30
Pedals
Many pedals cannot be disassembled to allow access
to the internal bearings and axle. However, it is usually
possible to inject a little oil onto the inside bearings,
and this should be done every six months. If the ped-
al is the type that can be fully disassembled, then the
bearings should be removed, cleaned and greased ev-
ery six to twelve months. Because of the wide variety of
pedal types and their internal complexity, disassembly
procedures are beyond the scope of this manual. Fur-
ther assistance should be sought from a professional
bicycle mechanic.
Pedal inspection:
Check your bicycle pedals every month, taking note of
the following:
• Check and make sure that the pedals are tightened
securely against the crank arm. Loose pedals are
dangerous and can cause irreparable damage to the
cranks.
• Check and make sure that the pedal bearings are
properly adjusted. Move the pedals up and down,
right to left, and rotate them by hand. If you detect
WARNING: Never ride the bicycle if the
pedals are loose. Always wear shoes.
NOTE:
The right and left pedals of a bicycle each have
a different thread and are not interchangeable. Never
force a pedal into the incorrect crank arm. If removing
a pedal, remember that the right pedal axle must be
turned counter clockwise, i.e. the reverse of when in-
stalling. If replacing the original pedals with a new set,
make sure the size and the axle of the new pedal set
is compatible with the cranks on your bicycle. Bicycles
use one of two types of cranks and these use different
axle threads. Your bicycle may be equipped with cranks
that are a one piece design with no separate axle.
These operate with pedals that have a 12.7 mm thread.
Bicycles equipped with three piece crank sets with a
separate axle, left crank and right crank, use a slightly
larger 14mm thread.
NOTE:
Never try and force a pedal with the wrong
thread size into a bicycle crank.
Chain and chain wheel
The bicycle chain and the chain wheel should be lubri-
cated with light oil at least every month or after use in
Check that the brake cables are correctly routed and
not wrapped around the stem or frame in a manner
that prevents smooth operation or hampers control
of the bicycle. Also check that the housing is seated
properly into each cable stop of the bicycle. It is rec-
ommended that the cables and housing are replaced
at least every riding season to prolong the life of your
bicycle.
any looseness or roughness in the pedal bearings, ad-
justment, lubrication, or replacement is required.
• Ensure that the front and rear pedal reflectors are
clean and securely fitted.
