Wheel Bearings

[Jim]

Frenchy pointed out on Sunday that the bearings in my rain wheels are toast, which explains that ugly clicking noise coming from the wheel when the bike rolls.

I know nothing about wheel bearings. Is it easy to replace, or will I need to have them pressed in? How does one check if the bearings are bad?

I've got some time this weekend, and would like to get this done while I have the wheels off.

[butcher bergs]

Rotate each inner bearing race by hand. Anything other than smooth, replace it.

They are easy to replace for the most part.

I'll send you a pic of what I use to press bearings. Slicker 'n' owl turd I tell ya.

[Jim]

and do bearings get replaced in the front & rear wheels, or it typically done in the rear wheel only?

[butcher bergs]

They get replaced when they go bad.

[The Snowman]

They get replaced when they go bad.

Check out All Balls Racing. They sell wheel bearings for less than stock and they're as good, if not better.

I use waterproof grease on the outside of the bearings on my rain wheels to prevent it from getting to the bearings. It helps.

[Degsy]

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Jim. Order bearings from all balls direct. Get them delivered to my house. I'll put them in the freezer and we can install them this weekend. Takes 5 minutes.

[Jim]

So these aren't typically replaced as a set? Only when needed?

[Doc]

Yep only when needed but new ones are cheap and it is a good thing to do.

As for install, looks like Degs has you covered. Basically you freeze the bearings and heat the hub. Bearings will pop right in without having to press them.

[Jim]

thanks guys. i just called and ordrered two sets to replace dry and rain wheels from All Balls.