Introduction
Whether you are upgrading your cockpit, replacing worn grips, or swapping pedals, knowing how to remove and install handlebars and pedals is an essential bike maintenance skill.
The good news? You can do both jobs in 20–30 minutes with basic tools. This guide shows you exactly how — even if you have never worked on a bike before.
Warning: Incorrect installation can cause handlebars or pedals to fail while riding. Follow torque specs and check everything twice.
Part 1: How to Remove and Install Handlebars
Tools You Will Need
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Hex keys (4mm, 5mm, 6mm) | Stem and shifter bolts |
| Screwdriver | Bar end plugs |
| Torque wrench | Precise tightening |
| Rag | Clean parts |
| Cable cutters | If replacing cables |
| Grease | For bolts |
Tip: A torque wrench prevents overtightening carbon bars.
Step-by-Step: How to Remove Handlebars
Step 1: Secure the Bike
- Put the bike in a stand or flip it upside down.
- Remove any accessories (lights, bells, computers).
Step 2: Remove Grips or Bar Tape
- Grips: Loosen with a hex key or twist off.
- Bar tape: Unwrap carefully. Replace if worn.
Step 3: Remove Shifters and Brake Levers
- Loosen the shifter/brake clamp bolts with a hex key.
- Slide them off the bar.
- Let them hang by the cables.
Tip: Do not disconnect cables unless replacing them.
Step 4: Remove the Faceplate or Stem Cap
- Faceplate stem: Remove the 4 faceplate bolts.
- Quill stem: Loosen the top bolt, then the wedge bolt.
Warning: Support the handlebar so it does not fall.
Step 5: Remove the Handlebar
- Slide the bar out of the stem.
- If it is tight, twist gently.
- Set it aside.
Step-by-Step: How to Install Handlebars
Step 1: Apply Grease
- Apply a thin layer of grease to the stem clamp area.
- For carbon bars, use carbon assembly paste.
Step 2: Insert the Handlebar
- Slide the bar into the stem.
- Center it using the alignment marks.
Step 3: Install the Faceplate
- Reinstall the faceplate and bolts.
- Tighten in a criss-cross pattern.
- Torque to 5–6 Nm (check stem).
Tip: Tighten gradually and evenly.
Step 4: Install Shifters and Brake Levers
- Slide them onto the bar.
- Set the angle (usually level or slightly down).
- Tighten to 5–6 Nm.
Step 5: Install Grips or Bar Tape
- Grips: Slide on with soapy water or air.
- Bar tape: Wrap from inside out.
Step 6: Check Alignment
- Sit on the bike.
- Check brake and shifter positions.
- Adjust as needed.
Step 7: Test Ride
- Ride slowly.
- Check for slipping or movement.
- Re-torque if needed.
Part 2: How to Remove and Install Pedals
Tools You Will Need
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Pedal wrench (15mm) | Remove pedals |
| Hex key (6mm or 8mm) | Some pedals |
| Grease | For threads |
| Rag | Clean threads |
Tip: A pedal wrench is thin and long for leverage.
Understanding Pedal Threads
| Pedal | Thread Direction |
|---|---|
| Right pedal | Right-hand thread (clockwise to tighten) |
| Left pedal | Left-hand thread (counterclockwise to tighten) |
Golden Rule: Right pedal = right thread. Left pedal = left thread.
Tip: Both pedals tighten toward the front of the bike.
Step-by-Step: How to Remove Pedals
Step 1: Secure the Bike
- Put the bike in a stand or against a wall.
Step 2: Position the Crank
- Rotate the crank so the pedal is at 3 o’clock.
- This gives you leverage.
Step 3: Loosen the Right Pedal
- Attach the pedal wrench to the right pedal.
- Turn counterclockwise to loosen.
- Hold the opposite crank to prevent rotation.
Step 4: Loosen the Left Pedal
- Attach the pedal wrench to the left pedal.
- Turn clockwise to loosen.
- Hold the opposite crank.
Warning: Do not force. Apply steady pressure.
Step 5: Remove the Pedals
- Once loose, unscrew by hand.
- Set them aside.
