How to install new bike pedals


Identify left and right, install and tighten. Read on for 3 easy steps to install pedals on your new bike on subscription along with common issues and tips


Tools required: 15mm spanner



1. Identify the left and right pedal


The pedals are not identical! You'll find an L (left) and a right (R) engraved on each pedal. It is important you identify the correct pedal for each side. Not doing so, can cause damage to the pedal, and the crank (the arm that the pedal screws into).


Identifying the left and right pedal on a bike



2. Install the pedals


The right pedal is on the same side of the bike as the chain. This pedal tightens by screwing clockwise. ➡️


The left pedal is on the side of the bike without the chain. This pedal tightens anti-clockwise. ⬅️


IMPORTANT:


Putting the pedal on should be done by hand, and it will be very easy and smooth. If you feel any resistance at all, do not force the pedal. You will damage the pedal and the bike. Scroll down for common issues, and quick fixes.



3. Tighten the pedals


Once the pedals are hand-tight you can make them tighter by using the spanner.



Common issues


Pedals will screw in without a lot of resistance however it is easy to ‘skip a thread’ which will make it feel difficult, to avoid this follow the steps below.


Use your hands


Start screwing the pedal in with your hands, not the spanner. This allows for greater control and feel over whether the pedal is screwing in correctly or not.


A dirty thread


Ensure the pedal thread is clean. Visually inspect the thread to see if it may need a clean. If so, you can do this with a clean cloth and a light degreaser. For degreasing you can use a normal household product like WD-40


Align the thread


Once clean, begin by screwing the pedal - very lightly - in the opposite direction to tightening (see above for left and right tightening directions) until you hear a small ‘click’. Once you hear the ‘click’ start screwing the pedal in the direction of tightening, this process helps to correctly align the thread of the pedal with the thread in the crank.



More info


Why do the pedals screw in opposite directions?


They're designed to avoid overtightening themselves as you ride and so have unconventional tightening directions


IMPORTANT:


If there is a lot of resistance to screwing in the pedals, do not force them as it will damage the thread in the crank arm and the thread of the pedal.


If a pedal does not screw in smoothly, contact us and we will help out or read our guide on what to do if your pedal isn’t going on.