The TIME MX 6 [paid link] pedals are designed for trail and all-mountain riders who demand both performance and durability. Over time, even well-maintained pedals experience bearing wear due to dirt ingress, water exposure, and high torque loads. Regular servicing or bearing replacement is essential to maintain smooth rotation and long-term reliability. This guide provides a complete, technical walkthrough for replacing and servicing the bearings in your TIME MX 6 [paid link] pedals.
Tools Required
- 8 mm hex wrench
- 6 mm hex wrench
- 10 mm socket wrench or spanner
- Torque wrench [paid link] (recommended range: 8–12 Nm)
- Bearing puller or drift punch
- Small flat-head screwdriver
- Grease (water-resistant, high-pressure type)
- Replacement bearings (specific to TIME MX 6)
- Shop towel or lint-free cloth
Understanding the TIME MX 6 Bearing System
The TIME MX 6 pedals use a combination of cartridge bearings and bushings to provide low-friction performance under load. The inboard side (closest to the crank) typically houses a bushing, while the outboard side uses a sealed cartridge bearing. This hybrid setup minimizes weight while maintaining rigidity.
Unlike some older models, the MX 6 design allows for relatively easy bearing replacement without the need for proprietary tools. However, improper handling can damage the spindle or seal interface, so precision and patience are critical.
Removing the Pedals from the Crank Arms
Before servicing, remove both pedals from the crankset. The right pedal loosens counterclockwise, while the left pedal loosens clockwise due to its reverse thread. Use an 8 mm hex wrench inserted into the back of the pedal axle for leverage. Apply firm, even pressure to avoid rounding the interface.
After removal, clean any dirt or debris from the pedal threads. Inspect the spindle ends for damage, especially near the crank interface, as excessive wear can affect reinstallation alignment.
Disassembling the Pedal Body
To access the bearings, the pedal body must be separated from the axle assembly. Begin by removing the end cap on the outboard side using a 6 mm hex wrench. Once the cap is off, you’ll expose the retaining nut or bolt that secures the spindle within the pedal body.
Carefully unscrew this fastener using a 10 mm socket wrench. Keep track of the washer or spacer underneath—it ensures the correct preload on the bearing system. With the fastener removed, pull the pedal body away from the spindle. The outboard bearing will typically remain seated within the pedal body.
Use caution during this step to prevent damage to the internal dust seals, which protect the bearing chamber from contamination.
Extracting the Old Bearings
With the spindle removed, inspect the bearing surfaces for wear or corrosion. If the rotation feels gritty or uneven, it’s time to replace the bearing. Using a bearing puller or drift punch, gently tap out the bearing from the outer side of the pedal body. Avoid using excessive force, as the bearing seats in a relatively thin aluminum shell.
If your MX 6 pedals use a bushing on the inboard side, check for play or deformation. Bushings showing visible wear or an ovalized shape should also be replaced. Some models include a bushing insert that can be pressed out using a drift and a soft mallet.
Once all old components are removed, clean the bearing housing thoroughly using a degreaser or isopropyl alcohol. Ensure no debris remains inside the bore.
Installing the New Bearings
Before pressing the new bearing into place, apply a thin layer of grease to the housing bore. This helps prevent corrosion and facilitates future servicing. Align the new bearing squarely with the bore and press it in gently using a bearing press [paid link] or socket of matching diameter. Ensure it seats fully against the internal stop without tilting.
For the inboard bushing, slide it into position and ensure the spindle rotates freely without lateral play. If resistance occurs, remove and inspect for misalignment or contamination.
Next, reinsert the spindle through the pedal body, making sure it passes cleanly through both the bushing and new bearing. If the spindle does not glide smoothly, lightly adjust alignment before tightening the retaining fastener.
Reassembling and Greasing
Once the spindle is correctly seated, reinstall the retaining nut or bolt. Tighten it to the manufacturer’s specified torque (8–12 Nm). Apply a small amount of grease to the threads to prevent seizing.
Before reinstalling the end cap, add a thin layer of grease around the outboard bearing seal to improve moisture resistance. Replace the cap securely but do not overtighten, as excessive force can compress the seal and hinder bearing rotation.
Wipe away any excess grease or dirt from the pedal body. At this stage, the pedal should spin smoothly with no grinding or binding.
Testing and Quality Check
Reinstall the pedals onto the crank arms, observing proper threading directions. Tighten them to a torque of 35–40 Nm. Rotate each pedal by hand to ensure consistent smoothness and verify there is no lateral movement between the pedal body and spindle.
A short test ride is recommended. Pay attention to any noise, resistance, or play. If either pedal feels rough, it may indicate an improperly seated bearing or a contaminated bushing. Reopen and inspect if necessary.
Maintenance Intervals and Best Practices
TIME recommends inspecting and re-greasing MX 6 bearings every 2,000–3,000 kilometers for typical off-road use. However, riders who frequently encounter wet or muddy trails should service the pedals more frequently.
Avoid high-pressure water sprays when cleaning your bike, as this can force moisture past the seals. Instead, use mild soap and a soft brush to clean around the spindle area. Regular lubrication of the bushing side also extends service life by reducing friction between the spindle and inner sleeve.
If you ride in extreme environments—such as desert dust or alpine mud—consider upgrading to stainless steel bearings for increased durability.
Troubleshooting Common Bearing Issues
- Rough or gritty rotation: Bearing contamination or corrosion; clean and replace bearings as needed.
- Pedal play or looseness: Worn bushing or incorrect torque on retaining nut.
- Creaking noises: Dry spindle-bushing interface; reapply grease and reassemble.
- Resistance when spinning: Over-tightened retaining nut or misaligned bearing seat.
Regular inspection helps identify these issues early, preventing spindle damage or complete bearing seizure.
Conclusion
Servicing or replacing the bearings in your TIME MX 6 pedals restores their original precision and ensures smooth, consistent performance. By following the correct procedure and adhering to recommended torque values, you can extend the lifespan of your pedals while maintaining optimal engagement feel. Consistent maintenance not only protects your investment but also enhances your riding experience on every trail.