How to change wheel bearings

Don’t sacrifice your safety with worn out hub components

1 Make the diagnosis

The lifespan of a wheel bearing depends on how the bike is used. Symptoms of worn bearings include poor handling, instability and an MoT fail. You can check them by raising the wheel off the ground and then attempting to move it from side to side. A worn bearing will allow movement between the hub and spacer, and will feel notchy when you spin the wheel.

2 Access the worn parts

Remove the wheel and inspect the area around the hub, placing the wheel on a suitable surface so it can be worked on. Clean the bearing or seal area well. If you have removed the back wheel, inspect the bearing in the sprocket carrier if it has one. This bearing can be mounted in the complete wheel assembly so should not be overlooked.

3 Inspect seals and spacers

Remove any spacers and make a note of which side they go, as well as where they meet the bearing through the seal. Check the condition of spacers and bearings for rough edges or corrosion that will need cleaning up. With a pry-bar or screwdriver, gently prise off any dust seals captive above the bearings. Inspect seals for damage or any signs of perishing.

4 Clean and unclip

To make it easier to remove the bearing, clean the area around the inner hub using a clean cloth and contact cleaner. Bearings are often located with a circlip so remove any retaining clips while making a note of which way round they are installed (eg, sharp edge facing up). With all circlips removed, check for any shims or washers and remove.