How To Check And Replace Your Motorcycle Wheel Bearings | The Shop Manual

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If you like rolling down the road on your motorcycle, you have the bearings in your hubs to thank. Wheel bearings are simple and durable parts, but they do wear out over time. In this episode of The Shop Manual, we’ll walk you through inspecting and replacing your motorcycle’s wheel bearings.
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[@RevZilla]

Keep your bike rolling smoothly with new wheel bearings. RevZilla has you covered: rvz.la/3P4OIuK

[@Subboxstoker]

Ari has figured out how to get paid to work on his bike. Excellent

[@vintagealchemist4328]

He's been doing since MC Garage Days. Mad Lad

[@AriH211]

Gotta embrace episode topics wherever I can find them!

[@mykheaton]

And rightly so :)

[@xb5883]

Yep, and Zach taking the long way to work

[@roscocsa]

I can send him my 80’s goldwing if he needs a project…

[@johnhoaglun1]

Simple and straightforward. Thanks to Revzilla for making the content from Ari, Zack, and Spenser available to us.

[@GaLaKtIkclan]

Another thing to mention here, is you'll notice the bearings are NTN bearings or will most likely be some other common bearing brand which you can buy yourself from a bearing supplier for usually much less than the motorcycle specific kits you'll find online that are OEM or aftermarket (All balls/pivotworks etc...). As for the seals, these can also be purchased from a bearing supplier, you'll just have the measure them with some calipers. Take a picture of the markings on the rubber sealing rings on the bearings and that will usually have the bearing partnumber and enquire at a local bearing shop or online. If you're unsure, be bet is just to take the seals and bearings out and get the guys at the bearing shop to measure them out for you and they should be able to supply you with identical ones even if they're not the same brand. This also works for other bearings and seals on your bike, especially internal engine bearings. OEM and Motorcycle aftermarket kits are usually a bit on the priceier side, so this can save you quite a bit of money at times, this especially saved me a lot when I had to get engine bearings for my WR450f

[@tolga1cool]

Definitely do this! It saves a ton of money. OEM markup on bearings is sometimes 5-10x. BUT!! Make sure that the bearings are the exact same spec as the old ones. Ive had it before that a bike specified some non standard bearing clearance spec

[@gregorytubbs3444]

​@@tolga1cool Good point. This reminds me of an air compressor bearing that was sold only by the manufacturer. You couldn't get away with buying a common name brand replacement.

[@joepi5]

​@@tolga1cool this is almost always the case at the rear axle because there are 3 bearings. All motorcycles I replaced the wheel bearings in had a C3 clearance bearing in the "middle" bearing, so in the wheel hub on the side of the chain.

[@rhemyis]

@H Sqrd oem bearings are more expensive not only because of the price policy but because of the high quality they offer, a quality bearing means more than just two rollers with some steel balls between them, the market is full of counterfeit products and those NTN bearings that you mentioned are highly targeted by Chinese being a reputable company. So, buying a big brand for a cheap price might be a good deal for your pocket but no so reliable for your motorcycle. If prefer buying oem for jobs where I must be sure I got a high quality part and wheel bearings are included in this category.

[@GaLaKtIkclan]

@@rhemyis you're not wrong. But if you're buying bearings from a reputable bearing supplier, there is a very small chance that you'll be getting counterfeit bearings

[@JDnBeastlet]

Everything you need to know and nothing you don't, presented with excellent narration, editing and production - just what I've come to expect from The Shop Manual. Ari and team - thanks and please keep 'em coming!

[@ReQuiem_2099]

I don't know how well these videos do on the KZbins, but know that they are incredibly valuable and appreciated by those of us that watch! Keep up the awesome work at Revzilla, Common Tread, HSLS, and can't wait for the next big adventure!

[@neil1266]

It's very hard to simplify a process that you know off by heart and make it easily understandable by anybody,Ari has this understanding and ability and it's plain to see. I cannot stress enough how important being able to do this is,well done Ari a fantastic explanation as always.

[@mackan98502]

my favorite series on youtube. cant get enought of Ari.

[@tolga1cool]

I would have liked a bit more focus on the rear wheel also, since oftentimes the sprocket carrier has its own bearing which can be much much more of a pita to replace then the wheel itself

[@jiikooo]

I know how to change bearings maybe even my eyes closed but ari's how to videos are so well explained and entertaining that if he made a video how to but the key in to the ignition, i would watch it 😁

[@Quatra05]

The SM vids are some of my favorite! The knowledge conveyed, paired with videography excellence makes for a video that is not only captivating, but also incredibly informative. Thank you for always going the extra mile to provide excellent content 👍

[@justmyself1000]

Thank you again Mister Ari! I already know how to do most of these things but I love watching your videos just to double-check. And even learn possibly a different way of doing things.

