The TIME DH 6 [paid link] pedals are purpose-built for aggressive downhill and enduro riding, offering a secure engagement system, durable body design, and excellent mud clearance. However, these pedals demand precise installation and careful maintenance to deliver their full performance potential. Many riders unintentionally compromise their DH 6 [paid link] setup due to small but critical errors. This guide explains the most common TIME DH 6 pedal mistakes, how to avoid them, and how to maintain a flawless setup for long-term reliability.
Understanding the Design and Mechanics of the TIME DH 6
Before installation or servicing, it’s essential to understand the pedal’s structure. The TIME DH 6 uses a dual-arch engagement system with self-cleaning retention bars that optimize entry and release even in muddy or dusty conditions. Its aluminum body and steel axle are built for durability, but incorrect torque, lubrication, or alignment can quickly degrade these components.
The DH 6 also offers adjustable spring tension, allowing riders to customize cleat release resistance. If this adjustment is mishandled or neglected, it can cause premature wear or unreliable engagement.
Tools Required
- 8 mm hex wrench
- Torque wrench [paid link] (5–7 Nm range)
- Medium-strength threadlocker
- Cleat alignment tool
- Grease (lithium-based or pedal-specific)
- Rag and degreaser
Mistake 1: Over-Tightening the Pedal Threads
One of the most damaging mistakes is over-torquing the pedal threads into the crank arms. Many mechanics assume tighter equals better, but on the DH 6, excessive torque can cause thread stripping or crank arm stress fractures.
Always follow TIME’s recommended torque specification of 35–40 Nm. Using a torque wrench [paid link] ensures consistent and safe tightening. Additionally, apply a light coating of grease or anti-seize compound to the threads to prevent galling, especially on aluminum cranks.
Mistake 2: Ignoring Cleat Alignment and Wear
Improper cleat alignment is another frequent cause of poor engagement or knee discomfort. The DH 6 pedal relies heavily on precise cleat positioning to engage the self-centering mechanism correctly. Misaligned cleats can cause uneven release tension or unpredictable disengagement during descents.
Check cleat wear after every 500 km of riding. Replace them if the contact edges become rounded or if the retention notches show visible deformation. Worn cleats can lead to unintended release, especially under high torque loads typical in downhill sections.
Mistake 3: Neglecting Bearing and Axle Maintenance
The DH 6 pedals use sealed cartridge bearings combined with bushings on the inner spindle. While these components are well-protected, they still require periodic servicing. Failing to clean and re-grease the internals can result in bearing contamination, increased friction, and premature axle play.
Every 2,000–3,000 km (or sooner for muddy conditions), remove the end cap, slide out the axle, and clean the internal surfaces with degreaser. Repack the bearings and bushing interface with fresh grease before reassembly. This ensures smooth rotation and extends the service life significantly.
Mistake 4: Misadjusting Spring Tension
The adjustable retention tension on the DH 6 allows riders to fine-tune clip-in and release forces. However, many riders make the mistake of setting tension too high, thinking it prevents accidental disengagement. In reality, overtightened springs strain the engagement mechanism and can cause premature spring fatigue or cracked retention bars.
The correct approach is to start from the lowest tension setting and gradually increase it until the desired retention force is achieved. Check both pedals to ensure tension symmetry; mismatched settings can lead to inconsistent feel between the left and right pedals.
Mistake 5: Installing Pedals Without Threadlocker
TIME DH 6 pedals generate significant torsional loads during high-speed downhill riding. Without a medium-strength threadlocker, the pedal threads can gradually loosen, causing creaking or wobbling during rides. This small issue often leads to crank thread damage or full pedal ejection under load.
Apply a thin layer of blue threadlocker before installation to secure the threads while still allowing future removal. Avoid red (high-strength) compounds, which can make removal nearly impossible without damaging the crank arm.
Mistake 6: Failing to Clean the Retention Mechanism
The DH 6’s open retention design provides excellent mud shedding, but it’s not maintenance-free. Riders who neglect cleaning after muddy rides may find that the engagement system becomes sticky or inconsistent. Dirt buildup around the retention bars interferes with the self-cleaning action and can cause false engagement sensations.
After each muddy or wet session, rinse the pedals thoroughly with low-pressure water and dry them completely. Follow up with a light application of dry-film lubricant to the retention areas to preserve smooth operation. Avoid heavy greases in this zone—they attract more dirt.
Mistake 7: Using Incompatible Cleats or Shoes
The DH 6 is compatible with TIME ATAC cleats [paid link] only. Using third-party or look-alike cleats often results in poor engagement or damage to the retention springs. Similarly, some shoes with overly recessed tread patterns can interfere with full pedal engagement, leading to unstable footing.
Ensure that the shoe sole provides proper clearance for the retention bars. If necessary, trim small sections of rubber or use cleat spacers to achieve consistent pedal entry and exit performance.
Mistake 8: Forgetting to Check Axle Play
Over time, the pedal spindle may develop slight play if the retaining nut inside the body loosens. This is a subtle issue that many riders overlook, yet it accelerates bearing wear and housing deformation.
Check for axial movement by holding the pedal body and wiggling it side-to-side. If movement is felt, disassemble the pedal, clean the spindle threads, and re-tighten the inner nut according to the manufacturer’s specification. Regular inspection ensures the DH 6 retains its signature solid feel.
Mistake 9: Using Improper Lubricants
Lubrication choice is critical for the DH 6’s longevity. Using thick, sticky greases or automotive-grade lubricants can trap dirt and impair bearing performance. Always use bike-specific lithium or ceramic greases for internals and PTFE-based dry lubricants for external surfaces.
Avoid using oil-based lubes near the retention system—they migrate quickly and attract contaminants that reduce the lifespan of the springs and bars.
Mistake 10: Ignoring the Pedal’s Break-In Period
New DH 6 pedals may feel stiff initially, but this is intentional. The engagement surfaces are precision-machined and require a short break-in period (approximately 5–10 hours of riding). Riders who attempt to “force” engagement through excessive tension adjustments or lubrication often end up damaging the system prematurely.
Allow the pedals to wear in naturally through normal use. Once broken in, they’ll deliver the smooth, predictable engagement that TIME pedals are known for.
Conclusion
The TIME DH 6 pedals are engineered for demanding riders who value precision and durability. However, even the most robust design can fail when installed or maintained incorrectly. By avoiding the ten costly mistakes outlined above—especially those involving torque, alignment, and lubrication—you can preserve performance, extend service life, and ensure consistent engagement on every descent.
When properly maintained, the TIME DH 6 pedals will deliver the reliability and confidence required for world-class downhill performance.