BMW Motorcycle Front Wheel Bearings Replacement DIY

Sometimes, stuff happens...
This type of bearing replacement covers many years and bikes.
Bearings: 5204 RS and 6204 RS C3 Seal: 30x47x7
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A video created by Kirk's Motorrad Shop. Please work at your own risk. We are not responsible for any damage you do.

[@scottjanney3636]

Great video, I worked in a BMW motorcycle shop years ago. I would suggest a few things: Use propane or map gas torch to heat up the outer race this gets the race hotter and quicker so as to not transfer heat to the bearings. You will only have to gently tap the bearings in or out. If you want the bearings to last longer and ride smoother gently pry out the rubber seals and put more grease in them. For some reasons there is very little grease from the factory. If you can use the axel when installing the bearings,spacer to help align the three When putting the bearings in put the number stamped side to the outside.

[@decocatani]

Love that you kept the "forgotten spacer" part in video...lol! Great job and thanks!

[@wayner4200]

good to see you is as human as me and thanks for leaving it in

[@maryloutravis6596]

When driving the bearings home, need to avoid beating on the inner race. Similarly, when inserting the axle, need to avoid beating on it, because the end of the axle may well be sitting partially on the inner race of the bearing on the far side, and you'll be beating on its inner race.

[@JohnPatrick58]

You're such a good sport for not editing that out, I laughed out loud as well, I did this same job on my R1200 GS this Christmas but I didn't have the clip on my one, I'm going to check to see if its been left out by someone else, great film, John from sunny Devon UK

[@rubsousa]

Excellent explanation about front wheel bearings and the option for replacing the expensive BMW bearings. Good job!

[@stevelinscome728]

I did this over the weekend(one day). Thank you for the video. While doing it, I could hear that horn in my head to make sure I double check everything. Even though the old ones were still good, it's comforting to know I now have new bearings.

[@beemrdon52]

Hi Kirk, I own a BMW K1100 LT. I want to ask you how you know which bearing goes in which side? If I am not mistaken, they are not the same. Thanks for your efforts. Very worthwhile viewing.

[@markhanke3570]

100% agree on your comment about ridiculous BMW bearing prices. Great step-by-step instruction.

[@kkk0412]

Well done for showing your mistake,I've done loads of wheel bearings and have done this myself.good job mate.

[@Bonzodogdick]

Kurt, I stumbled across this video while searching for tips on replacing the front wheel bearings on my K100RS, but I keep coming back to it. If sometimes I feel a little suffocated by the lockdown or if I'm just a bit down in the dumps I know this video is here to turn my frown upside down :-) Honestly, the first time I watched it a bit of wee came out.

[@sjv6598]

Many comments about the different thickness of bearing and which goes in which side. It’s mind numbingly simple, pay attention to how you took them out..

[@Mukeshmiktecrep]

I LMAO when you forgot the spacer and the alarm sound made me imagine that something is going wrong .... Made the scene like a hilarious part.

[@joekilpatrick189]

Another great DIY LT video from Kirk. I bought the bearings for my LT last year, but wasn't sure how to get it done properly. Thank you!!

[@philalbrittongraphics]

One bearing was thicker than the other. You didn't specify which one goes on which side. That was kind of confusing. I just ordered a Tusk set for doing this job on my front wheel of the F bike. Thanks for the video, it IS helpful.

[@umaem7919]

Excellent job! Although you knew you were going to forget the axle spacer☺️ 😞. Overall excellent application of the basic engineering principles- to heat the hub and cool the new bearings

[@johnmalenchek6597]

As far as I know there is no BMW schedule for wheel bearing replacement. I have owned a K1600 GT for 10 years and ridden it over 120,000 miles. Had a left front wheel bearing failure at about 60,000 miles on a long road trip to Rocky Mts. Noticed it was the left bearing that was failing here. Check the Internet other owners reporting left front bearing failures. Word to the wise; check wheel bearings routinely during tire changes (for me once per year). Word to BMW; expand dealer network, lower part prices, publicize known failures (instead of ignoring them)

[@phoso29]

That censor beep-guy was really working that button at 13:22!!!! Overall, a great tutorial on DIY to save money! That I can agree on. Great job!

