To remove the rear wheel on a Harley Davidson motorcycle, follow these general steps:
Gather the necessary tools: You'll typically need a socket wrench or Allen wrench, a torque wrench, and possibly a breaker bar or a rubber mallet.
Elevate the motorcycle: Use a motorcycle lift or center stand to raise the rear wheel off the ground. Ensure that the bike is stable and secure before proceeding.
Loosen the axle nut: Locate the axle nut on the left side of the rear wheel and use a socket wrench or the appropriate tool to loosen it. Note that some models may have axle nuts with cotter pins that need to be removed first.
Loosen the axle adjusters: On the right side of the swingarm, you'll find axle adjuster bolts. Loosen these bolts to create some slack in the drive belt or chain tension. Make sure to take note of the original position of the adjuster bolts for reinstallation.
Remove the axle: Once the axle nut is loose and the adjusters are loosened, push the axle toward the right side of the bike. This will allow the axle to clear the left-side spacer. Gently tap the axle with a rubber mallet if needed to help it slide out.
Slide out the rear wheel: With the axle removed, carefully slide the rear wheel straight back to disengage it from the drive belt or chain. Be cautious not to damage any brake components while doing so.
Inspect and service the wheel: Once the rear wheel is removed, it's a good opportunity to inspect the tire, brake pads, bearings, and any other components. Service or replace any parts as necessary.
To reinstall the rear wheel, simply reverse the steps above, ensuring that you tighten the axle nut and adjusters to the manufacturer's recommended torque specifications. It's always a good idea to consult your specific motorcycle's manual for detailed instructions tailored to your model.