[@OG_Mereles]

I don't even own a bike and love this show.

[@SoybeanAK]

Literally perfect timing! Just got a new bike with a squeaky front end, was about to call the shop! Thanks a ton Ari!

[@TheCornflake76]

Old bearings come in handy for driving the new bearings in when you don't have the right socket or specialty tool.

[@GuillermoChancey2]

Thanx Ari! I love when Ari uses his Versys for these videos. I have one just like it and it's very fortunate for me.

[@blipco5]

For a FREE DRIVER TOOL… After you remove the old bearing, take it too your bench grinder and grind off about 1/32 inch off the surface of the outer race (this prevents it from getting stuck in the bore). And the same off the end of the inner race (so it won’t contact the inner race of the new bearing). Wear leather gloves because it’ll spin like crazy. Easy peasy. 👍

[@sam2920]

Good tip, thanks.

[@todayletsbuild2153]

Great video. The extra time taken to preserve the bore in the wheel is great. It is amazing how some good maintenance when not thought out can cause future issues. Great work Ari..

[@billiondollardan]

Dude I feel like I haven't seen Ari in years. Idk if I'm just not getting notifications and stuff but it's cool to watch the video

[@bluessrv1]

Great video! Love the Motion Pro line of tools. They've got some really neat stuff that, although a little pricey, can save your blood pressure from going through the roof!

[@SSS-mp8th]

I know how but I probably won't, still thanks Ari at least now I know what's involved.

[@jamesberry276]

Great video! Every detail covered and shown well. I watched for yet another answer to what is the best bearing grease and came away with alot more knowledge on Every aspect of bearing check/change. I thank You very much! 👍

[@Milaventuras1000]

I have an old bike that needs to do that, this will come in handy. Thanks Ari for the clear explanation, learned some handy tricks

[@John-mb7yl]

My favorite motorcycle mechanic Ari ❤❤❤ who explains so well n makes it look effortless 😊

[@hugoharmstorf6234]

Always a great day when a Shop Manual video drops.

[@DmitriyAdv]

Good tip on cleaning/greasing the collars and seals every time the wheels are off. I don’t know why so few people do this. It makes the bearings last so much longer and your wheels roll smoother. I also always check the OEM catalog for bearings and seals. They are often cheaper than aftermarket kits like “all balls” and higher quality.

[@JA-jg5le]

Agreed. Too many amateurs on social media questioning good practice

[@hunterman600cc]

There's just something about watching him do it that instills confidence.

[@roykessels]

Solid video! I'd like to add grease to the inside of the new seal, to make it last longer and give the bearing another layer of protection.

[@wilharnecker2575]

Thanks Ari! Nobody does these vids better than you!

[@Firestorm637]

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ Your review/installs are the best. Straightforward and very informative. Thank you

[@CaptLawrence]

Are you following me around because I swear this is the third time I've struggled through a job and then you post a handy guide when I'm done lol. Now I know what all I did wrong!

[@jeffreymurillo3131]

5:35 That bearing removal tool is awesome, makes the job so much easier.

[@durtkillon]

I used this video to change out the bearings on my 650. Thank you!

[@addvali]

Absolutely perfect how-to. Just did the wheel bearings on my Versys (the only difference is that the sprocket hub also has a bearing in it) using this as my guide and it came out perfectly! Thanks Ari!

[@mcwopbrother1]

I'd like to complain...quit giving heartfelt messages at the end, making us feel like you care. You and Zach shouldn't be allowed to exist for being better riders and people than most of us. Obviously kidding. You guys are phenomenal and a huge reason I still look to Revzilla first and even if it's a doable amount more I buy from them rather than someone else. I live in an area where I can't really support local and they do nothing to encourage it anyway..so....well.....I appreciate everything ya'll produce and please never stop. Hope you both start making more money for your efforts because your obvious real dedication to riders is hard to find. But seriously...smoking us all on track, knowing more and being kickass humans on top of it just seems like we should ban ya'll lmao.

[@steveh100]

Thanks Ari, learnt loads, this is definately something I'm going to do consider everytime I change tyres now.

[@_sam317]

I just replaced mine few hours ago. Definitely will try that freezer trick on my other bike. Thanks Ari

[@motomuso]

Another solid vid. Kershaw knives indeed! Believe it. I sent in my Ken Onion Leek Serrated for a lost safety slide. In addition, the point had been slightly bent. They sent back what was basically a brand new, razor-sharp knife at no charge.

