Peloton Toe Cage Removal: Tools, Step-by-Step Guide, and Safety Tips

How to remove toe cage peloton?

Removing the toe cage from your Peloton bike typically involves using an Allen wrench to detach the cage from the pedal body; if you intend to remove the entire pedal, a 15mm pedal wrench will be required, paying close attention to the unique threading of each pedal.

Understanding Peloton Pedals and Toe Cages

The standard Peloton Bike (original model) comes equipped with dual-sided pedals. One side features a Look Delta cleat system, designed for cycling shoes with corresponding cleats, optimizing power transfer and efficiency. The opposite side of this pedal typically includes a toe cage, also known as a toe strap or cage, which allows riders to use regular athletic shoes without specialized cycling footwear. This design provides versatility for different users or warm-up/cool-down phases. Newer Peloton Bike+ models often feature dual-sided SPD/Look Delta compatible pedals, where toe cages are generally an add-on accessory rather than integrated. Our focus here is primarily on the integrated toe cage found on the original Peloton Bike's pedals.

Why Remove Your Peloton Toe Cages?

There are several compelling reasons why a Peloton owner might choose to remove the toe cages:

• Upgrading to Clipless Pedals: The most common reason is to replace the entire pedal unit with a different clipless system (e.g., SPD pedals for mountain bike shoes, or retaining Look Delta but preferring a different brand's pedal). Clipless systems offer superior power transfer, stability, and muscle engagement by ensuring your feet are securely connected to the pedals throughout the entire pedal stroke.
• Maintenance or Replacement: The toe cage itself might become damaged, worn, or broken, necessitating its removal for replacement.
• Aesthetics and Customization: Some riders prefer the cleaner look of a dedicated clipless pedal setup without the toe cage.
• Shipping or Storage: For compact storage or transport, detaching components can make the bike more manageable.

Essential Tools for Removal

Before you begin, ensure you have the correct tools at hand to prevent damage to your bike or injury to yourself.

• Allen Wrench (Hex Key): Most toe cages are attached to the pedal body with small Allen bolts. You'll typically need a 4mm or 5mm Allen wrench. Check your specific pedal/cage for the correct size.
• 15mm Pedal Wrench (Optional, for full pedal removal): If your goal is to remove the entire pedal (to replace it with a new one), a dedicated 15mm pedal wrench is highly recommended. Its thin profile and long handle provide the necessary leverage and clearance. A standard 15mm open-end wrench can work in a pinch, but may be less effective.
• Clean Rag or Cloth: To wipe away grease and provide a better grip.
• Lubricant/Penetrating Oil (Optional): For stubborn or seized bolts/pedals.

Step-by-Step Guide to Removing Peloton Toe Cages

This guide covers both removing just the cage and then, optionally, the entire pedal.

1. Prepare Your Bike:

   • Position your Peloton bike on a stable surface.
   • Rotate the crank arm with the toe cage you wish to remove so that the pedal is easily accessible and the crank arm is roughly parallel to the ground or slightly forward.
   • If you plan to remove the entire pedal, ensure the crank arm is positioned to give you maximum leverage (e.g., pointing towards the rear of the bike for loosening).

2. Identify Toe Cage Attachment Points:

   • Examine the toe cage where it connects to the pedal body. You will typically find two to four small Allen bolts securing the cage to the pedal.

3. Loosen and Remove Toe Cage Bolts:

   • Insert the correct size Allen wrench into each bolt.
   • Turn the wrench counter-clockwise to loosen the bolts. These bolts have standard threading ("lefty loosey, righty tighty").
   • Once all bolts are sufficiently loose, remove them completely and carefully detach the toe cage from the pedal. Keep the bolts in a safe place if you plan to reattach the cage later.

4. Optional: Removing the Entire Pedal (If replacing the pedal unit):

   • Crucial Note on Pedal Threading: This is vital to avoid stripping threads.
     • Right Pedal (Drive Side - Chainring Side): Has standard threading. To loosen, turn the pedal wrench counter-clockwise.
     • Left Pedal (Non-Drive Side): Has reverse threading. To loosen, turn the pedal wrench clockwise.
   • Position your 15mm pedal wrench onto the flats of the pedal spindle (the part that screws into the crank arm).
   • Apply firm, steady pressure in the correct loosening direction. It may require significant force, especially if the pedals have been on for a long time. If stubborn, a quick, sharp turn is often more effective than slow, sustained pressure.
   • Once the pedal breaks loose, continue turning by hand until it unthreads completely from the crank arm.

Post-Removal Considerations and Next Steps

• Clean Threads: If you're installing new pedals, clean the threads on the crank arm thoroughly with a rag to remove any old grease or debris.
• Grease New Pedal Threads: Always apply a thin layer of bicycle-specific grease to the threads of your new pedals before installation. This prevents seizing, makes future removal easier, and helps reduce creaking.
• Install New Pedals: Thread the new pedals into the crank arms by hand first to ensure proper alignment. Remember the threading direction: right pedal (standard, clockwise to tighten), left pedal (reverse, counter-clockwise to tighten). Once hand-tight, use your 15mm pedal wrench to tighten them securely. Refer to the pedal manufacturer's torque specifications if available, but generally, they should be quite tight.
• Store Old Components: Keep your removed toe cages and/or old pedals in a safe place. They may be useful for resale, future use, or if you ever decide to revert to the original setup.

Safety Precautions During Pedal Maintenance

• Bike Stability: Ensure your Peloton bike is stable and won't tip over during the process.
• Hand Protection: Consider wearing gloves to protect your hands from grease and potential scrapes.
• Correct Tool Usage: Always use the correct size and type of wrench. Using an ill-fitting tool can strip bolts or round off pedal flats, making removal extremely difficult.
• Thread Direction: Reiterate the importance of remembering the reverse threading on the left pedal. Forcing a pedal in the wrong direction will strip the crank arm threads, a costly repair.
• Apply Force Safely: When loosening stubborn pedals, avoid putting yourself in a position where your hand could slip and strike the frame or a sharp component.

When to Seek Professional Help

While removing toe cages and pedals is a straightforward process for most, there are instances where professional assistance is advisable:

• Stripped Bolts or Pedals: If you've rounded off the hex head of a toe cage bolt or the flats on the pedal spindle, specialized tools or techniques may be required for removal.
• Seized Pedals: If a pedal is completely stuck despite significant force and lubricant, forcing it further could damage the crank arm.
• Uncertainty or Lack of Tools: If you're uncomfortable with the process or lack the proper tools, a professional bike mechanic can perform the task safely and efficiently.