Mount A Rear Wheel With Wheel Nuts

Introduction

Replacing the rear wheel is a simple task, although the gear mechanism makes it a slightly more complicated than replacing the front wheel.

Step 1

Lower The Bike Onto The rear Wheel

Put the chain onto the fastest sprocket and watch the axle into the slots on each side where it fits. The weight of the bike will help you get the rear wheel in exactly the right place.

Pro Tip

If the bike has a horizontal slot for the back rear wheel you will need to adjust the rear wheel carefully by to get it in the best place.

Step 2

Check The Position

With your head on the bike’s centreline check the rear wheel is centred in the frame.

Step 3

Tighten The Fixings

Check the position of any washers and tighten the nuts on each side by hand. Use the spanner to half-tighten each nut in turn. Check the rear wheel is still centred then fully tighten each side in turn.

Step 4

Close the brakes

Close the brakes and check they’re working well

Pro Tip

Lock the rear wheel nuts with the tool – or one the same length as – the one you carry for fixing punctures. A long workshop tool may lock them too tight for you to open with your ‘carry-along’ spanner.