The easiest ways to install cleats and remove pedals.

Attach New Cleats in Exactly the Right Position

Before removing your old cleats, trace the outline or the corners of each one with a silver Sharpie (on a dark-colored sole) or a black Sharpie (on a light-colored sole). Place your new cleat within the lines.

Foolproof Pedal Removal

The “righty tighty, lefty loosey” maxim doesn’t work for pedals—the left one is reverse threaded to prevent it from coming undone while you ride. Here’s a no-fail way to remove them without damaging your spindles—or taxing your brain.

1. Place your bike in a workstand or have a friend hold the rear wheel off the ground.

2. Attach a hex or pedal wrench to one pedal.

3. Hold the wrench tight with one hand; grip the same pedal firmly with the other hand.

4. Keep the angle of your wrench constant and spin your cranks forward. (To install pedals, do the same thing, but spin rearward).

READ MORE ON: bike advice cleats maintenance