The market has a variety of BMX pedals, making it difficult to choose the right one. While pedal material, price and brand are important, nothing is more important than getting the right pedal size. So, what size are BMX pedals?
Ideally, BMX pedals come with a 1/2-inch wide spindle thread diameter, also known as the thread size, often expressed as 1/2 x 20 TPI. However, modern adult BMX bikes are compatible with 9/16-inch pedals, often considered standard-sized pedals.
By looking at the crank you can tell if your old BMX pedals are 1/2 inch or 9/16 inch size. If it’s a one-piece crank, the pedal axle thread diameter is 1/2 inch. But if it’s 2-piece or 3-piece, then it’s 9/16-in.
Don’t worry, because I will explain in detail how to do this. I’ll even share other ways to size your BMX pedals and a quick buying guide to the best BMX pedals.
But first, let’s differentiate between 1/2-inch and 9/16-inch BMX pedals.
What size are BMX pedals? 1/2-inch vs. 9/16-inch
As suggested, we have two main types of pedals, 1/2-inch and 9/16-inch. The two are categorized according to spindle thickness or diameter, but they have the same tire grade 20 TPI carcass.
Let’s see what to expect from each;
1/2 Pedals BMX
The 1/2-inch pedal is widespread on BMX bikes, kids’ bikes, and some vintage cruisers. Unfortunately, their pedals aren’t as common as the 9/16 inch options, meaning it can be difficult to find their exact replacement.
Ideally, 1/2 inch pedals are compatible with a one piece crank, meaning you can know if you have 1/2 inch pedals if the BMX crank is one piece. 1/2 inch pedals also assume the dimensions 0.50″ x 20 TPI.
9/16 BMX Pedals
9/16 inch pedals have thicker spindles and are compatible with 2 piece or 3 piece crank. So if your bike has a 2-piece or 3-piece crank, you’ll need 9/16-inch pedals.
Fortunately, these pedals are common in the market because they have the modern style. They are compatible with modern BMX bikes and with any other adult bike.
The SE Bear Trap BMX Pedals and 25 NINE Ronin Platform BMX Pedals (View on Amazon) are good recommendations.
They are both compatible with 3-piece BMX cranks. The only difference is that the SE Bear Trap BMX pedals come in an aluminum alloy, so more durable than 25 NINE Ronin BMX pedals, which have a polypropylene housing.
25NINE Ronin BMX pedals are lighter, so suitable for racing on BMX bikes. 9/16 pedals also assume the dimensions 0.56 x 20TPI.
The Forgotten Bicycle Pedal Size – The 0.55 “Old French Pedal”
In addition to the 1/2″ x 20 TPI and 9/16 x 20 TPI pedals, we have the 0.55″ x 20.32 TPI pedals. These pedals are an old French style that is no longer made. You may find them on old French bicycles.
Overview
With the above information in mind, here’s how the three pedals compare:
| BMX Pedal Size | Crank Type: | Bicycle |
| 1/2” x 20 TPI (12.7mm x 1.27mm) | One piece crank | BMX, kids and old beach cruisers |
| 9/16” x 20 TPI (14.28mm x 1.27mm) | Three piece crank | Modern bikes |
| 0.55″ x 20.32 TPI (14mm x 125mm) | Old French bikes |
How do I know what size BMX pedal I need? A quick guide!
Because there are different types of pedals, it is essential to know which size to go for. Here are the tips for applying:
a) Identify the crank type:
Remember, a one-piece crank is compatible with a 1/2-inch BMX pedal, while a two-piece or three-piece pedal is compatible with a 9/16-inch pedal.
In that case, you need to determine the crank type on your bike. If the pendulum is in one piece, it is a one piece pendulum, but if it is in two or three different parts, it is a two piece or three piece.
b) Measure the pedal wire width:
If you don’t mind doing some work, consider measuring the thickness of the pedal wire. This way you know what size pedal you should take.
If the pedal threads are 1/2 inch (0.50 inch) wide, you should get BMX pedals 1/2. But if the width is 0.56 inches, you have a three piece crank, which means you should get 9/16 inch pedals for the bike.
Remember to use a wire and ruler to measure the pedal wire width.
c) Ask the manufacturer:
There is no better person to inquire about pedal size than the manufacturer. You can contact the bicycle or pedal manufacturer to inquire about the size and best replacement. They will make the best recommendation to serve you longer and more efficiently.
d) Talk to a local bike mechanic
Local bicycle mechanics are usually familiar with the various bicycle pedals. So you can go there with your bike to inquire about the size.
Chances are you will find the matching replacement pedals in their repair shops. But generally it’s up to you to decide who you buy from.
