The TIME ATAC XC 2[paid link] pedals are known for their reliability, mud-shedding efficiency, and solid performance for cross-country riders. However, as cyclists seek to enhance efficiency, reduce weight, or improve engagement feel, the question often arises: Can you upgrade your TIME ATAC XC 2[paid link] pedals, and if so, how should you do it correctly?
This guide explores all aspects of upgrading the ATAC XC 2 pedals — from component compatibility to practical upgrade paths — and offers best practices to ensure your modifications preserve performance and durability.
Understanding the TIME ATAC XC 2 Pedal Design
The ATAC XC 2 is built around TIME’s Auto Tension Adjustment Concept (ATAC) system, which delivers consistent engagement and self-cleaning properties. The body is constructed from fiberglass-reinforced composite, offering a balance of durability and lightweight performance. The spindle is steel, and the bearings are factory-sealed for low maintenance.
Because of its modular design, some internal and external components can be upgraded or replaced. However, any modification must maintain alignment with TIME’s engagement geometry to avoid performance degradation or premature wear.
Compatibility Overview: What Can Be Upgraded
While the ATAC XC 2 shares its core mechanism with higher-end ATAC models, such as the XC 6, XC 8, and XC 12, not all components are directly interchangeable. Compatibility depends primarily on three aspects: spindle type, bearing assembly, and body material.
Pedal Body and Axle Compatibility
The pedal body of the ATAC XC 2 is bonded to a chromoly steel axle. Although higher-end models like the XC 12 use titanium axles, direct swaps are not recommended because the spindle tolerances and bearing interface differ slightly. Attempting to retrofit a titanium axle may lead to instability or increased wear on the bearing seals.
Bearing and Bushing Upgrades
Internally, the ATAC XC 2 uses a bushing and sealed bearing combination. These can be upgraded using TIME’s service kits designed for the ATAC XC series. Higher-quality sealed bearings can improve rotational smoothness and longevity, particularly under wet or muddy riding conditions.
When replacing bearings, always match the inner and outer diameters precisely to maintain proper preload on the spindle. Using incompatible bearings can create excess play, leading to creaking noises or uneven pedal rotation.
Cleat Compatibility
The ATAC cleat system is consistent across all TIME mountain and XC pedals. Riders can upgrade to ATAC Easy cleats if they prefer a lighter release tension, which improves entry and exit comfort without changing float or angular movement. Conversely, using standard ATAC cleats[paid link] provides a firmer retention feel preferred for racing and aggressive riding.
Spring and Retention System
Unlike some clipless pedal systems, the ATAC XC 2’s dual-arch retention springs are not designed for replacement or customization. However, higher-tier models such as the XC 8 and XC 12 feature stiffer springs and lighter bodies. Riders seeking a different engagement feel or reduced weight may consider upgrading to those complete pedal models rather than modifying spring tension directly.
Recommended Upgrade Paths
Upgrading the TIME ATAC XC 2 pedals can be approached in several ways depending on rider goals:
1. Bearing and Seal Upgrade
Replacing the factory bearings and seals with higher-quality equivalents is one of the most effective and affordable upgrades. This enhances smoothness and longevity, especially in adverse weather conditions.
2. Cleat Optimization
Switching between ATAC Easy and standard cleats allows fine-tuning of release tension and entry feel. Riders can also experiment with cleat shims to alter float angles and optimize knee alignment for comfort and power efficiency.
3. Pedal Body Replacement
If the pedal body shows wear or damage, upgrading to a higher model such as the ATAC XC 6[paid link] offers an aluminum body and improved durability while maintaining full cleat compatibility.
4. Complete Model Upgrade
For riders prioritizing weight reduction or more precise engagement, moving up to the ATAC XC 8 or XC 12 may be a more practical investment than incremental upgrades. These models include factory-engineered improvements in spindle materials and spring tension consistency.
Best Practices for Performing Upgrades
Maintaining the integrity of the ATAC engagement system requires precision. When performing any upgrade:
- Always use original TIME service kits or compatible aftermarket parts specifically labeled for ATAC XC pedals.
- Reapply a thin layer of water-resistant grease on spindle threads and bearing interfaces during reassembly.
- After upgrades, perform a spin test to ensure even rotation without friction or side play.
- Check retention engagement by clipping in and out several times with both shoes to confirm symmetrical operation.
- Avoid using solvents or aggressive cleaners on seals and bushings, as they may degrade plastic components.
Proper attention to reassembly torque (typically 8–10 Nm for the pedal spindle) ensures the pedal threads seat correctly in the crank arm without causing premature wear.
Common Compatibility Issues to Avoid
Upgrading the ATAC XC 2 pedals can lead to compatibility problems if incorrect parts are used. Common issues include:
- Using non-TIME axles, which can compromise bearing alignment.
- Installing non-standard bearings with different tolerances, leading to side play or premature wear.
- Mixing cleat systems from other brands, resulting in unsafe engagement or release.
- Over-greasing the spindle, which can create hydraulic pressure and push seals out of position.
Avoiding these mistakes preserves the ATAC system’s signature stability and reliability.
When to Replace Instead of Upgrade
If the pedal’s composite body has excessive wear, cracks, or play in the axle that cannot be corrected with a bearing replacement, it is more cost-effective to replace the pedals entirely. The ATAC XC 6[paid link] and XC 8 are direct replacements offering improved materials and reduced weight while maintaining the same cleat interface.
Replacing instead of upgrading also ensures that factory tolerances and spring tension are maintained — critical factors for consistent engagement and release performance.
Conclusion
Upgrading your TIME ATAC XC 2 pedals is both possible and worthwhile when approached with care and precision. While some components such as bearings, seals, and cleats offer direct upgrade paths, others — like the spring assembly and axle — are best left unmodified.
For riders seeking smoother rotation, longer service intervals, or slightly altered engagement characteristics, targeted upgrades using original TIME parts can yield excellent results. However, for substantial performance improvements such as reduced weight or higher stiffness, upgrading to a higher-tier ATAC model may be the most effective long-term solution.
By following proper compatibility practices and precise installation methods, the TIME ATAC XC 2 pedals can deliver years of reliable, efficient performance on any terrain.