[@MrMoelbach]

Thank you very much for All your effort. When things occour with My 2000 K1200lt, I always search for your videos. Kindest regards from Denmark 🇩🇰🇩🇰😎😁🇩🇰🇩🇰

[@orangelion03]

Nice to see it's no different than any other bike I've replace wheel bearings on =) And yeah,,,spacers...=/ Complete set of bearings and seals available from All Balls for $30 with shipping.

[@MS-wg4ty]

Very funny, you’re as human as the rest of us. Your reaction was like listening to me.

[@de9ux]

Much appreciated, I have to do my front wheel bearings on my 2005 R1200GS with 74,000 miles on it. Very helpful video.:)

[@adamriley4691]

@12:49 Oh I've been there. Love your videos, after having multiple chuckles to this one, I had to give a like. Thanks

[@artistsunitedfront]

slow zoom in and alert noise just killed me man. I need to this on my BWS scooter soon I am nervous about messing it up as well. We all been there.

[@Boeing767DriverAA]

Thanks I definitely needed this video for my next job. Always waiting for your next video great job.....

[@JeffCameron40845]

Ha ha...your best video yet! Don't mean to laugh at you but that was funny (and we have all been there!)

[@jbrucksnc]

You are the saver of wheels!!

[@yetivanmarshall1473]

How often should you replace motorcycle wheel bearings? I have a 99 RS with little maintenance history. TY

[@scottsdialyadventure1338]

My BMW r1100s I noticed a ticking sound coming from the front end apparently at low speed just rolling. 60k and I'm guessing the front wheel bearings and never been changed. Do you think I'm on the right track? Didn't notice any excessive play but.. my early morning commute to dialysis is typically going 80 to 90 I wonder if this would really fail anytime soon?🙏🙏

[@southend26]

13:07 LOL Thanks for the laugh. Too relatable, tbh.

[@frankski]

Should the axle rod be greased up when putting the tire back on?

[@ThomasSlager]

u hit the bearing directly with the hammer ??? (when putting the new one in)

[@cozydram1]

hello mate long time no see..............kinda found that funny.......whats the saying " Been there done that". frustrating EH! but all good ...... hope to see more from you soon

[@mynameisyasser]

That was so funny :D Loved the sirens

[@371508129]

Off topic question. Opinions of the Black Hole exhaust system and injector upgrade?

[@billhemmingway2156]

Is the first bearing a 5204 2rs? I can't seem to source 5204 rs. Also what size socket did you use to drive the new bearings in? I didnt notice it mentioned

[@robertwilary7142]

lol 4 years later and still getting laughs m8

[@Enonymouse_]

Great vid this will help me when I have to do that for my new k16.

[@MarkoMarcello]

Great job 💪

[@chathurasupun270]

Great job ❤️😘

[@neomatrixfree8031]

Loved the humor, and the replacement. I have a DUMB question. I am feeling a 'hrummmph, hrummmph, hrummmph feeling and sound, that corresponds to my speed, but not whether in gear or not. Could this be wheel bearings? Second DUMB question: Are there REAR wheel bearings to also replace? (Told you it was dumb!)

[@lanksterprice]

Yep, we have all done it at some point, and you said the right words... But ty for adding it in for a little laughter.. Until the next Video and oops... Cali out..

[@mariogauthier1957]

nice job KIRK

[@paidoluca]

Great videos! What the size of the second pro motion tool? The fist one is 20mm.

[@sportsmancraft1]

The right hand bearing fails first because of water ingress while sitting on side stand in the rain or pressure wash.

[@ChrisR.Harris]

That's great Kirk!

[@JohnCooper-zf4fj]

good on yer yank, glad you kept the fuck-up in top man we all make mistakes or we never learn But we also forget. all the best son

[@hached1]

I bought a 2009 R1200GSA recently and decided to try changing the tires by myself. After removing the front wheel I noticed that the seals are a little bent. I’m not intending to replace the bearings, but I’m wondering if I should replace the seals, or is it ok if the are bent.

[@kirksmotorrad]

As long as they are still sealing it is ok. If you are in doubt, change them.

[@tedmarakas2626]

Motion pro makes the tool and they want $80 for it. There are a few other people making a collet type extractor with a slide hammer and a bridge with 16 different collets for $50.

[@jean-mariepeix6129]

Superbes explications !

[@droptine5520]

What is the outer diameter of your bearings? If it's 52mm, what size socket did you use to pound them home. I have an R1200rt and I'm going to change the bearings, which are a 52mm outer diameter.

