The TIME ATAC XC 6[paid link] pedals are designed for cross-country riders who demand durability, precision engagement, and efficient power transfer. Built with a composite body and hollow steel axle, these pedals deliver lightweight strength and easy entry and release. However, even a robust model like the ATAC XC 6 requires consistent care to maintain peak performance over time. This guide provides a comprehensive maintenance plan, helping you preserve your pedal’s engagement smoothness, bearing life, and long-term reliability.
Understanding the ATAC XC 6 Pedal Design
The ATAC XC 6 pedal system uses TIME’s signature Auto Tension Adjustment Concept (ATAC), which ensures quick and positive engagement even in muddy or gritty conditions. The open, self-cleaning retention mechanism clears debris with every pedal stroke. A hollow steel axle provides stiffness without unnecessary weight, while sealed bearings and bushings handle rotational loads efficiently.
Because of this hybrid structure—steel, composite, and sealed internals—maintenance focuses on protecting the bearing seals, keeping the engagement system clean, and ensuring correct spring tension. A well-maintained ATAC XC 6 offers consistent float and release angles that prevent knee strain and improve pedaling comfort.
Tools Required
- 8 mm hex wrench
- 17 mm cone wrench[paid link]
- Grease gun or small grease syringe
- Clean rags
- Isopropyl alcohol
- Medium-quality bike grease
- Torque wrench[paid link] (optional but recommended)
Routine Cleaning and Maintenance Schedule
To extend the lifespan of your ATAC XC 6 pedals, follow a structured cleaning and inspection schedule based on riding conditions.
After Every Ride
Wipe the pedals with a clean, damp cloth to remove dirt and grime. If the ride involved mud or rain, use mild soapy water and a soft brush to clean the engagement mechanism. Avoid high-pressure washers, as they can force water past the seals and into the bearings.
Weekly or Every 100 km
Inspect both pedal bodies for visible wear, especially near the engagement bars. Check that the springs are clean and rust-free. Rotate the pedal body by hand; it should feel smooth with no grinding or resistance. Any gritty feeling suggests water ingress and may require regreasing.
Every 3 Months or 1000 km
Perform a more thorough service:
- Remove the pedals using an 8 mm hex wrench.
- Clean the threads on the crank arm and reapply grease before reinstalling.
- Check the retention bars for any deformation or corrosion.
- Apply a drop of light lubricant to the spring contact points to maintain consistent entry and release.
Bearing and Bushing Service
The ATAC XC 6 uses a sealed cartridge bearing on the outboard side and a nylon bushing on the inboard side. Over time, these components can dry out, causing stiffness or noise.
Disassembly and Regreasing
- Remove the end cap using a 17 mm cone wrench[paid link].
- Slide the axle out carefully, taking note of the bearing and bushing orientation.
- Wipe all components with isopropyl alcohol to remove old grease.
- Apply a fresh layer of medium bike grease to the bushing and around the bearing seals.
- Reinsert the axle and tighten the end cap to 4–5 Nm torque.
This service should be performed every 6 months for regular riders or every 3 months in wet or muddy conditions.
Tension and Engagement Maintenance
TIME’s ATAC system uses a self-adjusting spring tension design, but it can still benefit from periodic inspection. If clipping in feels inconsistent or excessively tight, dirt may be obstructing the engagement mechanism.
- Clean the spring area using a soft brush and isopropyl alcohol.
- Lightly lubricate the moving parts with a dry Teflon-based lubricant.
- Check for visible wear on the retention bars; worn edges can make cleat engagement less positive.
Avoid over-lubricating, as excess grease attracts dirt and compromises engagement precision.
Cleat Inspection and Replacement
The TIME ATAC cleats[paid link] directly influence pedal feel and release consistency. Inspect them regularly:
- Replace cleats once they show significant rounding on the engagement surfaces.
- Ensure both cleats are positioned symmetrically to maintain equal float and release angles.
- Use the recommended torque of 5 Nm when installing cleats.
Worn cleats can create a false sense of looseness in the pedal system, so timely replacement restores factory engagement feel.
Troubleshooting Common Wear Indicators
Even with consistent care, your ATAC XC 6 pedals will show gradual signs of wear. Recognizing them early prevents costly replacements.
- Squeaking or clicking sounds: Usually from dry bushings or lack of grease.
- Stiff rotation: Dirt or corrosion inside the bearing assembly.
- Loose feel during pedaling: Worn cleats or excessive play between the axle and body.
- Difficult engagement: Debris in the spring area or worn retention bars.
A quick service session usually resolves these issues without the need for full replacement.
Long-Term Performance Optimization
To keep your ATAC XC 6 pedals running like new, prioritize environmental control and consistent lubrication. Store your bike in a dry place, especially after wet rides. Periodically check the pedal threads and crank interface to prevent creaking noises caused by metal-to-metal contact.
Additionally, pairing the pedals with new cleats every 3000–4000 km keeps the engagement crisp and predictable. Consistent cleaning after each ride prevents seal wear and reduces the frequency of full disassembly services.
Storage and Off-Season Care
If storing your bike for an extended period:
- Remove the pedals to prevent corrosion at the crank threads.
- Wipe all metal parts with a light film of oil.
- Keep pedals in a temperature-controlled, dry space.
When you reinstall them for the next season, regrease the threads and inspect for any stiffness before riding.
Conclusion
The TIME ATAC XC 6 pedals deliver years of reliable performance when properly maintained. Their self-cleaning mechanism and sealed internals reduce upkeep compared to many competitors, but regular care ensures their mechanical precision endures. By following this structured maintenance plan—cleaning, lubricating, inspecting, and servicing at consistent intervals—you can keep your set-up operating flawlessly across seasons and terrain.