What Is a Pedal Spanner?
A pedal spanner is a wrench specifically designed for the purpose of removing pedals from bicycles and other vehicles. To remove a pedal, the nut in the narrow space between the pedal and the crank must be removed. For this reason, the pedal spanner has a thinner head and a longer handle to make it easier to apply force.
Many wrenches have an ingenious grip so that even people with limited strength can use them. The inclination of the bore and the length of the handle affect the comfort of use.
Uses of Pedal Spanners
Pedal spanners specialized for removing pedals from bicycles and other vehicles are used not only for replacing bicycle pedals but also for automobile maintenance.
Pedal spanners are often used to replace pedals on road bikes and cross bikes with binding pedals. Some pedal spanners have different bore sizes to accommodate multiple bikes.
A single-pedal spanner can be used in various situations and is often carried along when touring.
How to Select Pedal Spanners
Here are some points to consider when selecting pedal spanners:
- Thickness of the Head
Since pedal spanners are inserted between the pedals and cranks, opt for those with a head thickness of 5mm or less. If you value portability, choose one with a thickness of 2~3 mm. - Angle of the Bore
The most common pedal spanners are those with the bore attached at a 15° angle to the handle. If you want to use a pedal spanner at multiple angles, choose pedal spanners with two different bore angles on both ends. - Grip Length
Choose a grip length of 12″. If you are carrying it when touring, for example, and you value ease of carrying rather than ease of handling, you should choose one with a length of 7.5″. - Ease of Grip
The shape of the grip varies from product to product. Pedal spanners with easy-to-grip grips, such as cylindrical or non-slip grips, are suitable for use by women or for loosening rusty nuts.