Motorcycle Safety & Driveability: Minor Repair, suzuki volusia 800, pickle fork

Question
I had a small incident and my rear brake pedal was bent on a Suzuki Volusia 800.  How do I remove this pedal?  I loosened the nut on the collar of the pedal but can't seem to get it off. Do I need a wedge (pickle fork) like you use on an auto tierod end or some type of gear puller?  

Answer
Craig,

Thanks for the question. Sounds like you've pinched the brake pedal onto the post. Normally, once you remove the nut on the collar, the pedal should slide of easily. However, if the bike went over and hit the pedal, it could warp the clasp area and make it tough to come off. You may want to try stressing the pedal in the opposite direction that it was hit, and cinch it off bit by bit. Certainly try to pry it off with regular tools. A wedge and rubber mallet might do the trick. Soak the pedal post area in oil to see if that will loosen it up a bit. Of course,if you try everything and can't get it to detach, defintely get the bike to a dealer, or at least a local mechanic (car or bike) who has more tools than you.

Good luck,

Bill Roberson