Buzz
If you’ve been enjoying your scooter rides this summer, you might have noticed that your wheels are getting worn down or misshapen. Wheels that aren’t perfectly circular anymore don’t provide the smooth ride you’re used to, indicating it’s time for a replacement. With just 2 allen wrenches, you can swiftly swap out your old wheels and get back on the road in no time.
Steps
Removing the Old Wheels
Turn your scooter upside down so the wheels are facing upwards. Place your scooter on a level surface and flip it over, balancing it on the back wheel and handlebars with the wheels facing you. This positioning makes it much easier to work on your scooter.
- You can also ask a friend to hold up your scooter or use a scooter stand for support.
Use 2 allen wrenches to loosen the screws holding the old wheel. Hold one wrench in each hand and insert them into the screw heads on both sides of one wheel. Keep one wrench steady while turning the other counter-clockwise to completely remove the screws.
- You can purchase allen wrenches at most hardware stores.
Remove the axle and screw from the old wheel. The axle is the long, screw-like piece located at the center of the wheel. Take out both the axle and screw from the wheel and set them aside for later use.
- Be sure to keep these parts in a safe place to prevent them from getting lost, as they will be needed later.
- If your old wheels are visibly damaged or broken, avoid attempting to use them on another scooter.
- You can dispose of the old wheel in the trash or keep it as a memento to reminisce about your first set of wheels.
Remove the bearings from the old wheel if your new one lacks them. Bearings are the hollow metal circles located inside the wheel. If your new wheel includes bearings, there is no need to utilize the ones from the old wheel. However, if your new wheel lacks bearings, gently tap them out using an allen wrench.
Tip: Although most new scooter wheels come with bearings, it's wise to verify before proceeding.
Installing the New Wheels
If your new wheel lacks bearings, insert them. Position the wheel bearing into the hole at the center of your new wheel. Gently tap the bearing in using your allen wrench until it sits evenly with the surrounding metal. Repeat the process for the other side of the wheel.
- If your new wheel already comes with bearings, skip this step.
Position your new wheel to match the scooter's screw holes. Take your new wheel and insert it into the space previously occupied by the old wheel. Utilize your allen wrench to ensure the hole in the center of the wheel aligns with the openings on the scooter's sides.
- Ensure your new wheel matches the size and shape of the old one.
- Verify that the new wheel is compatible with your scooter's back wheel.
Insert the axle into the wheel's center. Take the long axle and insert it through the screw openings on the scooter's side and into the wheel. Ensure it passes through both the scooter and the wheel to maintain stability.
Tip: If the axle doesn't slide smoothly through the wheel, use an allen wrench to align the hole and axle.
Insert the second screw into the opposite side of the wheel. Take the second screw and thread it through the other side of the scooter into the wheel. Align it with the axle to ensure a secure connection that supports the wheel.
Secure the screws using an allen wrench. Place one allen wrench into the axle and another into the screw. Hold the allen wrench on the axle steady while turning the one on the screw clockwise. This action will tighten the screw and firmly secure your new wheel in place.
- Ensure the screws are tightened sufficiently to prevent the wheel from coming off while riding your scooter.
Helpful Tips
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Place your hardware on a flat surface to prevent them from rolling away and becoming lost.
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You can replace your front or back wheels using the same method.
Materials Needed
- 2 allen wrenches
- New scooter wheels