Step-by-Step: How to Install Pedals
Step 1: Clean the Threads
- Wipe the crank threads with a rag.
- Remove old grease or dirt.
Step 2: Apply Grease
- Apply a thin layer of grease to the pedal threads.
- This prevents seizing.
Step 3: Identify Right and Left Pedals
- Right pedal: Marked R or D.
- Left pedal: Marked L or G.
Tip: Never mix them up.
Step 4: Install the Right Pedal
- Thread by hand clockwise.
- Tighten with a pedal wrench.
- Torque to 30–35 Nm.
Step 5: Install the Left Pedal
- Thread by hand counterclockwise.
- Tighten with a pedal wrench.
- Torque to 30–35 Nm.
Warning: Cross-threading damages the crank.
Step 6: Test the Pedals
- Spin the cranks.
- Check for smooth rotation.
- Check for looseness.
How to Choose New Handlebars
| Type | Best For |
|---|---|
| Flat bar | MTB, hybrid |
| Drop bar | Road, gravel |
| Riser bar | MTB, comfort |
| Bullhorn | Fixed gear, commuter |
| Cruiser | Comfort |
Tip: Match bar diameter to stem (31.8mm most common).
How to Choose New Pedals
| Type | Best For |
|---|---|
| Platform | Casual, MTB |
| Clipless | Road, MTB |
| Hybrid | Commuter |
| BMX | Tricks |
Tip: Clipless pedals require compatible shoes.
Pro Tips for Handlebar and Pedal Installation
| Tip | Why |
|---|---|
| Use a torque wrench | Prevents damage |
| Apply grease | Prevents seizing |
| Criss-cross bolts | Even pressure |
| Check alignment | Comfort |
| Test ride | Safety |
| Re-torque after first ride | Settling |
| Use carbon paste on carbon | Grip without overtightening |
| Mark your position | Repeatable |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ❌ Overtightening carbon bars.
- ❌ Cross-threading pedals.
- ❌ Mixing left and right pedals.
- ❌ Not greasing pedal threads.
- ❌ Forgetting to tighten faceplate bolts.
- ❌ Not testing after installation.
- ❌ Using the wrong tools.
- ❌ Ignoring torque specs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do I remove bike pedals?
Use a pedal wrench. Right pedal: counterclockwise. Left pedal: clockwise.
How do I install bike pedals?
Right pedal: clockwise. Left pedal: counterclockwise. Grease threads first.
Why are bike pedals reverse-threaded?
The left pedal is left-hand threaded to prevent loosening while pedaling.
How do I remove handlebars?
Remove grips, shifters, brake levers, then the faceplate or stem cap.
How do I install handlebars?
Insert into stem, center, install faceplate, tighten in criss-cross pattern.
What torque for handlebar bolts?
5–6 Nm for most stems. Check the stem.
What torque for pedals?
30–35 Nm.
Can I use a regular wrench on pedals?
A pedal wrench is best. A regular wrench may be too thick.
How do I know if my handlebars are tight enough?
They should not slip when you push down. Use a torque wrench.
How often should I check pedals?
Before every ride. Re-torque monthly.
Quick Reference: Handlebar and Pedal Checklist
| Step | Handlebars | Pedals |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Remove accessories | Secure bike |
| 2 | Remove grips/tape | Position crank |
| 3 | Remove shifters/levers | Loosen pedal |
| 4 | Remove faceplate | Remove pedal |
| 5 | Remove bar | Clean threads |
| 6 | Grease stem | Grease threads |
| 7 | Install bar | Install right pedal |
| 8 | Install faceplate | Install left pedal |
| 9 | Install shifters | Torque to 30–35 Nm |
| 10 | Install grips/tape | Test ride |
| 11 | Check alignment | Re-torque |
| 12 | Test ride | — |
Conclusion
Removing and installing handlebars and pedals is a core bike maintenance skill. With the right tools and this step-by-step guide, you can upgrade your cockpit, swap pedals, and keep your bike running smoothly.
Remember:
- Right pedal = right thread.
- Left pedal = left thread.
- Grease all threads.
- Use a torque wrench.
- Criss-cross handlebar bolts.
- Test ride.
If you are unsure, consult a professional mechanic.
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