Other Considerations When Buying BMX Pedals
While the correct size of the BMX pedal is paramount, it is not the only consideration when buying BMX pedals. You should also consider the following:
(a) Pedal type
Usually BMX pedals come in two types: flat/platform and clip. In general, platform pedals are the most popular choice because they provide a wider surface for the feet to rest on and are generally sturdier.
Their only problem is that they don’t allow you to concentrate the foot pressure in a way that promotes acceleration. So they are not the best for racing BMX bikes but are more suitable for performing stunts.
If you want to accelerate more and perform fewer stunts, the pedals you go for are clip options. Clip pedals are generally the easiest to install and more beginner-friendly. However, they are less sturdy than the platform.
(b) Material type:
Most BMX pedals are available in plastic, aluminum, steel and nylon. Nylon is more weather resistant and more colorful, while plastic offers the cheapest options.
On the other hand, aluminum alloy pedals are stiffer and lighter (though not as plastic), while steel pedals are the most durable.
So you have to decide what is most important to you. But if you can’t compromise, go for aluminum, and one pedal that won’t disappoint is the SE Bear Trap BMCX Pedal (View on Amazon).
This pedal pair comes in an aluminum body construction, so it’s solid and lightweight. It is also available in multiple colors and is compatible with 3-piece crank BMX bikes. The best part is that the budget is under $50 which makes it more affordable.
(c) Pedal Grip
While not all BMX pedals are textured, it’s always a good idea to consider options that are. A textured pedal provides a better grip, making it easy to race and do your stunts. If the pedals don’t provide you with enough traction, wear high-traction shoes.
(d) Pedal Mount
The attachment (the point that attaches the pedal to the bike) is a critical consideration when purchasing replacement BMX pedals. Usually these pedals are either screwed on or clipped on. In general, a screw mount provides a firmer hold than a clip mount.
(e) Brand type
Some BMX pedals are associated with better quality pedals than others. Therefore, consider a pedal brand with a good reputation.
Some notable names in the BMX sector include 25NINE, SE Racing, BEKEIN Pro, Rockbros and Darer.
(f) Budget
The price can tell you whether you are buying good quality BMX pedals or an inferior choice. Expect decent quality BMX pedals averaging $30-$50 or a little more. However, you can get some good choices averaging $16-$25.
(g) Maintenance
Buy BMX pedals that are easy to maintain. They should be easy to clean and more resistant to rust. In that case, options with round sections or more openings should be a primary consideration as they allow you to shake off the mud.
Options such as plastic, nylon, and aluminum alloy also resist rusting, making them good choices.
Are BMX pedals universal?
Not all bicycle pedals fit all bicycles. Pedals are usually available in 1/2 inch and 9/16 inch options expressed as 1/2″ x 20 TPI (12.7 x 1.27 mm) and 9/16” x 20 TPI (14.28 x 1 respectively) .27mm).
The difference is that 9/16-inch pedals are limited to BMX bikes, kids bikes, and old cruisers. 9/16 inch pedals, on the other hand, are the modern pedals that are compatible with most adult bicycles, including MTBs, road bikes and BMX bikes.
For that reason, most people refer to 9/16-inch pedals as standard or universal. Examples of such pedals are the BIKEIN Pro 9/16″ Platform Pedals and HYSENM Flat Adult 9/16″ Pedals (View on Amazon).
There are actually no standard pedals, because the threads of the spindle and the size and type of the crank must match.
People also ask
1. What size BMX pedals do I need?
If your BMX bike has a one-piece crank, you will need 1/2″ x 20 TPI pedals. But if it’s a two-piece or three-piece, you’ll need 9/16-inch x 20 TPI pedals. So use the crank to determine which BMX pedals to get.
2. What size are bicycle pedal wires?
BMX bikes, kids bikes and vintage beach cruisers come with a 1/2 inch spindle thread size, while modern adult bikes have a 9/16 inch spindle thread size.
3. What size pedals for 3-piece cranks?
3-piece cranks usually require 9/16 inch pedals, also expressed as 9/16″ x 20 TPI or 14.28 x 1.27 mm pedals. These pedals are the new standard. They are modern and compatible with most modern adult bikes.
4. Are bicycle pedals a standard size?
Today, bicycle pedals come with a 9/16 (0.56) inch spindle thread size. Compatible with two-piece and three-piece cranks, these pedals are suitable for modern adult bikes. As a result, the pedal size is seen as standard.
5. How big are the Old School BMX pedals?
Old BMX pedals probably have a spindle width of 1/2 (0.5) inch, which is slightly narrower than the modern BMX pedal (which has a spindle width of 9/16 (0.56) inch.
Also read:
What size are BMX pedals? Final Thought:
In general, modern bikes, including BMX bikes, are compatible with standard 9/16″ pedals. However, old models probably have 1/2 inch pedals as these pedals are exclusive to BMX, kids bikes and some vintage beach cruisers.
