Question

How do you remove and replace a rear wheel on a Royal Enfield motorcycle?

Answer 1

To remove and replace the rear wheel on a Royal Enfield motorcycle, you'll need a few tools and follow these steps:

Note: The following instructions are general guidelines and may vary slightly depending on the specific model of your Royal Enfield motorcycle. Always refer to your motorcycle's owner manual for detailed instructions and safety precautions.

Tools needed:

1. Socket wrench or spanner set
2. Allen wrenches (hex keys)
3. Torque wrench
4. Motorcycle stand or lift (optional)
5. Tire spoons or tire iron
6. Rubber mallet or soft-faced hammer
7. Axle grease or lubricant

Here's a step-by-step process:

1. Preparation:

   • Park your motorcycle on a flat, stable surface.
   • Engage the rear brake to prevent the wheel from rotating.
   • If you have a center stand or motorcycle lift, use it to elevate the rear wheel. This step is optional but can make the process easier.

2. Loosening the rear axle:

   • Locate the rear axle nut on the right side of the motorcycle.
   • Use a socket wrench or spanner to loosen the axle nut but do not remove it completely at this stage.

3. Loosening the chain tension:

   • Find the chain adjusters on both sides of the swingarm near the rear axle.
   • Use an Allen wrench to loosen the locknuts on both sides.
   • Turn the adjuster bolts clockwise or counterclockwise to decrease the tension on the chain. This will vary depending on whether you need to tighten or loosen the chain.

4. Removing the rear wheel:

   • Once the chain tension is adequately loosened, remove the axle nut completely.
   • Carefully slide the rear axle out from the right side of the motorcycle, ensuring not to lose any spacers or washers.
   • Gently tap the axle from the left side with a rubber mallet or soft-faced hammer to loosen the wheel.
   • Slide the wheel backward and off the drive chain and sprocket.

5. Installing the new rear wheel:

   • Ensure the wheel is aligned with the chain and sprocket. Guide the wheel onto the drive chain and sprocket, sliding it forward into place.
   • Insert the rear axle through the left side of the swingarm and wheel hub.
   • Make sure any spacers or washers are in the correct position on the axle.
   • Thread the axle nut back onto the axle and tighten it finger-tight for now.

6. Adjusting chain tension and aligning the wheel:

   • Begin by aligning the wheel properly within the swingarm. Ensure it is centered and straight.
   • Use the adjuster bolts on both sides of the swingarm to set the desired chain tension. Refer to your motorcycle's manual for the correct chain slack measurement and adjust accordingly.
   • Once the tension is set, tighten the locknuts on the adjuster bolts securely.
   • Use a torque wrench to tighten the rear axle nut to the recommended torque specification provided in the manual.

7. Final checks:

   • Double-check that the wheel is properly aligned and centered.
   • Confirm that the chain tension is within the recommended range.
   • Give the wheel a spin to ensure it rotates freely without any obstructions.
   • Check that all fasteners, including the axle nut and adjuster locknuts, are tightened securely.

That's it! You have successfully removed and replaced the rear wheel on your Royal Enfield motorcycle. Remember to follow the manufacturer's instructions and take necessary safety precautions throughout the process.