Exercise Bike Pedal Crank Problems – Loosening, Wear and Stripping
Fix a loose crank arm or a stripped pedal on your exercise bike. Our guide helps you diagnose problems with the crank, threads, and bottom bracket interface.
The Anatomy of the Crankset
An explanation of the pedals, crank arms, and bottom bracket, and how they work together.
Symptom: A Clicking or Clunking Noise
A rhythmic click or clunk with each pedal stroke often points to a loose pedal or a loose crank arm bolt.
How to Tighten a Loose Crank Arm
A step-by-step guide to tightening the main bolt or nut that secures the crank arm to the bottom bracket axle. Remember: left pedals have a reverse thread!
Dealing with Stripped Pedal or Crank Threads
If a pedal was cross-threaded or came loose, it can strip the threads in the aluminum crank arm. This is a common issue that usually requires crank arm replacement.
When the Square Taper is Worn
If the square hole in the crank arm that fits onto the axle becomes rounded, the arm will never stay tight and must be replaced.