Removing a bicycle crank is a necessary task for maintenance, repairs, or upgrades. The crank is the part of the bike that connects the pedals to the chainring, which in turn drives the rear wheel. Removing the crank requires specialized tools and some mechanical knowledge.
There are two main types of bicycle cranks: square taper and splined. Square taper cranks are the most common and are held in place by a bolt that tightens against the spindle. Splined cranks are more common on higher-end bikes and are held in place by a pinch bolt that clamps onto the spindle.