How to Replace or Service the Bearings in Your XPRESSO 8 Pedals

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The XPRESSO 8[paid link] pedals from TIME are designed to offer high-performance and long-lasting durability for road cyclists. Over time, as with any pedal, the bearings inside the XPRESSO 8[paid link] can wear out or become less smooth, affecting your ride quality. Replacing or servicing the bearings ensures your pedals continue to perform optimally. This guide walks you through the process of servicing or replacing the bearings in your XPRESSO 8 pedals, ensuring peak performance and longevity.

Tools Required

  • 8mm Allen wrench[paid link]
  • Bearing puller or small press tool
  • 10mm socket wrench
  • Grease
  • Flathead screwdriver or plastic prying tool
  • Replacement bearings (specific to XPRESSO 8)
  • Pedal cleaner (optional)

Understanding the Bearing System in XPRESSO 8 Pedals

The XPRESSO 8 pedals are equipped with high-quality sealed bearings designed to provide smooth performance while being resistant to dirt and water. The pedals use a combination of needle bearings and cartridge bearings, which ensures durability while maintaining low friction. Over time, these bearings may lose their smoothness or develop play, which can cause rough pedaling or unwanted movement in the pedal.

How to Replace the Bearings in XPRESSO 8 Pedals

Step 1: Remove the Pedal from the Crankset

Using your 8mm Allen wrench[paid link], remove the pedals from the crankset. Be sure to undo the left pedal in a clockwise direction (reverse-threaded) and the right pedal in a counterclockwise direction.

Step 2: Disassemble the Pedal

With the pedal off the bike, begin disassembling the pedal body. Remove any outer covers using a flathead screwdriver or prying tool if necessary. Carefully expose the spindle of the pedal.

Step 3: Remove the Old Bearings

To access the bearings, you will need to remove the spindle from the pedal body. Depending on your tool set, use a bearing puller or a small press tool to extract the bearings. Gently remove any old, worn bearings from both sides of the pedal body.

Step 4: Clean and Inspect

Before installing the new bearings, clean the pedal body and spindle using a pedal cleaner or a degreaser. Ensure that all old grease, dirt, and debris are removed from the parts. Check for any signs of wear on the pedal body or spindle that might require replacement or further servicing.

Step 5: Install the New Bearings

Apply a thin layer of high-quality grease to the bearing seats. Carefully install the new bearings into place, ensuring they are seated correctly. Be sure the bearings are pressed in securely and rotate freely without any binding.

Step 6: Reassemble the Pedal

Once the new bearings are installed, carefully reassemble the pedal body. Ensure that all parts, including the pedal body covers and seals, are replaced in the correct orientation and secured tightly.

Step 7: Test the Pedal

After reassembling the pedal, manually rotate the spindle to ensure that the bearings move smoothly without resistance. If the pedal feels smooth and free from any play, it is ready for reinstallation.

Step 8: Reinstall the Pedals on the Crankset

Apply a thin layer of grease to the pedal threads before reattaching the pedals to the crankset. Install the right pedal on the right side and the left pedal on the left side. Tighten the pedals securely using the 8mm Allen wrench.

Servicing the Bearings: When to Do It

Regular maintenance of the bearings in your XPRESSO 8 pedals can help extend their lifespan and maintain optimal performance. Typically, you should consider servicing the bearings when you notice:

  • Excessive play or wobbling in the pedal
  • Rough or inconsistent pedal rotation
  • Increased resistance or stiffness while pedaling
  • Noises such as grinding or squeaking during use

By performing regular maintenance and replacing the bearings when necessary, you can keep your XPRESSO 8 pedals running smoothly for years.

Conclusion

Replacing or servicing the bearings in your XPRESSO 8 pedals is a manageable task that can dramatically improve pedal performance. Regular maintenance will ensure your pedals continue to provide the comfort and efficiency you expect from a high-end road bike pedal. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll maintain smooth, reliable pedal action, giving you a better cycling experience.