The TIME DH 8 [paid link] pedals are engineered for riders who demand maximum power transfer, durability, and precision engagement under intense riding conditions. However, even the most robust pedal systems can experience premature wear without proper care and attention. This guide explains how to keep your TIME DH 8 [paid link] pedals running smoothly for years by understanding their design, applying correct maintenance practices, and recognizing early signs of wear.
Understanding the TIME DH 8 Pedal Design
The TIME DH 8 pedals use a carbon composite body paired with a steel axle and micro-adjustable engagement tension system. They feature TIME’s signature ATAC (Auto Tension Adjustment Concept), allowing reliable entry and release even in muddy conditions. The self-cleaning mechanism helps clear debris efficiently, but like all mechanical interfaces, it relies on periodic maintenance to prevent internal wear.
Inside, the DH 8 pedals are built around dual-sealed cartridge bearings and bushings. These components are exposed to high rotational loads, environmental contaminants, and vibration—all of which can accelerate wear when lubrication is neglected or seals are damaged.
Tools Required
Before performing any maintenance, prepare the following tools:
- 8 mm hex wrench
- 15 mm pedal wrench [paid link] (optional, depending on crank design)
- Torque wrench [paid link]
- Cleaning brush and microfiber cloth
- Grease suitable for high-load bearings
- Isopropyl alcohol or mild degreaser
- Replacement seals and bearings (if required)
Step 1: Inspect the Pedals Regularly
Routine inspection is the foundation of long pedal life. Check for signs of corrosion around the axle interface, worn cleat contact points, or uneven movement in the engagement mechanism. If your pedals start to develop side-to-side play, the bushings or bearings may be wearing prematurely.
Rotate the pedal body by hand. It should spin freely and quietly. Any grinding, clicking, or stiffness indicates contamination or internal damage. Addressing these issues early prevents deeper structural damage to the spindle and body.
Step 2: Keep the Engagement Mechanism Clean
The ATAC system works best when kept clean. Mud, dust, and road grit can increase friction, wearing down the spring and contact surfaces faster. After each ride—especially in wet or dusty conditions—wipe the pedals with a damp cloth.
For deep cleaning, use a soft brush and mild degreaser to remove stubborn dirt from around the engagement claws and spring assembly. Rinse lightly with water and dry completely. Avoid high-pressure washers, as they can force water into the bearing seals.
Once clean, apply a small amount of light lubricant to the spring and pivot points. This reduces friction and prevents corrosion without attracting excessive dirt.
Step 3: Maintain Proper Lubrication
TIME DH 8 pedals rely heavily on lubrication to protect internal components from metal-on-metal friction. Every 20–30 hours of riding, or more often in wet conditions, remove the pedals and inject a thin layer of high-quality grease into the bearing area.
If the pedal uses a removable end cap, unscrew it carefully, clean the inside with a lint-free cloth, and re-grease the bearings. For sealed cartridge bearings, avoid overpacking with grease, which can cause seal deformation.
Consistent lubrication reduces rolling resistance, improves engagement smoothness, and significantly extends the service life of both the bearings and bushings.
Step 4: Avoid Over-Tightening During Installation
Over-torquing the pedals during installation can cause micro-cracks in the carbon composite body and stress the spindle threads. Always tighten your DH 8 pedals to the recommended 35–40 Nm using a calibrated torque wrench [paid link].
Before installation, apply a small amount of anti-seize compound or grease to the pedal threads. This not only prevents corrosion but also makes future removal easier, reducing the risk of thread wear in the crank arm.
Step 5: Replace Worn Cleats Promptly
One of the most overlooked causes of premature pedal wear is the use of worn cleats. As cleats degrade, they create uneven pressure on the pedal engagement surfaces, accelerating metal fatigue and damaging the ATAC interface.
Inspect your cleats for rounding, cracks, or uneven surfaces. TIME recommends replacing cleats once engagement feels loose or inconsistent. Using fresh cleats ensures optimal retention and prolongs both pedal and shoe life.
Step 6: Protect Pedals from Environmental Exposure
When storing your bike, avoid leaving it in damp or high-humidity environments. Prolonged exposure to moisture can compromise bearing seals and cause oxidation on the steel spindle.
If you often ride in rain or through muddy terrain, consider removing the pedals occasionally to clean and inspect the spindle threads. Apply a protective layer of grease or corrosion inhibitor before reinstalling. This simple routine prevents rust from spreading internally and maintains smooth pedal rotation.
Step 7: Monitor Bearing and Bushing Wear
The dual-seal bearing and bushing system in the DH 8 pedals is durable but not invincible. Over time, dirt intrusion or insufficient lubrication can lead to grinding or uneven movement. If this occurs, servicing or replacing the bearings is necessary.
To check for bearing play, hold the pedal body and try moving it laterally against the spindle. Any noticeable movement suggests worn bushings or loose bearings. Rebuilding the pedal with new bearings restores precision and prevents further axle wear.
Step 8: Schedule Preventive Servicing
A proactive maintenance schedule ensures that wear never reaches a critical point. Perform a full cleaning and lubrication every three months or 1,000 km, depending on riding frequency and conditions. For riders who train daily, monthly servicing is recommended.
During each service, inspect the engagement spring tension. If release feels inconsistent, check for spring fatigue or contamination in the pivot area. Early intervention prevents small issues from developing into expensive replacements.
Step 9: Recognize the Signs of Premature Wear
Premature wear in TIME DH 8 pedals often shows as:
- Increased play between pedal and shoe
- Noisy or rough bearing rotation
- Difficulty clipping in or out
- Uneven pedal feel between left and right sides
When these signs appear, disassemble and inspect internal components immediately. Replacing small parts like seals, bearings, or cleats early is far more cost-effective than replacing the entire pedal body.
Step 10: Use Compatible Shoes and Cleats
TIME DH 8 pedals are optimized for TIME ATAC cleats [paid link], and using non-compatible systems can lead to excessive wear or poor engagement. Even slight dimensional differences in third-party cleats can cause premature deformation of the pedal contact surfaces.
Always pair the DH 8 with genuine TIME components to ensure proper fit, predictable release tension, and maximum longevity.
Conclusion
Extending the lifespan of your TIME DH 8 pedals is about combining regular cleaning, proper lubrication, and timely component inspection. By maintaining the engagement system, monitoring wear, and avoiding improper installation practices, you can keep your pedals performing at factory precision for thousands of kilometers.
Consistent preventive maintenance not only enhances your riding efficiency but also protects your investment—ensuring that every ride feels as crisp and responsive as the first.