Cotter Pins

Cotter Pins

Steel Bicycle Crank Cotter Pins – Traditional, High-Strength Retention for Bottom Bracket Cranks

This pair of Steel Bicycle Crank Cotter Pins is a vital, traditional component used in the drivetrain of many utility and older bicycles. These are tapered steel pins, not the split-pin style, designed to be driven through the crank arm and the bottom bracket spindle to create a high-strength compression fit. This method ensures the crank arm is securely locked to the spindle, handling the high torque and stress generated during pedaling.

Each pin comes complete with a threaded end, a washer, and a hex nut (as visible in the image). The nut and washer system allows the pin to be reliably tightened and locked into position after seating, preventing loosening during use and ensuring maximum safety and integrity in the drivetrain assembly. They are made from durable steel with a plated finish (implied zinc/chrome) for corrosion resistance.

Key Benefits

• Secure Crank Retention: Tapered pin design creates an extremely tight, non-slip compression fit between the crank arm and spindle.

• Heavy-Duty Steel: Built to withstand the high torque and stress of continuous pedaling forces.

• Complete Fastener: Includes the pin, washer, and nut for reliable locking after initial seating.

• Reliable Design: Traditional and proven method for securing crank arms on utility and older bicycles.

• Corrosion Resistance: Plated finish protects the steel from rust and weathering.

Technical Specifications

• Product Type: Bicycle Crank Cotter Pins / Tapered Pins

• Material: Steel (Plated Finish)

• Design: Tapered body with threaded end

• Application: Securing Crank Arm to Bottom Bracket Spindle (Cottered Cranks)

• Included: Pin, Washer, and Hex Nut (per pin, visible)

• Grade: Utility/Heavy-Duty Replacement

Perfect For

• Repairing and maintaining older bicycles with traditional cottered cranksets.

• Securing crank arms on heavy-duty delivery or industrial utility bikes.

• Bicycle workshops specializing in retro or utility bike maintenance.

• Replacing bent or rusted original crank pins.

Application Instructions

• Installation: Clean the crank arm and spindle hole. Insert the tapered pin through the hole.

• Seating: Use a specialized cotter pin press or a hammer (carefully) to seat the tapered end of the pin firmly into the spindle.

• Securing: Place the washer and thread the nut onto the pin end. Tighten the nut securely to lock the pin in place.

• Safety Check: Ensure the pin is fully seated and the nut is tight before riding.

Pro Tips

• Use ample grease on the threads and the tapered body before installation to ease future removal.

• Always tighten the pins to the manufacturer’s recommended torque to prevent loosening, which can damage the crank arm.

• When removing old cotter pins, use a press tool to avoid damaging the crank arm.

• Replace both pins simultaneously for balanced retention.

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