Can You Use BMX Pedals On a Mountain Bike? (Answered!)

Because the BMX and mountain bikes are two-wheeled off-road beasts, It’s easy to imagine wanting to switch their accessories. One of those accessories could be the pedal. This leads us to the subject – can you use BMX pedals with a mountain bicycle?
Yes, you can put BMX pedals on a mountain bike if the threads of the cranks and pedals are compatible with 9/16-inch TPI (Threads per inch). You can swap the axles or adapters for children’s and low-end bikes with 1/2-inch threads in the cranks and pedals.
So, what brand and type of pedal will you pick to complete the switch? What can you do to maintain the pedals you currently use for longevity?
Check out our answers to all your questions and more.
To begin, we’ll examine the reasons to use BMX pedals with the mountain bike.
Can You Use BMX Pedals On A Mountain Bike? The Reasons
The axle on the pedals permits connecting to cranks. For modern BMX and mountain bikes, the crank threads are 9/16 inches 20 TPI (Threads per inch)
So, BMX bike pedals can be mounted on a mountain bike and any other bike, provided that the threads on the crank and pedal match.
But, the lower-end and kids’ bicycles have an axle of 1/2 inch rather than the standard 9/16 inches. It is necessary to swap the axle and then use an 8/16 inch or an adapter for this case.
The reason BMX Pedals Are a Good Option for Mountain Bikes.
If you’ve learned it’s possible to utilize BMX bike pedals for mountain biking, here are some advantages of this option:
1. BMX Pedals Are Cost-Effective
The majority of BMX pedals are constructed from thermoplastics that are engineered, specifically Nylon. They use thermoplastics since they are less difficult to manufacture and are less expensive than die-cast aluminum or steel pedals. There’s a chance to purchase a new plastic pedal for as low as USD10.
Thermoplastics have greater strength and resistance to impacts, heat, and chemicals than other polycarbonates and plastics. The thermoplastics are coated with fiberglass and chemicals to provide stiffness and strength.
The idea of putting BMX pedals on a mountain bike is affordable because you don’t have to be concerned about buying specialized shoes. All kinds of shoes are acceptable – sneakers or work shoes. This flexibility is possible by the broad platform provided through BMX pedals.
It is important to note that even though the most expensive BMX bike pedals made of die-cast or alloy are priced at an initial cost, they will be a great way to save dollars in the long run.
They’ll need replacing more frequently than their plastic counterparts. Also, on a positive note, cyclists who do not wear shinguards could avoid a trip to the ER in the event of being struck by a pedal made of plastic. Sure, a blow on the shin can be painful. However, it’s less painful when the material is plastic!
2. BMX Pedals are Designed to Last
Bicycling BMX is an extreme sport. It’s made possible through brutal riding styles and unbelievable techniques like spine transfer and tail whips, backflips droppings, backflips, and other tricks.
To add to the mix are the many times a bike is destroyed because of a mishap. So, it’s not an exaggeration to state that BMX bikes are continuously tested to their limits.
It is reassuring that BMX bikes’ designs allow them to withstand these grueling conditions. They can withstand the most extreme conditions is most evident in the pedals.
They’re built with strength and durable design due to the pressure they are subjected to. They have a shelf lifespan of between 20 weeks and 20 years.
The shelf can be stretched from time to the end when their riding style is “calm” and regularly maintains the pedals.
3. BMX pedals have solid Grip
To properly perform a trick to be successful, the power of the leg has to transfer efficiently to the pedals. The pedals should have an adequate grip to enable this.
BMX bike pedals are grippy primarily due to their wide and broad platforms. Knurled surface, complemented by pins, provides additional Grip.
4. BMX pedals are a chic upgrade
From urban pink to blues, like Tiffany to oil slick, everything in the middle, BMX pedals can be found in many colors. While mountain bike pedals come in distinct colors, changing them to BMX pedals could earn you an impressive “street image.”
If you’re into the same thing, you should consider replacing your mountain bike with BMX pedals as an excellent idea to test.
5. BMX Pedals Are Easier And Cheaper To Maintain
The pedals for bikes on BMX are simple to keep in good condition. They don’t have bearing seals that require regular cleaning and repair. Therefore, they are less expensive to maintain.
Some cyclists have pointed out that mountain bike pedals can easily get covered in dirt and mud. However, the BMX pedals let land or sand get on them.
4 BMX Pedals to Use on Mountain Bikes
The selection of pedals one picks is a matter of personal preference. It is based on one’s budget, personal preferences, or personal experience. Below is a list of the top four BMX pedals on the market that can be used on mountain bikes:
1. The Schwenk of 9/16′ Large Pedal to MTB/BMX (Aluminum Alloy)
This compact, durable and robust pedal is available in various colors and is suitable for Road, Mountain, bicycles, and BMX bikes. Its broad frame provides a sturdy surface to walk onto.
The frame’s frame is CNC-machined out of aluminum and magnesium alloy that is dense. This design allows the pedal to take on the shocks and force applied when riding.
The Schwenk pedal comes with steel pins that provide an extra grip.
