Pedal Power

5 things you should know about pedals.

NEW BEARINGS = MORE LIFE
On some of the nicer models, you can actually replace the bearings to give the pedals more life. Bearings control how well the pedal spins between the pedal and the axle. Some aren't worth doing, but check with your shop before you buy new pedals.
—K.C. Hazelwood of Mike's Bikes, Charleston, SC

THINNER WRENCH NEEDED
You need a special, thinner wrench to take them off or put them on. A regular wrench either won't fit or may round off the pedal arm. A pedal wrench is only about $10.
—Hazelwood

GREASE 'EM ONCE A SEASON
They need to be maintained. We tell our customers that Speedplay bearings will burn out if they're not greased once a season. You can usually run SPD and Look pedals several seasons without maintenance—but have a mechanic look at them once a year.
—John Wright of Pro Bikes, Oklahoma City, OK

LET MUD DRY
If your pedals get muddy on a ride, don't clean them by spraying water down into them. You want to keep water away from them. It's usually better to let the mud dry and gently knock it off. Afterward, lube the moving parts to help you click in and out a little better.
—Wright

REPLACE CLEATS FIRST
"Stiff" pedals usually mean you need to replace your cleats. Some riders think a cleat is okay as long as it still clicks in, but the resistance has increased—it doesn't engage or release as quickly. If you're having trouble getting in and out, replace your cleat before digging into your pedal.
—Reed Caster of Caster's Bicylce Center, Warwick, RI

Bicycling.com