How to Replace or Service the Bearings in Your TIME ATAC XC 8 Pedals

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The TIME ATAC XC 8 [paid link] pedals are high-performance cross-country (XC) clipless pedals known for their lightweight carbon body, reliable engagement system, and long-lasting performance. However, even the best pedals require occasional servicing—especially the bearings, which are critical to maintaining smooth rotation and power transfer. In this guide, you’ll learn how to properly replace and service the bearings in your TIME ATAC XC 8 [paid link] pedals to restore their original smoothness and extend their lifespan.

Tools Required

  • 8mm hex wrench
  • 10mm socket or thin cone wrench [paid link]
  • Bearing puller or drift tool
  • Small flat-head screwdriver
  • High-quality waterproof grease (e.g., lithium or PTFE-based)
  • Replacement bearing kit (specific to TIME ATAC XC 8)
  • Torque wrench [paid link] (recommended)

Understanding the TIME ATAC XC 8 Bearing System

The TIME ATAC XC 8 pedal system uses a dual bearing configuration combined with a self-lubricating bushing. The outer end of the spindle houses a small sealed cartridge bearing, while the inner end typically contains a larger bearing or bushing assembly. This design provides a balance between weight, durability, and low friction under load.

Unlike some other clipless pedals that use loose ball bearings, the ATAC XC 8 relies on sealed cartridge units, which are less prone to contamination but still require servicing once wear or resistance develops. Regular inspection prevents pitting, grinding, or premature spindle damage.

When to Replace or Service the Bearings

Bearing replacement or servicing becomes necessary when you notice one or more of the following symptoms:

  • The pedal spins unevenly or with noticeable resistance.
  • You hear grinding, clicking, or creaking noises while pedaling.
  • There is lateral play (side-to-side movement) on the spindle.
  • The pedal does not rotate freely after cleaning or lubrication.

If these issues persist after cleaning and re-greasing, replacement of the cartridge bearings is the best option to ensure continued performance.

Removing the Pedal from the Crank Arm

To access the bearing assembly, first remove the pedals from your crank arms. Insert an 8mm hex wrench into the rear of the spindle and rotate counterclockwise for the right pedal and clockwise for the left pedal (reverse thread). Carefully set the pedals aside on a clean workbench or soft cloth to avoid damaging the carbon body.

Disassembling the Pedal Body

Begin by removing the end cap located at the outer end of the pedal spindle. This cap protects the bearing cavity and helps retain the grease. Gently pry it off with a small flat-head screwdriver or, on newer models, unscrew it using a 10mm socket.

Once removed, the outer cartridge bearing becomes visible. The spindle can now be pulled gently out of the pedal body. Pay attention to the washer and small O-ring located near the bearing—these must be reinstalled in the correct order during reassembly.

Extracting the Bearings

Use a bearing puller or a drift tool to carefully remove the outer sealed bearing from the pedal body. Apply even pressure to avoid damaging the carbon shell. If the inner bushing is worn, remove it as well using a thin screwdriver, taking care not to scratch the spindle housing.

Clean the interior thoroughly using a lint-free cloth and a degreaser. This step removes old grease and any debris that may have entered the system over time.

Installing New Bearings

Press the new cartridge bearing into the pedal body by hand, ensuring it sits squarely within the housing. Do not force it in at an angle. A bearing press [paid link] or soft-faced mallet can help seat it evenly.

For the inner bushing, apply a small amount of waterproof grease before sliding it onto the spindle. Then reinsert the spindle through the new bearing, ensuring smooth and consistent rotation without resistance.

Check for proper alignment before reinstalling the O-ring, washer, and end cap. Tighten the cap gently but securely—do not overtighten, as this can compress the bearing seals and reduce free rotation.

Re-Greasing and Reassembly

Apply a thin layer of high-quality waterproof grease to both sides of the spindle, focusing especially on the contact surfaces between the bearing and bushing. Greasing prevents corrosion and reduces friction under high torque loads.

Reinstall the spindle into the pedal body, followed by the end cap. Check that the pedal spins smoothly with minimal lateral play. If any stiffness is felt, back off the end cap slightly until free movement is achieved.

Testing the Pedal Performance

Once reassembled, reinstall the pedals onto your crank arms using an 8mm hex wrench. Torque each pedal to approximately 35–40 Nm. Spin the pedals by hand to confirm smooth operation.

During your next ride, pay attention to how the pedals feel under load. A properly serviced TIME ATAC XC 8 should rotate freely, engage cleanly with your cleats, and show no signs of resistance or noise.

Maintenance Frequency and Preventive Care

To maximize the lifespan of your bearings:

  • Clean your pedals after every few rides, especially in wet or muddy conditions.
  • Re-grease the spindle ends every 3–6 months depending on riding frequency.
  • Replace bearings annually or after approximately 10,000–12,000 km of use.

Routine care ensures consistent engagement and prevents excessive wear on the pedal body or spindle.

Troubleshooting Bearing Replacement Issues

If you experience persistent stiffness after installing new bearings, inspect for misalignment during pressing or debris trapped between the bearing and housing. Excessive side play often indicates missing washers or worn bushings that need replacement.

Grinding or metallic noises may result from over-tightened end caps or dry spindle surfaces. Re-greasing usually resolves this problem quickly.

Comparison: TIME ATAC XC 8 vs. TIME ATAC XC 6 Bearing Design

While the ATAC XC 8 uses a carbon body and higher-quality sealed bearings, the ATAC XC 6 [paid link] employs a composite body with slightly lower-grade bearing materials. As a result, XC 8 bearings tend to last longer under the same riding conditions. However, both models share similar internal structures, making maintenance procedures nearly identical.

The primary difference lies in bearing longevity and smoothness of rotation, where the XC 8 offers a more refined feel suitable for competitive cross-country riders.

Conclusion

Replacing or servicing the bearings in your TIME ATAC XC 8 pedals is a straightforward process when done methodically and with the correct tools. Regular maintenance not only ensures optimal performance but also extends the life of your pedals significantly. By inspecting the bearing condition periodically and following proper re-greasing intervals, you can maintain the signature smoothness and reliability that define the TIME ATAC XC 8 system.