The TIME MX 6 [paid link] pedals are known for their exceptional balance of durability, lightweight construction, and precision engagement. Designed for both cross-country and trail use, they feature TIME’s signature ATAC (Auto Tension Adjustment Concept) system, which provides reliable entry and release under all conditions. To preserve their performance over the years, a structured maintenance plan is essential. This guide details installation checks, routine cleaning, bearing service, and long-term care practices to ensure your MX 6 [paid link] pedals remain smooth, secure, and efficient.
Understanding the TIME MX 6 Pedal Design
The MX 6 pedals use a composite body with a hollow steel axle and ATAC mechanism. This system allows easy engagement even in muddy conditions, while the self-cleaning design prevents debris build-up. The retention bars adjust automatically for consistent tension without manual fine-tuning. However, regular maintenance is critical to preserve the mechanism’s precision and prevent bearing wear over time.
The pedal’s core assembly includes:
- A hollow steel axle.
- Dual cartridge bearings and a needle bearing.
- A retention bar assembly with a spring mechanism.
- A composite pedal body for reduced weight.
By understanding how these elements work together, you can identify potential wear points and maintain performance consistency over the long term.
Tools Required
- 8 mm Allen wrench [paid link]
- 17 mm cone wrench [paid link]
- Torque wrench [paid link]
- Small flat screwdriver
- Waterproof lithium grease
- Degreaser and cleaning cloths
- Bearing puller (optional for full service)
Routine Cleaning and Inspection
Routine cleaning should be part of your monthly maintenance, especially if you ride in wet or muddy conditions. The MX 6’s self-cleaning feature helps, but debris can still accumulate around the retention mechanism and bearing seals.
- Remove Surface Dirt – Use a mild degreaser and soft brush to clean the pedal body, ensuring the retention bar and spring mechanism are free from mud and grit.
- Inspect the Retention Bars – Check for rust or corrosion on the steel bars. If they appear discolored or rough, lightly polish them with a dry cloth and reapply a thin layer of grease.
- Check Spring Tension – Although TIME’s ATAC system auto-adjusts tension, inspect the springs for any deformation or reduced resistance. Springs showing visible wear should be replaced immediately.
- Verify Bearing Smoothness – Spin each pedal by hand. A rough or grinding feel indicates worn bearings that need servicing.
Performing this simple inspection after every 10–15 hours of riding extends pedal life significantly.
Bearing Service and Lubrication
The bearings in the MX 6 pedals are factory-sealed, but over time they can lose lubrication or accumulate contaminants. Servicing them annually—or every 2000 km—is recommended for riders in wet environments.
To service the bearings:
- Remove the Pedals – Use an 8 mm Allen key to unscrew the pedals from the crank arms. Remember that the left pedal has a reverse (left-hand) thread.
- Disassemble the Axle – With a 17 mm cone wrench [paid link], carefully loosen the locknut and washer. Pull the axle straight out from the pedal body.
- Inspect Bearings – Clean all parts thoroughly using degreaser. Examine the cartridge and needle bearings for pitting or play. Replace if worn.
- Re-grease and Reassemble – Apply waterproof grease to the bearing surfaces and reinstall the axle. Tighten the locknut securely but do not overtighten; the pedal should spin freely without side play.
This procedure prevents premature wear, protects against corrosion, and ensures consistent engagement feel.
Lubricating the ATAC Mechanism
The ATAC system’s retention bars and springs operate best with a light layer of lubrication. Use a minimal amount of waterproof grease or a dry-film lubricant to coat the contact areas where cleats engage. Excess grease should be wiped away to prevent attracting dirt.
Apply lubrication every two months or after particularly wet rides. Keeping this mechanism lubricated maintains smooth entry and release while reducing stress on the spring assembly.
Tightening and Torque Settings
Proper torque is crucial for safety and performance. Install the MX 6 pedals with an 8 mm Allen key, tightening them to 35–40 Nm. Over-tightening can damage crank threads, while under-tightening risks pedal loosening during rides.
Inspect pedal tightness every few rides, particularly after bike transport or crank maintenance. Any movement between the pedal and crank arm can accelerate wear on both components.
Replacing Worn Components
TIME MX 6 pedals are serviceable, allowing riders to replace bearings, axles, or springs without purchasing new pedals. Replacement kits are available for the ATAC retention bar assembly and bearing systems.
Signs that replacement is needed include:
- Excessive play in the pedal body.
- Noticeable clunking or side-to-side movement.
- Difficulty clipping in or inconsistent release tension.
Regular maintenance extends component life, but replacement at proper intervals preserves optimal engagement and overall safety.
Storage and Long-Term Care
For off-season storage, remove the pedals, clean them thoroughly, and apply a light layer of grease on the threads and axle ends. Store in a dry, temperature-stable environment to prevent condensation inside the bearing cavity. Avoid pressure washing, as high-pressure water can breach bearing seals and force moisture into the pedal body.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with regular care, issues can arise:
- Clicking or creaking noises often indicate insufficient grease on the axle threads or loose locknuts.
- Stiff engagement suggests dirt buildup in the retention bar pivot area—clean and lubricate as needed.
- Loose feel typically results from worn bearings or spring fatigue. Inspect and replace components if play persists after reassembly.
Addressing these minor problems early prevents costly repairs later.
Optimizing Performance for Longevity
Maintaining proper cleat condition is equally vital for pedal longevity. Worn or damaged cleats accelerate wear on the retention bars and can affect release precision. Inspect cleats monthly, and replace them when the engagement edges appear rounded or uneven.
For enhanced performance:
- Avoid dry operation; always keep the retention system lightly lubricated.
- Clean pedals after every muddy ride.
- Rotate pedals periodically during full bike maintenance to detect issues early.
Conclusion
A structured maintenance plan ensures that your TIME MX 6 pedals continue to deliver smooth engagement, reliable release, and long-lasting durability. Regular inspection, cleaning, and bearing service prevent common wear issues and preserve the precise function of the ATAC system. By dedicating a small amount of time to maintenance after each ride and performing full servicing annually, you can keep your MX 6 pedals running perfectly for years of performance-focused cycling.