[@Marcel_DL650]

Good timing. I just wanted to give it a go. Thanks, this is a very helpful guide a usually. I really appreciate your help and guidance. Your such a treasure for the motorcycle community. Keep up the good work! 👍

[@blipco5]

See my comment above.

[@skandix]

Perfectly explained!

[@Quadrenaro]

I went over the bars yesterday on a track, and I'm feeling it today! Luckily the only thing broken was a light.

[@davidalder6558]

Thank you Ari. Informative and well presented. I always enjoy your channel. Dave from Nova Scotia Canada

[@fattymcgee123]

Perfect timing. Wheel bearings and seals arrived today, but from FortNine as I'm a canuck.

[@KRColson]

This is a fantastic video! Thanks so much for sharing your knowledge with us. Cheers!

[@sawyer4981]

This video saved my bacon. Was replacing my tire and never thought to inspect the bearings. Sure enough, one of them had a rough spot it was hanging up on. Was on the verge of going. Got em all replaced and am worry free for the foreseeable future!

[@Syedsai]

Miss you so much back then on mc garage. Sorry didn't get back to this new channel earlier. Glad to see you back! And you have recovered fully from your facial injury during ur mc days.

[@smason]

Far less intimidating than it seemed. Many thanks!

[@michaeldobson8859]

Nice job. Very effective to demonstrate multiple methods. Not everyone has shop tools. Maybe you could have mentioned to do an inspection if the wheel continues to vibrate in use after balancing. Vibration is a sign of failed bearings if the tire / wheel is properly balanced.

[@fabriziobianchi3126]

Grazie...veramente grazie per questa intervista!!!...immenso Luciano!!!

[@KensGarage1]

As usual excellent content and instruction on a very important maintenance item. Thanks.

[@martinl6205]

Very informative with very sound advice as always thanks!

[@STho205]

Very well presented and realistically done for the avg shadetree with a bike. I do the tactile inspection every tire change, but since I carry the wheels to a shop that mounts and balances for $15 if I bring them in (only $30 if they have to remove wheels)...I think at this point in age I'd just let them replace the bearings since they have a shop press.

[@gthaley_81]

I'll be honest, I never even considered the wheel bearings and I'm now very curious to inspect them on the bikes as I'm an experienced auto mechanic and I'm trying to transition from entrusting my bikes to the shop to handling most of their care myself (it's not as straight forward a transition as most people assume, I'm learning). Curious as I watched this video, I pulled out the TSM on my new SCL500 and noted that it also has a bearing in the driven flange (the wheel sprocket assembly), so there's 3 in the rear wheel assembly. I enjoy learning, and I plan to have my dad watch your video on fitting your bike to you as I think he can make use of some of the pointers. Keep up the good work, guys.

[@diyeveryday67]

Thank You Ari!!

[@1986XRV8]

Great information, Ari!

[@avrc9285]

would like to see more of these how-to videos - great job as always sir, thank you !

[@wfodavid]

Simple stuff that can keep you from sitting on the side of the road or ruining your or race day. Solid vid!

[@happyshoe1]

This is a great video, thanks! It’s very much appreciated.

[@mikeskidmore6754]

Very well Presented showing three different Methods.. I never used heat, but do always put my bearings in the Freezer. I will try using a heat gun. I don't like to use a torch one something painted very much .

[@braticuss]

Exactly what I need, right when I needed it!

[@seth_iwant_toride]

Excellent Ari! I really enjoy these👊

[@sanjaywright681]

This is so awesome.. man I needed this

[@JA-jg5le]

Nailed it - superb walk through 👍

[@louislopez55]

Hey Ari, can you tell us about your forearm workout?😮

[@EBthere]

Thanks Ari and RevZilla!

[@tudajfor]

You sir are just the best!

[@pnwgreg300]

Excellent vid as always

[@chrisb792]

Thanks, really helpful and i feel i could now give this a go

[@niconine268]

Nice one bro. No hype no heavy

[@user-hf8ie8mf3n]

I drifted a little during the middle, but got my bearings back….👍🤪🇨🇦

[@DarkIzo]

one tip for installing the spacer: when hammering/pushing down the second bearing, get slow when approaching the spacer when installed, the spacer should be hard to move by finger, but it should still be movable. too easy to move means there is too much room, too hard or impossible to move means you probably knocked the spacer against the first bearing, possibly causing it to wear prematurely, since the inner race is pushed outwards causing higher pressure on the bearing

[@sv650nyc7]

Exactly. That was quite an important oversight, especially since it's very easy to hammer the second bearing in too far since it won't have a stop like the first one. You have to work slowly and feel the room the spacer has after every hit.

