There are numerous options to consider if you are looking to change your MTB pedals. But can you use BMX pedals on a mountain bike? This guide has the answers.
Are BMX pedals compatible with a mountain bike? Can you replace your mountain bike pedals with BMX pedals?
You can use BMX pedals on a mountain bike. However, this is dependent on your mountain bike having matching 9/16-inch threads on the cranks and pedals. In case the cranks and pedals on your mountain bike don’t have matching 9/16-inch threads, you will be have to do some improvisation.
In this post, we will explore the possibility of using BMX pedals on a mountain bike. We will also discuss some benefits of replacing mountain bikes with BMX pedals. So, if you are planning to replace your mountain bike pedals with BMX pedals but you are unsure whether it’s possible or it’s the right move, then you’ve come to the right place.
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Overview
BMX and mountain bikes both fall under the same category – they are both off-roading bikes. And, most bikers tend to swap their parts, accessories and components. One of the parts you may want to swap is the pedal.
For instance, you may want use BMX pedals on a mountain bike, since you prefer platform pedals. Or, you may simply prefer the beefier design of BMX pedals and you may want to transfer it to your mountain bike. And you may be probably asking yourself whether you can use BMX pedals on a mountain bike.
Differences between BMX Pedals and Mountain Bike Pedals
From a mechanical perspective, mountain bike and BMX pedals are almost identical. Their main differences are in the materials used and the design. Here are some of the differences between these two pedals.
First, BMX pedals tend to be beefier and larger, compared to mountain bike pedals. Also, they are made of stronger plastic than their mountain bike counterparts, meaning they are also more durable. The benefit of using plastic is that it helps to keep their prices affordable while minimizing damage to skate part equipment if the biker falls.
Second, BMX pedals come with fewer pins than their mountain bike counterparts. Also, their pins are made of plastic while those of mountain bikes are made of replaceable metal.
While replaceable metal pins will be more durable than plastic pins, they can cause a serious injury if you hit the shin against them. Besides, the metallic pin will also wear out the shoe faster than plastic pins.
Can You Use BMX Pedals on a Mountain Bike
As discussed above, BMX pedals and mountain bike pedals have some differences. So, can you use BMX pedals on a mountain bike? Yes, it’s possible to use BMX pedals on a mountain bike. But, this is dependent on the cranks and the threads in the pedal having a matching 9/16-inch thread.
In case the threads are not matching, you will have to make some adjustments or modifications such as using an adapter or replacing their axles before you make the swap. And if you have the right tools and supplies for the job, then making these adjustments and modifications shouldn’t be a challenge.
Benefits of Using BMX Pedals on a Mountain Bike
Using BMX pedals on a mountain bike is possible. And, doing this swap comes with numerous benefits. Here are some of the reasons why BMX pedals will be a great choice for your mountain bike.
Cost Effectiveness
One of the main benefits of using BMX pedals on a mountain bike is that they are highly cost-effective. Unlike mountain bike pedals, BMX pedals are made from engineered thermoplastics, mainly nylon. The main reason why manufacturers use thermoplastics is that they are much easier to machine, compared to aluminum, die-cast or other alternatives.
Furthermore, thermoplastics are cheaper compared to most of the other materials used to make pedals. And as you may expect, these cost-savings will eventually be passed down to the consumer. For instance, you can get a set of reliable BMX pedals for as low as $10.
Besides being more affordable than aluminum or alloys, thermoplastics also tend to offer better resistance against heat, impact as well as chemicals, compared to the conventional plastics used to make mountain bike pedals.
So, when you replace the pedals on your mountain bike with BMX pedals, they won’t need a replacement any time soon. Consequently, your bike’s maintenance costs will be lower compared to plastic pedals on most mountain bikes, which need to be replaced severally.
Also, you don’t need to buy a specialized shoe to ride your bike. You can ride with BMX pedals using almost any type of shoe. Whether you are wearing your office brogues or sneakers, you can comfortably pedal with them on BMX pedals. Again, they will save you money.
Better Grip
Most mountain bikes love performing various tricks. And to perform such tricks properly, you will need to transfer power from the legs to the pedals efficiently. To this end, the pedals on your bike need to provide adequate and reliable grip to ensure efficient transfer of this power. And this is where BMX pedals come in.
BMX pedals provide better grip than mountain bike pedals. And, this can be attributed to their broad and large platforms. This grip is further enhanced by the presence of a rougher surface and pins.
So, if you love performing tricks with your mountain bike, then you will love using BMX pedals. You will find yourself executing the various tricks more efficiently and cleanly, compared to when you were doing it with the conventional mountain bike pedals.
Cheaper and Easier to Maintain
Another reason why you should consider swapping in BMX pedals to your mountain bike is that they are cheaper and easier to maintain. Unlike some of the other pedals out there, BMX pedals don’t feature bearing seals, which require constant maintenance and frequent replacement. Hence, they will be more affordable to maintain.
Furthermore, mountain bike pedals tend to collect dirt, mud and grime at a faster rate, compared to BMX pedals. Also, BMX pedals have a simpler design, compared to mountain bike pedals. So, removing dirt, mud and grime will be much easier and faster. Simply put, you will have an easier time taking care of BMX pedals as opposed to mountain bike pedals.
Looking after BMX Pedals
Once you’ve replaced mountain bike pedals with BMX pedals, you will need to take good care of your BMX pedals to boost their longevity. Here are some tips on how to look after your BMX pedals.
First, ensure you wash them frequently. Mud, grime, dust, sand and grit build-up can cause premature wear and tear. So, you need to be cleaning your BMX pedals frequently, to prevent this issue.
Second, oil and grease your pedals according to manufacturer’s instructions. If the pedals are not properly greased and oiled, there will be excessive friction between the various moving components, which can cause premature damage.
Third, tighten the pedals whenever they are loose. This will ensure that the entire pedal system is operating properly.
In Summary
Without a doubt, you can put BMX pedals on a mountain bike. So, whether you are starting out your mountain bike journey or you are a seasoned rider, you can easily vary your riding experience. And, you can accomplish this by doing something as simple as installing BMX pedals on your mountain bike.
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