Are Bike Pedal Extenders Safe?
If you’re a cyclist, you know that having the right accessories can make all the difference in your ride. One popular accessory that some cyclists use is bike pedal extenders. But are bike pedal extenders safe?
This is a question that many cyclists may be asking themselves, especially if they are considering using them for the first time. Bicycle pedal extenders can provide a number of benefits to riders, including increased comfort and power. However, riders should be aware of some safety concerns associated with the use.
In this post, I’ll discuss the pros and cons of pedal extenders and look at some tips for staying safe when riding with them.
What Are The Benefits of Using Bike Pedal Extenders?
Bike pedal extenders offer several benefits for riders. They are a great way to increase your pedaling power and efficiency, especially if you’re taller than average. Also, allow you to maintain a comfortable and natural position while providing more leverage to help you pedal faster and harder.
Here are some of the key benefits of using bike pedal extenders:
Increased Pedaling Power
If you’re looking to increase your pedaling power, bike pedal extenders can help. By attaching them, you’ll be able to increase your leverage, which will help you pedal with more force. This is especially beneficial if you’re taller than average, as you’ll have a longer lever to work with.
Improved Pedaling Efficiency
Bike pedal extenders can also help you pedal more efficiently. By attaching them, you’ll be able to keep your legs in a more natural position. This will reduce the energy you need to expend to pedal and can help you ride for longer periods.
Maintained Leg Alignment
Another benefit of using bike pedal extenders is that they help you maintain proper leg alignment. This is important for preventing injuries and ensuring that you’re pedaling as efficiently as possible.
By keeping your legs in a straight line, you’ll be able to pedal with more power and avoid any unnecessary strain on your muscles.
Enhanced Safety
When riding a bicycle, having extra space for your feet could help you stay safer. Keeping your legs in a more natural position will be less likely to get tangled in the pedals. This can help you avoid a fall and can also help you keep control of your bike if you need to make a quick stop.
Easy on Your Back
Some people claim that using bike pedal extenders will help them avoid knee and lower back pain. By keeping the pedals at a consistent level, riders can avoid putting unnecessary strain on their knees. In addition, pedal extenders can help to take some of the strain off the lower back by keeping the rider in a more upright position.
Are There Any Risks Associated with Using Bike Pedal Extenders?
If you are considering using bike pedal extenders, you should be aware of a few disadvantages and risks.
Can Come off Easily
One of the dangers of using bike pedal extenders is that they can cause the pedals to come off while you are riding. If they are not properly installed, it can cause the pedals to become loose and come off while riding.
This can be extremely dangerous and can lead to serious injuries. If this happens, you could lose control of your bike and crash.
Reduce Pedaling Motion
If the extenders are not the correct size or placed incorrectly, they may cause certain problems. They can interfere with the rider’s pedaling motion and cause discomfort or pain. They also can reduce the efficiency of your pedaling stroke and often increase the risk of your foot slipping off the pedal.
Interferes with Pedals
Extenders can make it difficult to clip into your pedals if you have toe clips or clip-less pedals.
This can change the pedals’ position, making it more difficult to keep your feet in the proper position.
Extra Length And Weight
Another risk is that the extra length of the pedal extenders can make it more difficult to control your bike, and you could end up hitting something or someone. They also add some weight to the cycle, making it more difficult to ride.
How Do You Install Bike Pedal Extenders on Your Bike?
Installing bike pedal extenders is a relatively easy process that can be completed in just a few minutes. The first step is to arrange some necessary tools. You’ll need a wrench, Allen key, and two pedal extenders.
Step 1: Remove Pedals
Remove the existing pedals from your bike. Then, use the Allen key and wrench to loosen the bolts that hold them in place.
Step 2: Measure The Crank
Now, you will need to measure the distance from the center of the crank to the outside edge of the pedal. This measurement will determine the size of the pedal extender you need to install.
Step 3: Cut A Pipe
After you have measured the distance, you will need to cut two pieces of metal pipe, each half an inch longer than the measurement. It will protect the extender from dirt.
Step 4: Thread the Pipe
Next, you will need to thread the other end of each piece of pipe onto the crank arm and tighten it in place.
Step 5: Put the Extenders in the Right Place
Next, take one of the extenders and thread it onto the end of the pedal. Put some grease on the threads of the new pedals.
Step 6: Tighten The Screws
Use the Allen key or wrench to tighten the set screws on the pedal extenders. You will need to attach one end of each piece of pipe to the pedal extender with a bolt and nut.
