How to Disassemble BMX Pedals

Each BMX pedal features a foot platform surrounding an inner spindle. Sets of greased bearings inside the spindle allow the platform to turn smoothly while the spindle remains stationary. Dried grease, damaged bearings and an accumulation of grit, however, can increase friction between the platform and spindle, lessening the ease with which the platform spins. Disassembling the pedal allows for effective cleaning and repair of internal parts.

Things You'll Need

  • 15 mm wrench
  • Slotted screwdriver (as needed)
  • Pliers (as needed)
  • Locknut wrench
  • Tweezers
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Instructions

    • 1

      Locate the flat portion of the pedal spindle. The spindle threads into the side of the bicycle's crank. Fit your 15 mm wrench around this flat portion.

    • 2

      Turn the wrench in the correct direction. For drive side pedals, turn the wrench counterclockwise. For the non-drive side pedals, turn the wrench clockwise.

    • 3

      Remove the loosened pedal.

    • 4

      Inspect the cage surrounding the main body of the pedal. Look for any screws that attach the cage to the body.

    • 5

      Remove each of the the screws from the cage using a Phillips screwdriver. Place the screws in a cup for safekeeping.

    • 6

      Observe the dust cap at the tip of the pedal. For plastic dust caps, insert a slotted screwdriver into the side of the cap and pry free of the pedal. For metal dust caps, loosen and remove the cap using a pair of pliers. Removing the dust cap reveals a locknut.

    • 7

      Fit an appropriately sized wrench around the locknut. Meanwhile hold the spindle portion of the pedal steady with a 15 mm wrench.

    • 8

      Loosen and remove the locknut and its washer. Removing the locknut reveals a set of bearings.

    • 9

      Hold the pedal upright to prevent the bearings from spilling out. Remove each bearing using a pair of tweezers.

    • 10

      Turn the pedal upside down so that the spindle is pointing straight up. Pull the spindle away from the body of the pedal. Notice the second set of bearings on this side of the pedal.

    • 11

      Remove the second set of bearings using the tweezers.