How to Unbuckle a Bike Wheel

Bike wheel maintenance can be performed on your own, but it's not always easy. Bent rims and broken spokes can ruin a wheel and force you to install a replacement. If your wheel needing replacement is the front wheel, you're in luck--the process is quick and easy. The back wheel, though, is a bit trickier. The hardest part is unbuckling the bike wheel.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Crescent wrenches

1. Disconnect the brake from the wheel. On many bikes, this will only require flipping a switch or clip. You might have to unscrew a nut using a crescent wrench to relieve brake tension.

2. Unclip any wheel fasteners at the spoke.

3. Adjust the rear shifter until your bike chain is on the smallest gear, if you are unbuckling the rear tire. If you are unbuckling the front wheel, continue to Step 4.

4. Pull back on the quick-release lever if your bike has one. If not, simply unscrew the nut and bolt connecting the bike wheel to the frame until it comes free.

Tips & Warnings

• If the bike tire is wider than the brakes and you can't loosen the brakes, let some air out of the tire.

References

• BicycleTutor.com

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