The TIME MX 8 [paid link] pedals are renowned for their exceptional balance of weight, durability, and power transfer, making them a top choice among performance-oriented riders who value precision and reliability. Whether you’re using them for endurance road rides, gravel adventures, or technical XC terrain, maintaining your TIME MX 8 [paid link] pedals is critical to ensuring consistent engagement, smooth rotation, and long-term performance. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step explanation of how to properly maintain your TIME MX 8 pedals, prevent premature wear, and optimize their function for years of reliable riding.
Tools Required
- 8 mm Allen key
- Torque wrench [paid link]
- Pedal wrench [paid link] (optional, for removal)
- Small flat-head screwdriver or pick
- Bearing grease (high-quality waterproof type)
- Degreaser and cleaning brush
- Lint-free cloth
- Light lubricant
Understanding the TIME MX 8 Pedal Design
The TIME MX 8 pedals use the brand’s renowned ATAC (Auto Tension Adjustment Concept) system, offering self-cleaning engagement, consistent release tension, and minimal maintenance demands. The composite body paired with a hollow steel axle provides strength without excessive weight. Understanding this system is essential before performing maintenance, as the ATAC mechanism relies on spring elasticity and precise alignment of the engagement bars to function properly.
The MX 8’s engagement mechanism consists of two steel bars that hold the cleat in place while allowing for angular float. This float helps protect the rider’s knees and provides a natural pedaling motion. The bearings and bushings inside the pedal body are factory-sealed but can be serviced for smoother operation when they begin to feel gritty or resist rotation.
Cleaning the TIME MX 8 Pedals
Regular cleaning is the first and most important maintenance task. Dirt and grit can affect engagement precision and accelerate bearing wear. After each ride—especially in muddy or rainy conditions—wipe down the pedals thoroughly using a damp cloth and mild degreaser.
Avoid using high-pressure water, as it can push contaminants into the bearing seals. Instead, use a soft brush to remove mud from the ATAC mechanism. Once clean, apply a small amount of light lubricant to the engagement bars and pivot points. This prevents corrosion and keeps the spring mechanism responsive.
Servicing the Bearings
Although the MX 8 pedals use sealed bearings, they still require occasional servicing to maintain smooth rotation. Over time, contaminants may work past the seals, causing stiffness or rough movement.
To service the bearings:
- Remove the pedal from the crank using an 8 mm Allen key or pedal wrench [paid link].
- Using a small flat-head screwdriver, gently pry off the end cap on the pedal axle.
- Slide the axle out carefully. Clean it with a degreaser and wipe away old grease.
- Inspect the bearings and bushings. If they feel gritty or show signs of wear, replace them with a TIME MX 8 service kit.
- Apply fresh waterproof bearing grease to the bearings and reinstall the axle.
- Replace the end cap securely, ensuring no gaps remain.
This service should be performed every 3,000–5,000 km or sooner if you frequently ride in wet or dusty environments.
Checking and Adjusting Cleats
Proper cleat maintenance ensures reliable engagement and release from your TIME MX 8 pedals. Worn or dirty cleats can cause inconsistent entry or release tension, which can compromise performance and safety.
Remove the cleats from your shoes every few months to clean both the cleat and the pedal interface area. Use a stiff brush to clear any packed debris. If the cleats show significant wear on the contact surfaces, replace them immediately with new TIME ATAC cleats [paid link].
Correct cleat alignment is equally important. Misalignment can cause uneven engagement or unwanted float. Reinstall the cleats ensuring they are centered and angled to your natural foot position. Tighten them to the manufacturer’s torque specification to prevent movement during riding.
Lubricating the Engagement Mechanism
The ATAC mechanism relies on smooth spring movement to engage and release efficiently. Every few weeks—or after riding in wet conditions—apply a small amount of dry lubricant to the springs and engagement bars. Avoid thick greases or oils that can attract dirt. Lightly wipe off any excess after lubrication to prevent buildup.
This simple routine preserves the responsiveness of the mechanism and prevents corrosion over time. Regular lubrication also minimizes the risk of creaking or stiffness when clipping in and out.
Inspecting for Wear or Damage
Over time, the MX 8 pedal body and engagement bars can show signs of surface wear. While minor cosmetic scratches are normal, deep gouges or bent engagement bars can affect clip-in consistency and should be addressed immediately.
Inspect both pedals closely for any cracks in the composite body or looseness in the axle assembly. If the axle feels wobbly or there’s noticeable lateral play, it’s likely that the bushings or bearings need replacement. Ignoring these early signs of wear can lead to premature pedal failure.
Optimizing Pedal Performance
To maximize the performance of your TIME MX 8 pedals, combine regular cleaning with proper lubrication and timely bearing servicing. Ensure your cleats are clean and correctly aligned. This not only enhances engagement feel but also maintains consistent power transfer throughout your pedal stroke.
Riders who frequently ride in wet or muddy conditions should clean and re-lubricate their pedals more often, as the ATAC system’s open design, while self-cleaning, still benefits from preventative care. Storing the bike in a dry environment also extends pedal lifespan by preventing corrosion on metal components.
Common Maintenance Mistakes to Avoid
Many riders neglect pedal maintenance until they experience stiffness or engagement issues. Avoid using pressure washers or solvent-heavy cleaners that can strip grease from internal bearings. Over-lubrication is another frequent mistake—it attracts dirt and reduces performance over time.
Another error is failing to replace worn cleats. Even slightly rounded cleat edges can cause inconsistent release tension. Regular inspection and timely replacement ensure smooth engagement and predictable release under all conditions.
Troubleshooting Engagement Issues
If you experience difficulty clipping in or out, first clean the mechanism thoroughly and inspect for debris buildup. If engagement remains inconsistent, check the cleat for excessive wear or deformation. Re-greasing the springs and pivot points usually restores smooth performance.
For riders feeling excessive float or instability, verify cleat alignment and ensure both cleats are evenly worn. Pedals that feel rough during rotation likely need bearing servicing or replacement.
Final Thoughts
The TIME MX 8 pedals are engineered for riders who demand a blend of performance, durability, and comfort. Proper maintenance not only extends their service life but also enhances ride quality. By regularly cleaning, lubricating, and inspecting your MX 8 pedals, you’ll ensure they continue to deliver the precise, reliable engagement that TIME is known for—ride after ride.