Step 7: Repeat The Process
Repeat this process for the other pedal.
Step 8: Test Ride
Once the new pedals are in place, you can reattach your bike’s chain and ride away!
How Can I Find The Right Bike Pedal Extenders for My Bike?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the right bike pedal extenders for your bike will depend on several factors, including the model of your bike, riding style, and personal preferences.
Decide what type of bike pedal extenders you need. There are two main types of bike pedal extenders: those that screw into your bike pedals and those that clamp onto your bike. However, you should keep a few things in mind that will help you choose the right extenders.
Compatibility
First and foremost, you need to make sure that the extenders you choose are compatible with your bike. There are many different types and sizes of bikes, so it’s important to find pedal extenders that will fit yours properly.
Measure Your Bike Pedals
You will need to know the diameter of your bike pedals. Choose the right pedal extenders that are the same diameter as your bike pedals. You’ll have to make sure the extenders you choose are compatible with the width of your pedals.
Distance Between Bike’s Seat and Pedals
The new extenders you choose must be long enough to provide the desired distance between your seat and pedals.
Your Riding Style
You’ll need to determine what type of riding you want to perform and then ensure the extenders you choose are appropriate for your preferences. For example, if you like to ride with your feet close to the ground, you’ll need to choose shorter extenders.
Also, decide how much extra height you need. If you’re only looking to add a few inches, then shorter pedal extenders may be all you need. If you’re looking to add a significant amount of height, then longer pedal extenders will be necessary.
If you’re an aggressive rider who likes to go fast and put in long miles, you’ll likely need different pedal extenders than someone who only rides occasionally and isn’t as concerned about speed or distance.
Consider Your Personal Preferences.
There are various bike pedal extenders on the market, so take some time to browse your options and choose the ones that you think will work best for you. With a little bit of research, you should be able to find the perfect bike pedal extenders for your needs.
How Can I Make Sure My Bike Pedal Extenders Are Installed Correctly?
When installing new pedal extenders, it is important to make sure that they are installed correctly. Here are some tips to help ensure a proper installation:
Correct Size
Before you start installing your pedal extenders, it is important to make sure that they are the correct size for your pedals. If they are too big or too small, they will not work correctly and could cause damage to your pedals.
This can be checked by measuring the distance from the center of the pedal to the end of the crank arm. The pedal extender should be slightly longer than this measurement.
Apply Grease
Grease the threads with a light layer of bicycle grease. This will help to prevent the extenders from coming loose over time.
If you don’t have any bicycle grease, you can use lithium grease. But be careful not to use too much, because excessive lithium grease will attract grime and dirt.
Avoid Over Tightening
When screwing in the pedal extenders, do not over-tighten them. Just snug them up until they are tighter but not too tight. Once the pedal extenders are installed, test them out by pedaling the bike to ensure they are secure. If they feel loose, tighten them up a bit more until they are snug.
Tips for Using Bike Pedal Extenders Safely
It is important to follow some safety tips when using bike pedal extenders in order to enjoy a safe ride. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
Take Advice from Professionals
Always consult with your local bike shop or a professional mechanic before installing pedal extenders. This will ensure that they are installed correctly and will not cause any damage to your bicycle.
Check the Bike Before Installing
Read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully before using bike pedal extenders. Ensure the bike is in good working condition before attaching them.
Ride Carefully
Be extra careful when riding with pedal extenders. They can make it difficult to balance on the bike at the beginning and cause the pedals to become caught on clothing or other objects. Use caution when riding over rough terrain or in traffic.
Pedal extenders can make it more difficult to control the bike, so be extra careful in these situations. Start off slowly when you’re first using extenders. Get used to the feel of pedaling with it before you go too fast.
Remove When Not Using
Remove the pedal extenders before storing your bike. This will prevent them from coming loose and causing damage to your bicycle while it is not in use.
Inspect Regularly
Inspect your bike before each ride, including the pedals and extenders. Make sure that everything is tight and secure.
Conclusion
Bike pedal extenders offer a variety of benefits to cyclists, including improved comfort and performance. However, it is important to use bike pedal extenders safely to avoid potential risks. They are also an affordable way to customize your bike and make it more comfortable for you to ride.
There are minimal risks associated with their use that should be considered before installing them on your bike. But these can be minimized by following the installation instructions carefully and taking care when riding.
By following the proper setup directions and using them safely, you can enjoy the benefits of bike pedal extenders while minimizing any potential risks.
This video might help you to install the pedal extender