Bicycle Mechanics - Dura-Ace Pedal bearing

I just purchased a new set of Dura-Ace pedals (SPD-SL) to replace the original set (first generation DA SPD-SL). One pedal spins rather freely as it should, always stopping in the cleat hoop up position for ease of entry. But, the other pedal clearly has more friction. Not a lot but, enough that the pedal tends to stay in whatever orientation it finds itself in when I take my foot off the pedal or, when I spin it by hand. When spinning it by hand, it will only make one turn then stop. Since the cleat-hoop is not often in the "up" position, it makes entry aggravating.

Is this an item that can be disassembled and lubricated? I don't have much experience with pedals and, don't know if these bearings can be lubricated, replaced, cleaned or whatever. Although I could send it back to the dealer, the dealer is Probikekit which would be a bit expensive and lengthy.

I just installed exactly the same pedal on my bike and plan to ride it for the very first time tomorrow. I have exactly the same issue/problem with my right pedal. The left pedal spins smoothly by hand, while the right pedal does not spin as smoothly as the left. I think it's the way the pedals are, and I am thinking the right pedal is gonna free-up with use.

I also just took delivery of mine from Probikekit.

From my experience, Shimano does tend to pack too much grease in the bearings of their new pedals and hubs. In the last year or so, I have had the same kind of experience with two sets of Shimano SPD M-520 pedals, a rear Shimano XT hub and a rear Shimano Dura Ace 10-Speed hub. They all got too much grease packing from the factory, to the extent that some grease oozed out on the first week of use, but since then, no issues at all.

So, think too much grease packing in the pedals.

It should spin and get better with use.

Regards,

I just purchased a new set of Dura-Ace pedals (SPD-SL) to replace the original set (first generation DA SPD-SL). One pedal spins rather freely as it should, always stopping in the cleat hoop up position for ease of entry. But, the other pedal clearly has more friction. Not a lot but, enough that the pedal tends to stay in whatever orientation it finds itself in when I take my foot off the pedal or, when I spin it by hand. When spinning it by hand, it will only make one turn then stop. Since the cleat-hoop is not often in the "up" position, it makes entry aggravating.

Is this an item that can be disassembled and lubricated? I don't have much experience with pedals and, don't know if these bearings can be lubricated, replaced, cleaned or whatever. Although I could send it back to the dealer, the dealer is Probikekit which would be a bit expensive and lengthy.

Assuming you bought the "new ones" which are the pd7810.

http://techdocs.shimano.com/media/techdocs/content/cycle/EV/actionsports/PD/EV-PD-7810-2662_v1_m56577569830612675.pdf

That's the exploded diagram for it. You need the special shimano tool TL-PD40 to get component #2 off. Or you can vice grip it and risk mauling it. Or you can do what the poster said above and do nothing. Mine gooped grease out after the first couple days and they are smooth now.

Is this an item that can be disassembled and lubricated?

Sure. This subject has been covered many times on this forum. Here's a link:

http://www.bikeforums.net/showthread.php?t=334688&highlight=rebuild+SPD-SL

A little searching will turn up many more.

I've got about 300 miles on these pedals. Perhaps I will give them another couple hundred. If the stubborn pedal doesn't start freeing up, I will get the Shimano tool and take a chance.

Thanks for the responses.

Or put an hex driver in your drill and rotate the pedal spindle a little and see what happens. A reversible one, if it's your right pedal.

-soma5

Or put an hex driver in your drill and rotate the pedal spindle a little and see what happens. A reversible one, if it's your right pedal.

-soma5

What exactly is this supposed to do? Rotating the spindle, rotates the spindle. It doesn't do anything.

If there is too much grease in the bearings, or if the grease is a little stiff, this can make the spindle rotate more freely. It's arguably similar to riding it more. It's also free and doesn't take a lot of time. You can always take the pedal apart after.

-soma5

Just ride the pedal and all will be well for many a year. Don't try dissassembly as even with the correct tool it is not an easy task to get the preload correct unless you are used to doing it. If you are not happy with the build quality, return the pedals to the LBS.