How to Replace or Service the Bearings in Your TIME ATAC XC 12 Pedals

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The TIME ATAC XC 12 [paid link] pedals are among the most advanced cross-country pedals available today, known for their lightweight carbon body, titanium spindle, and exceptional mud-shedding performance. However, even the most premium pedals require regular bearing service to maintain smooth rotation and longevity. Over time, contaminants such as dust, grit, and water can compromise the pedal’s internal bearings, causing roughness or play in the axle. This guide explains in detail how to replace or service the bearings in your TIME ATAC XC 12 [paid link] pedals to restore optimal performance.

Tools Required

  • 8mm hex wrench
  • 9mm socket wrench
  • Torque wrench [paid link]
  • Small flathead screwdriver
  • Needle-nose pliers
  • Bearing puller or drift tool
  • Replacement bearing kit for TIME ATAC XC series
  • Waterproof grease (medium viscosity)
  • Clean rags or paper towels

Understanding the Bearing System of the ATAC XC 12

The TIME ATAC XC 12 pedal uses a hybrid bearing system that combines a sealed cartridge bearing on the inboard side and a needle bearing or bushing on the outboard side. This configuration ensures low rotational resistance while maintaining a light overall weight.

The sealed cartridge bearing supports the load near the crank arm, while the bushing or needle bearing stabilizes the pedal body toward the outer edge. Because the outboard bearing experiences more exposure to the elements, it typically requires cleaning or replacement more frequently than the inboard one.

When to Service or Replace the Bearings

Servicing intervals vary based on riding conditions, but general recommendations are:

  • Every 3,000–5,000 km for regular XC riders
  • After every wet or muddy season
  • Whenever you notice:
    • Creaking or grinding noise while pedaling
    • Excessive side-to-side play in the pedal body
    • Uneven or rough rotation when spinning the pedal by hand

Ignoring these signs can lead to spindle wear, which may require full pedal replacement rather than simple bearing service.

Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing or Servicing Bearings

1. Remove the Pedals from the Crank Arms

Insert an 8mm hex wrench into the back of the spindle and rotate counterclockwise to loosen. For carbon cranksets, take care not to strip the crank threads or over-torque during reinstallation.

2. Disassemble the Pedal Body

Once removed, locate the end cap on the outer side of the pedal. Using a small flathead screwdriver, carefully pry it off. Beneath the cap, you’ll find a retaining nut or lock ring that secures the spindle. Use a 9mm socket wrench to remove it.

Slide the pedal body gently off the spindle, taking note of the order of seals, spacers, and washers for correct reassembly.

3. Inspect the Bearings and Spindle

Wipe away any old grease or dirt using a clean rag. Rotate the bearings with your finger; if you feel grinding, looseness, or roughness, replacement is required. Check the spindle for wear or scoring—replace it if it shows deep grooves or discoloration.

4. Remove the Old Bearings

For the inboard bearing, use a bearing puller or drift tool to push it out from the opposite side of the pedal body. Be careful not to damage the carbon housing.

For the outboard bushing or needle bearing, use needle-nose pliers to remove it gently. If it feels tight, apply a small amount of penetrating oil and allow it to sit for a few minutes before attempting removal.

5. Clean and Prepare the Housing

Once the old bearings are removed, clean the bearing seats thoroughly. Remove any residue, corrosion, or old grease. Apply a thin coat of waterproof grease to the seats before installing the new bearings.

6. Install the New Bearings

Press the new sealed cartridge bearing into the inboard side using a press tool or a socket of matching diameter. It should sit flush with the housing.

For the outboard side, insert the needle bearing or bushing and ensure it is fully seated. Apply a light layer of grease over the visible bearing surfaces.

7. Reassemble the Pedal

Reinsert the spindle carefully through the pedal body, ensuring all seals and spacers are returned to their original positions. Reinstall the lock nut using a torque wrench [paid link] set to 6–8 Nm. Finally, press the end cap back into place.

8. Test the Rotation and Play

Spin the pedal by hand. It should rotate freely with no grinding or lateral movement. If resistance feels too tight, loosen the lock nut slightly and retighten within the specified torque range.

Optimizing Bearing Longevity

To keep your TIME ATAC XC 12 bearings running smoothly for years, follow these maintenance habits:

  • Clean your pedals after muddy or wet rides to prevent grit accumulation.
  • Avoid using high-pressure water directly on the spindle area, as it can push water into the bearings.
  • Re-grease the inboard seal every few months to prevent contamination.
  • Store your bike indoors in a dry environment to avoid corrosion.

Consistent maintenance not only extends bearing life but also ensures the pedal’s engagement mechanism performs at its best under demanding XC conditions.

Troubleshooting Common Post-Service Issues

If your pedals do not spin freely after servicing, the following may be the cause:

  • Overtightened lock nut: Loosen slightly to relieve bearing preload.
  • Misaligned bearing or seal: Ensure the bearing is seated evenly in the housing.
  • Contaminated grease: Use only high-quality waterproof grease; avoid thick automotive greases that restrict rotation.
  • Damaged spindle: Inspect for microscopic cracks or bends if rotation remains inconsistent after replacement.

Regularly checking for these issues prevents premature wear and costly damage to both pedal and crank interfaces.

Comparison: TIME ATAC XC 12 vs. ATAC XC 8 Bearing Design

While the ATAC XC 8 [paid link] shares a similar engagement mechanism, its bearing system differs slightly. The XC 8 uses a chromoly spindle and slightly heavier bearing assembly, whereas the XC 12 employs titanium spindles and higher-grade bearings for reduced weight and improved corrosion resistance. This makes the XC 12’s bearing service process more delicate but rewards riders with smoother rotation and greater durability when properly maintained.

Conclusion

Servicing or replacing the bearings in your TIME ATAC XC 12 pedals is a critical part of maintaining their world-class performance. With proper tools, care, and attention to detail, you can restore factory-smooth operation and extend the lifespan of your pedals for thousands of kilometers. Regular maintenance not only prevents costly wear but ensures that every pedal stroke delivers the efficiency, reliability, and feel that the ATAC XC 12 is designed to provide.