2. Shimano Pd-Gr500 Pedal MTB/BMX (Chromoly Steel)
Nearly the majority of bicycle components sold are marked Shimano. The parts are precise, high quality, and feature excellent performance.
The Shimano Pdgr500, a premium metallic platform pedal, performs to this standard. Its massive, beefy body offers an area to rest your legs, and its replacement pins offer excellent Grip.
It also has an enclosed mechanism to ensure the inner protection of the component.
3. Fooker 9/16 MTB BMX 3-Bearing platform pedals (Nylon)
This pedal features a lightweight but durable Nylon-surfaced pedal equipped with anti-slip pins on both sides to give you that additional Grip. Fooker MTB pedals are made from Nylon. Fooker MTB pedals have an angled topside that provides an ample surface that can hold your foot.
This simple-to-install pedal features the regular 9/16 inch threads permitting installation on almost every bike type, such as BMX mountain bicycles, Cyclocross bikes, Road bikes, and hybrid bikes.
4. Fyxation Gates BMX Pedals (Hybrid)
The affordable Fyxation pedal is ideal for those who want to experience the platform world but can also integrate with foot-retention systems and straps.
Its Fyxation Gates pedal can easily take on abuse due to its impact-resistant Nylon and Chromoly Steel bodies. It offers a sturdy and wide surface to stand on because of its concave shape and wide platform design.
To give you that extra grasp, the exterior has been made of knurled material and is fitted with pins.
Take care of your BMX The Pedals – What Should You Do.
Here’s a brief overview of some tips you can do to take care of your pedals.
- Make sure to clean your pedals regularly and afterward. The accumulation of dirt and dust can cause premature wear. Cleaning is the cheapest method for bike and component maintenance.
- It is recommended to regularly grease or oil your pedals.
- Look for cracks on your pedals regularly, especially when your riding style is towards the “rough” side also, if you’re new to the sport and are frequently bailing on stunts. Spotting a crack before it gets too bad can be a great way to avoid injuries when the pedal is broken.
- Verify that the pedals are loose. Then tighten the pedals to ensure an appropriate fit.
- Get a new pedal, and after that. It can give your bike a new look. It also keeps the manufacturers of pedals in business while you’re at it!
People Also Need to Ask
Are BMX Pedals able to be put on a Road Bike?
It is indeed possible to install BMX pedals on the road bicycle. The pedals designed for adults in mind are equipped with the standard 9/16-inch thread for pedals. Road bikers who are serious suggest using bicycle-specific pedals.
How do I put Pedals on A BMX Bike?
Follow these steps to swap the pedals on your BMX bike or any bicycle.
- Flip the bike upside-down for accessibility.
- With an adjustable wrench (a 15mm wrench is suitable for most BMX bikes), turn the right pedal counterclockwise to loosen it. You can also use a 6mm Allen and a ratchet to release the pedal near the axle. The pedal can get stuck, and a wrench is recommended.
- If you’re riding a BMX bike, The left side of the bike has reversed threads. To change the pedals, you must turn the wrench counterclockwise to release it.
- Apply the grease to the new pedals before installing them.
- They are identified by CR -L (Left) and C-R (Right) to make it easier to determine which pedal’s side is on. Some manufacturers go as far as knurling on the pedal axle’s left side and smoothing the right side for easier distinguishing. Be careful not to mix the pedals and not ruin them. Then, snugly fix the pedals by using the wrench.
Can Any Pedals Go On Any Bike?
Any pedal can be used on any bike, provided the crank’s threads match the pedals’ threads. The thread size for adult bikes is 14.3cm or 9/16 inches TPI (Threads per inch)
Note that 1-piece cranks BMX bikes come with half inch threads on the pedal. The axles of these bikes are smaller and won’t fit on mountain bicycle cranks. These 1/2-inch versions are restricted to children’s bikes and low-end models.
Can you use a Bike with BMX to go Mountain Biking?
Yes, you can, but only if you’re an experienced cyclist. The general rule is that the BMX bike should be your final option for mountain biking, particularly for beginners and children. Because of a variety of reasons.
First of all, the seats on BMX bikes are not high enough. That means you have to stand while riding. Being in a standing position for long periods while riding a trail can cause exhaustion and put an enormous amount of stress on your body.
Second, BMX bikes are equipped with one-geared systems that don’t allow the shifting of gears when the terrain changes.
Also, BMX bikes only have brakes on the rear wheel that aren’t enough to withstand the jolts and shocks of mountain trails.
Can you ride a Mountain Bike on a BMX track?
You can take a mountain bike on the BMX track. Your bike handling will improve significantly when you ride on the BMX track. Additionally, you will have lots of fun. Beware of the following.
While mountain bikes are sturdy, they come with more components that could break compared to boneless BMX bikes.
In Conclusion – Can You Use BMX Pedals On A Mountain Bike?
As we’ve mentioned, it’s possible to put BMX pedals on mountain bikes as long the pedal and crank threads are compatible.
Therefore, whether you’re an experienced cyclist or are just beginning your journey, you can change your experience on the bike. This can be accomplished by switching out various components like pedals. Many fond memories and excitement await you following the accomplishment of your project!