ensure a safe, secure, and long-lasting installation of your new pedals.

Remember, taking shortcuts or skipping crucial steps can lead to all sorts of issues down the road – from irritating creaks and squeaks to potentially dangerous pedal failures. So slow down, stay focused, and don’t be afraid to ask for help if you’re ever unsure about anything.

With a little practice, you’ll be swapping out those old, worn-out pedals like a total pro. Happy trails!

FAQs

How often should I change my mountain bike pedals?

There’s no set rule, but most mountain bikers recommend changing pedals every 1-2 years, or whenever you notice significant wear and tear. If your pedals feel loose, wobbly, or difficult to spin, it’s probably time for a replacement.

Can I use regular wrenches to change my pedals?

While it is possible to remove and install pedals using regular wrenches, I highly recommend investing in a dedicated pedal wrench. Pedal wrenches are specifically designed with the long handle and right size jaws to provide the leverage and torque needed for this job. Using regular wrenches increases the risk of rounding out the pedal nut.

What’s the difference between left-hand and right-hand threaded pedals?

The main difference is the direction you need to turn them to remove and install. Right-hand threaded pedals (on the right side of the bike) need to be turned clockwise to tighten and counterclockwise to loosen. Left-hand threaded pedals (on the left side) work in the opposite direction – counterclockwise to tighten, clockwise to loosen.

Can I use any pedals on my mountain bike?

Not necessarily. Mountain bike pedals come in a variety of sizes, spindle lengths, and thread types. It’s important to match the new pedals to your specific bike and crank arm setup. Refer to your bike’s specifications or consult with a local bike shop to ensure you get the right replacement pedals.

How do I dispose of old bike pedals?

If the pedals are in decent shape but you just don’t want them anymore, consider donating them to a local bike co-op or community program. Otherwise, pedals can typically be recycled along with other metal bike parts. Check with your local recycling center to see if they accept bicycle components.