[@matjazpajek4390]

Interesting. On my nc750x, manuals calls for both wheel bearings to be fully sitted, one on the iner sleeve and the second on the spacer. If you don't do that, you can not install dust seal flash with the hub. Any thoughts?

[@KensGarage1]

Nice add on tip Darklzo.

[@zomoto1390]

Is there a particular side in which the bearing should be installed first?

[@NavigatEric]

this is really really good.

[@sergiosuarez9126]

Super helpful video as always. Thanks man!

[@mikeskidmore6754]

Don't blast directly on your wheel bearings with a Pressure Washer..

[@williamwintemberg]

Exactly!

[@Xiph1980]

Hey, I just happen to like my bearings as shiny as the chrome on my bike!

[@ducksoff7236]

Yes its better not to but if you are properly maintaining your bike in the first place it isn't going to matter much. For one the shock and swing arm axle mounts are blocking stream. Next the grease you should be using is protecting the seals. Next the seals are completely blocking the bearing. Plus the bearings themselves have their own seals. So if you do happen to blast the area where the bearings are hiding behind. Just smear on some grease to replace the little you may have washed off. Should kind of do that anyway regardless on if you gave it a direct blast or not.

[@mikeskidmore6754]

@@ducksoff7236 If you want me to Pressure wash your bike with my Hot Water Pressure washer @ 2,000 PSI .. I can blow the Lips off the seals and blow all the grease out of the bearings. The only way you can add grease to swing arm and linkage bearings is to disassemble them and add grease. then put it all back together with new seals. My Yamaha Snowmobile has many grease Zerks on the Suspension system. Too bad the skid keeps breaking and I am replacing it with Diamond Air Suspension. I had some 1970's Yamahas that actually had grease zerks on the swing arm. Also the zerks on my Snowmobile skid just leaked grease out the sides. I had to weld some zerks and JB Weld others so the grease went where it was supposed to go .. My Buell has some nice Rubber Dust seals that go over the wheel bearings and seals .

[@aayushpoudel2362]

Please make a video on cush rubber.

[@CptSlow89]

Bought 1996. Kawasaki EX500 in 2008. Had it for 14 years and never replaced any bearing. No problems only put some grease in the front one.

[@CubanRider]

Lots of great info Ari. I've also heard landing those wheelies under power is key to preserving the bearings. 😉

[@DearMajesty]

More applicable to the steering bearings, but I suppose it can apply for wheel bearings too

[@magellanicspaceclouds]

I had to do this to my Grom recently. I also used AllBalls.

[@SsgtHolland]

Great video, thanks!

[@bonerfi9254]

Awesome timing if this vid. Cheers, guys 🍻 🍻

[@acehandler1530]

Excellent, thank you 🙂

[@ravinchem3035]

Excellente tutorial. helps me a lot 👍🏻

[@jetstarsuk2364]

Great video. Thanks.

[@southpawscientific4122]

Barry Henning makes motorcycle repair look so easy

[@derrickmosley80]

This was a great and thorough video. I believe I need to change my bearings because I hear a howling noise, and will be ordering my parts from revzilla.

[@pmdinaz]

Good stuff, as always

[@Johnnyhandgernade]

Another great video!

[@chriscook7004]

Great Video

[@Joshuawelds]

Imagine a world where every used bike for sale had Ari Henning as it's previous owner. The confidence/peace of mind as a buyer would be life changing.

[@AriH211]

I take a lot of pride in fully rebuilding well-used CBR250/300s and offering them for sale to new riders. Buying used (and cheap) shouldn’t have to mean you’re buying a basket case.

[@Hansengineering]

This is a very tightly produced video. No fat in the script.

[@waynemetzger6251]

Great vidio !!

[@ronnelsolis]

Thank you!

[@grimey5.565]

I love RevZilla. I buy all my gear from them. Their content is also fire. Very informative videos.

[@dennisherreid5393]

Really Good!

[@kenmcelroy7250]

Thanks for the video.

[@andyjdaviestjk]

Love your videos and always give good info 👍

[@polong99]

I know i wont do this DIY but still worth to watch this

[@TrippinBusa]

This was a good watch on vacation.

[@neato24]

Thanks Ari!

[@bznupe30]

Thanks Ari