How to Change the Wheel Bearings on Motorcycles

Wheel bearings are some of the most durable parts of a motorcycle — but when they fail, it's dangerous for you and your bike. If your bearings are starting to show signs of wear, a quick replacement can get you back on the road quickly. Not comfortable with a DIY repair? Get in touch with our service department at Interstate Cycles or come by our location in Lake City, Florida, serving Jacksonville and Gainesville.

Remove the Wheel and Set Up a Work Area

Once you've determined which wheel has bad bearings, remove it from the bike. Clear off a worktable and rest the wheel on two blocks of wood; this creates a stable, supportive surface that protects the rim and rotor. Depending on the design of the bike, you might also need to remove the sprocket carrier.

Remove the Seals

Insert a flathead screwdriver into the center of the wheel seal and use gentle pressure to pry it out of the hub. Flip the wheel and remove the opposite seal. If your seals are stuck, try heating the hub with a torch for 15-30 seconds. If your bike has circlips under the seals, use pliers to pull them out carefully.

Drive Out the Bearing and Spacers

Insert a drift into the center of the wheel, and position it, so the edge catches on the inner ring of the bearing. Tap the end of the drift with a hammer to loosen the bearing. Continue around the inner edge until the bearing and spacer fall out. Flip the wheel and repeat with the opposite side. If your bearing refuses to budge, use a torch to heat the wheel hub; the heat can help release the bearing.

Clean the Bearing Seats

Spray a clean cloth with contact cleaner. Insert the cloth into the hub and use it to wipe away any residue from the hub and the bearing race. Add a layer of grease to the outer edges of the new bearings.

Install the New Bearings

Heat the hub, and place the new wheel bearing into the hole. Tap gently around the edges with a hammer to get the bearing into place, making sure it's sitting evenly. Place a bearing driver over the bearing, insert the driver handle, and tap on it with a hammer until the new bearing is flush with the face of the wheel. The tool delivers the force to the outer race, ensuring that it slides in squarely.

Flip the wheel over, drop in the spacer, and install the second wheel bearing following the same procedure. Make sure the spacer is lined up with the inner races. Press the wheel seals back into place.

As long as you're comfortable with basic motorcycle repairs, bearing replacements is a doable DIY project. If you'd prefer a professional replacement, call us at Interstate Cycles or visit us in Lake City, Florida, where we serve riders from around Jacksonville and Gainesville.