How to Take Off Bike Pedals: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

Removing your bike pedals is a useful skill. Whether you need new pedals, want to transport your bike, or just clean it, you should know how to take off bike pedals safely and easily.

In this guide, I will show you how to take off bike pedals using basic tools, without the need for a mechanic. You’ll learn to identify right and left pedals, use the right wrench or Allen key, and loosen even stuck pedals. Plus, you’ll get tips on pedal maintenance and preventing damage to your crank arm.

By the end of this article, you’ll have the confidence to remove bicycle pedals like a pro and know how to install them again.

Tools You’ll Need

Before you start, gather the tools needed for pedal removal. Using the right tools makes it easier.

1. Pedal wrench or spanner (15 mm)
A pedal wrench fits the flat surfaces on pedal spindles. It gives a better grip and leverage. Some pedals have narrow flat sides specifically for this wrench.

2. Allen key (6 mm or 8 mm)
Some pedals have an Allen-key bolt at the back of the crank arm. Use the right size and make sure it fits snugly.

3. Optional leverage tools
If your pedals are tight or stuck, you can use a breaker bar or a pipe slide over the wrench handle. A rubber mallet can help too, gently tapping the wrench can break the pedal free.

4. Penetrating oil
A spray like WD-40 helps loosen stuck pedals. Spray where the pedal meets the crank arm and let it soak in.

5. Grease or anti-seize compound
This helps when you reinstall the pedals. It prevents them from getting stuck later and makes future pedal removal easier.

Identify Left vs. Right Pedals

To remove pedals correctly, you must know which side is which.

• Right pedal (drive side): This is on the side with the chain and gears. It usually has an “R” stamped on it or painted. It uses a standard thread, so it loosens by turning counterclockwise (lefty‑loosey).
• Left pedal (non-drive side): This is on the side without the chain. It is often marked “L.” It has a reverse thread, so it loosens by turning clockwise (righty‑loosey).

Always double-check the stamp (R or L) and the pedal’s position before trying to undo it. Getting it wrong can damage the crank arm threads or strip the pedal.

Position Your Bike Safely

Your bike should be steady so you can use enough force without wobbling.

1. Use a bike stand if you have one. It holds the bike steady at a good height.
2. If you don’t have a stand, lean the bike against a wall or flip it upside down (handlebars and seat on the ground). Put a mat or towel down first to protect it.
3. Rotate the crank arm so it sits horizontally or slightly lower (around 3 or 9 o’clock). This gives the best angle for leverage.

Make sure the bike won’t slip. If you use a stand, tighten it properly. If leaning, make sure it stays upright while you apply force.

Loosen the Drive‑Side Pedal

Let’s start with the right (drive-side) pedal, the one on the chain side.

Step 1: Place the tool

Slide the pedal wrench onto the flat part of the spindle (nut part). Or, if your bike has an Allen-key bolt, insert the correct size Allen key into the back of the crank arm.

Step 2: Position the crank

Rotate the crank so the pedal is at around the 3 o’clock position (parallel with the ground). This gives you the most leverage.

Step 3: Choose direction

Since the drive-side pedal uses a standard thread, you loosen it by turning it anticlockwise (push the wrench toward the back of the bike).

Step 4: Apply steady pressure

Push firmly and steadily. If it’s tight, don’t jerk the wrench. Use a foot or knee to push down for extra force if needed.

Step 5: Use leverage if needed

If it won’t budge, use a pipe over the wrench handle for more leverage. You can also tap the wrench gently with a rubber mallet. This can help break it free if it’s tight.

Step 6: Try penetrating oil

If the pedal still won’t loosen, spray penetrating oil where the pedal meets the crank. Wait 5–10 minutes, then try again.

Step 7: Remove the pedal

Once it starts to move, keep turning until the pedal threads clear the crank. Be careful not to drop the pedal or let it hit the bike.

Loosen the Non‑Drive‑Side Pedal

Now move to the left (non-drive side) pedal. Its threads are reversed.

Step 1: Position the crank

Rotate the crank so the pedal spindle is at about 9 o’clock (parallel with the ground).

Step 2: Place the tool

Fit the wrench or Allen key as before.

Step 3: Turn the wrench

For the left pedal, you still pull toward the back of the bike. But because it has a reverse (left-hand) thread, that means turning clockwise loosens it.

Step 4: Apply steady force

Push the wrench back firmly and slowly, just like with the right pedal. Steady force works best.

Step 5: Use extra leverage if needed

If it’s really stuck, use the same tricks: penetrating oil, a pipe on the wrench, tapping with a mallet. Just be patient and careful.

