Pedals are an essential component of your BMX bike; without them, you wouldn’t be able to operate it, elevate its performance, or ensure your safety as a rider. But even knowing that, understanding what pedal is best for you and your bike may still be challenging.
First of all, you have to know that there are two types of pedals available on BMX bikes – clipless and platform. On top of that, there are different sizes utilized in these bike designs. The size is correlated with the crank design.
Most adult bikes use a three-piece crank, whereas the kid’s bikes are outfitted with a 1-piece crank. However, that would make it look like there is only one pedal for each category that is not the case.
No matter if you are looking to improve the performance of your bike or just need new pedals after years of wear and tear, understanding the sizing of pedals is important. So we pulled together this quick guide to help you with that.
How Many BMX Pedals Are There?
BMX riders have a lot of options, but the different models can all be classified into two types. The type you chose is all about your riding style. The two types you have to choose from are clipless and platform.
- Clipless: These pedals tend to be smaller and lighter. When looking at these pedals, it is important to know they require cleats.
This means that your foot and the shoe are the pedals. These pedals are good for racers that need a lot of speed and power with good grip.
- Platform: This pedal is heavier and much wider than the clipless variety. The design of this pedal gives the rider better grip and control.
This is why it is the best option for riders that are looking to do tricks because it allows a lot of room for the rider to adjust their feet’ position even during the ride.
What Size Pedals Do You Need For a BMX?
So when it comes to size, there are only three options, and they have to do with the crank design. If you have a 1-piece crank design, you will need to look at a 1/2″ pedal. If, on the other hand, you have a two-piece or a three-piece crank, you want a 9/16″.
The 1-piece option, though, tends to be only for kids’ BMX bikes, so unless you are looking at that type of bike, you will be working with one of the two other options.
Once you know what crank design your bike has, the type and model of the pedal are really up to you and your riding style.
How Can You Know For Sure?
To ensure you have the right size pedal, you need, as we said above, to know what design of crank your bike has. So the easiest way to know that you have the right size is to closely examine your crank.
You will need to know your bike’s spindle and thread size. Once you have all this information, you will be able to identify the right pedal for your BMX bike. Of course, you can always try the wrench test if you still don’t know.
Grab two wrenches – a 12mm and a 15mm. If the 12mm fits comfortably and can be used with ease, you are looking at a ½” pedal. If the 15mm wrench works better, then it is the 9/16″ pedal for you.
How to Tell if You Have the Wrong Size?
The wrong size pedal can be dangerous. So understanding the above techniques to ensure you have the right size pedal is crucial. Here are some reasons why having the wrong-sized pedal is so dangerous:
- The wrong pedal can reduce speed and power
- Too small of a pedal could lead to less control and maneuverability
- Reduces versatility of use
Things You Need to Know Before Buying
The size is just one component of ensuring that you have the right pedal for your bike and your style. So to help you out a little more, we thought we would give you a few other things you should look at when deciding what pedal to go with.
Here are a few of the features of the pedal to consider:
- Weight – Lighter pedal reduces the weight of the bike. So lighter might be a better choice for those looking to do moguls or even freestyle tricks.
- Grip – Grip is important, especially when it comes to racing, especially if that racing is done in more extreme settings like mountain trails.
- Durability – Durability is important no matter what type of rider you are. After all, your pedals are going to see a lot of wear and tear. If you don’t want to have to continually replace them, then finding one that is made to last is a good idea.
Final Thoughts on Are all BMX pedals the Same Size
There are many different models and types of BMX bike pedals. But when it comes to size, you have a limited selection. This is good as it allows you to focus on more of the other features of the pedals to ensure you get the one that is the best for you and your riding style.