How to Change a Sprocket on a BMX Bike
Like other single-speed bikes, BMX bicycle drive trains contain just one rear sprocket. Working in concert with the front chain ring, the sprocket forms one-half of the bicycle's gearing. Sprockets come in various sizes, and one may be swapped for another, resulting in a different, more favorable gear ratio. The sprocket is located on the right, drive-side of the rear wheel. The wheel must be removed from the bicycle to change the sprocket.
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Things You'll Need
- BMX freewheel removal tool
- Chain whip
- Adjustable wrench
- Replacement sprocket
Instructions
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Sprocket Removal
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1
Place the wheel upright on the ground between your feet with the sprocket facing away.
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2
Thread a freewheel removal tool through the space in the center of the cog. Not all free wheel removal tools are alike. When purchasing one, be sure it is compatible with single-speed BMX freewheels.
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3
Fit an adjustable wrench onto the flats of the freewheel removal tool. Hold the wrench handle at the 10 o'clock position.
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4
Wrap the chain-portion of a chain whip across the top of the sprocket. Hold the handle at the 3 o'clock position.
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5
Push the handle of the adjustable wrench down to loosen the lock ring in the middle of the sprocket.
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6
Continue to loosen the lock ring, and remove the lock ring and sprocket from the freewheel.
Sprocket Replacement
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7
Lay the wheel on its side with the right, drive-side face up.
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8
Fit the new sprocket onto the freewheel.
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9
Thread the lock ring onto the freewheel, using just your fingers. Continue turning the lock ring clockwise until you are no longer able.
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10
Thread the freewheel removal tool through the middle of the sprocket.
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11
Fit the adjustable wrench onto the freewheel removal tool. While holding the wheel steady, rotate the freewheel removal tool clockwise to fully tighten the sprocket.
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1
References
- Photo Credit bmx weels image by Alexey Klementiev from Fotolia.com