Step 6: Finish the job

Once it starts turning, keep going until it comes out. Watch it clear the crank and remove it fully.

Clean and Inspect Threads

After you’ve removed both pedals, clean and check the threads.

Step 1: Wipe everything

Use a rag to clean the pedal spindle threads and the crank arm threads. Remove grease, dirt, and debris.

Step 2: Inspect closely

Look for any damaged or bent threads. If you see damage, you may need to re-tap the threads or get a bike shop to help.

Step 3: Apply fresh grease

Before you reinstall pedals, add a thin layer of grease or anti-seize to the threads. This protects from rust and makes future pedal removal easier.

This simple step saves time and avoids problems later.

How to Install New Pedals (Optional but Handy)

If you’re replacing old pedals or putting your bike back together, this part shows you how to install new ones properly.

Step 1: Identify the left and right pedals

Your new pedals should have a small “L” or “R” stamped near the threads.

• R = Right side (drive side): Standard thread, tighten clockwise.
• L = Left side (non-drive side): Reverse thread, tighten counterclockwise.

Always double-check this before installing.

Step 2: Add grease

Apply a small amount of grease or anti-seize to the pedal threads. This keeps the pedal from sticking or seizing over time and makes future pedal removal easier.

Step 3: Start threading by hand

Line up the pedal spindle with the crank arm hole and slowly turn it by hand in the correct direction (clockwise for right, counterclockwise for left). If it resists, stop, don’t force it. You might be cross-threading it.

Step 4: Tighten with the wrench

Once it’s hand-threaded most of the way, use your pedal wrench or Allen key to tighten. Most pedals should be snug, but not overtight. Over-tightening can damage the crank arm threads.

Tip: Use torque specs if available

Some manufacturers recommend torque values (usually around 35–40 Nm). If you have a torque wrench, use it for best results.

Troubleshooting: Stuck or Stripped Pedals

Sometimes, pedals just don’t want to budge. Here’s what to do.

Pedals won’t come off

• Spray penetrating oil like WD-40 where the pedal meets the crank. Let it sit for 10 minutes.
• Use a longer tool like a breaker bar or slide a pipe over the wrench handle.
• Try tapping the wrench gently with a rubber mallet while turning.
• Double-check the thread direction. Remember: the left pedal loosens clockwise!

Pedal threads are stripped

• If the pedal spins but doesn’t come out, the threads may be stripped.
• Stop turning and inspect closely.
• Don’t force it, or it could ruin the crank arm.
• You might need a thread repair kit or to take it to a bike shop for help.

Prevention tips

• Always grease threads when installing pedals.
• Don’t over-tighten.
• Remove and re-grease pedals at least once a year.

Beginner Tips to Make It Easier Next Time

Learning how to take off bike pedals is a good skill, and it gets easier with practice. Here are a few tips to save time and effort next time:

• Grease is your friend: A little anti-seize or grease on the threads makes a big difference.
• Use the right tools: A good pedal wrench or Allen key is worth it.
• Crank arm position matters: Set the pedal at 3 o’clock or 9 o’clock for max leverage.
• Remember thread direction: Right = regular, Left = reverse.
• Practice on both sides: It’s easy to forget which side is which. Practicing helps build muscle memory.

FAQs About Removing Bike Pedals

Can I remove bike pedals without special tools?

Yes, in some cases. You can use an adjustable wrench or a standard wrench that fits snugly. Just be careful not to strip the pedal or crank.

Why is the left pedal reverse-threaded?

It prevents the pedal from loosening while you ride. As you pedal forward, the reverse thread keeps the left pedal tight.

Should I grease my pedals?

Absolutely. Grease helps prevent rust and makes future pedal changes easy. It also protects the crank threads.

Can I reuse old pedals?

Yes, as long as they’re not damaged. Inspect the threads and spindles. If they spin smoothly and the threads are clean, you’re good to go.

What if my pedals squeak?

Squeaking can come from dry threads. Remove the pedals, grease them, and re-tighten. This often solves the problem.

Conclusion: You’ve Got This!

Now you know exactly how to take off bike pedals and install them again. Whether you’re doing maintenance, upgrading parts, or packing your bike for a trip, this skill is a must for any rider.

Remember:

• Use the right tools.
• Check the thread direction.
• Work slowly and steadily.
• Don’t skip the grease!

With a little practice, taking pedals off a bike becomes second nature. If your pedals are stuck or stripped, don’t force it, use oil, leverage, or get help from a local bike shop.

You’ve got the knowledge. Now go get those pedals off like a pro.