[@therandallyon]

im gettting some wheel drag on my R1100. Was thinking it was a bearing. Might be a stuck brake. I have no idea if ever the front wheel bearing was every replaced. Bike is at only 148000 km. so still pretty new... lol.

[@leighjennings8547]

Its most likely a dragging disk pad but if you undo brake calipers and put them up out of the way (with the brake line still attached) then spin the wheel you will know if it is bearings or brakes

[@mst10506]

Great video Kirk. Ha, that was a great moment. My buddy just changed his fork seals and only after he drove the new seal in did he see the steel shim sitting on the workbench. BTW, the 5204 bearing is NOT THE RIGHT SIZE for the R1100 oilhead bikes. Suggest you edit your comments to advise folks to check the parts fiche for the nominal sizes of the bearings for each bike. What size socket was used to drive in the bearings?

[@kirksmotorrad]

Socket size 1- 1/4"

[@kbikerider8474]

nice job

[@Mieke3133]

That mistake is rather like looking everywhere for a spanner before you find it in the pocket of your overalls. 🤣

[@phoso29]

Nice job. Thanks for those tips. Really working that cuss button there! 😆

[@kbikerider8474]

Why 11 idiotas gave you a thumbs down, I dont know. I joined the 244 thumbs up. Great job and a little humor also.

[@phillipzoeller8821]

thank you

[@bigbadbobdunn]

Great video!

[@LinuxGalore]

one of my tricks with bearings is to put them in a fridge so they slide in better.

[@rrozzilla464]

Can somebody please confirm it is possible to replace them with branded 5204-2RS and 6204-RS rather than bmw oem to save some ?

[@kirksmotorrad]

Yes. It is in the description and you can find them on my Amazon page. www.amazon.com/shop/illinoisbmwriders

[@burnerjack01]

Awesome! LOL! Now I don't feel so "pregnant &alone"! It ain't 'just me'. Kirk, I've gotta hand it to ya. Only a 'real dude' would leave that in and 'keep it real'. Hat's off to ya!

[@paulorobertosilva1088]

Gostei! Todo mecanico erra, corrige no final. "_ não esqueça o espassador ..."

[@ocean_vagabond]

Hey Kirk, i got a K1200LT again, we talked during my previous adventures with K1200LT's :-) my first one had the electric center stand, and i am dying to upgrade the one i just bought. you know of a thrustworthy source for that system ? i think i need the complete centerstand right ? the wiring i believe is present already in the loom, i'd just need to dig it out somewhere :-)

[@kirksmotorrad]

The wiring is not there on the older models.

[@ocean_vagabond]

@kirksmotorrad hmmm. That sucks, the button is there on the handlebar though. Either way if you know of one for sale feel free to hit me up, I'll wire it up myself if need be

[@kirksmotorrad]

@@ocean_vagabond send me a pic of your button. You may be right. 14wntr@gmail

[@2muchgear750]

Thank you.

[@KieranMckean]

Just like when i drag race and miss a shift......ooops ! Happens to the best of us 😭😀

[@mariogauthier1957]

i like your big buzzer

[@brentharrington1]

Great video, apologies but it made me laugh as well!!

[@PeterSmith-or3pq]

Great tutorial 👌. We've all been there 😀. Thanks . Fact check human

[@seanviper99]

What changes should i be looking out for when the bearing has to be changed

[@kirksmotorrad]

It will start making noise or start getting loose in the front. Sometimes the brakes will rub. Take the wheel off and check them.

[@brahimlahsini1938]

13:03 When i see thate i sayd : "HOOOOOO MYYYYYYYYYY GAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAD" :D

[@rooster3019]

Did you replace the "new" bearing that you had to pull via the inner race? It is quite stressful on those bearing when you have to pull them that way.

[@kirksmotorrad]

Nope. It is still going strong

[@timmit3579]

I have a 2002 R1150R (no ABS) with 14,251 mi.(I believe the wheel bearings are original) How long does the grease in the bearings last before they lose their "lubricity"? At 19 years, should I consider having the bearings replaced? Please respond; I'd like very much your recommendations on this matter. Thank You!

[@kirksmotorrad]

Unless you they are going bad, I would leave them. Mine were getting notchy so I changed them

[@timmit3579]

@@kirksmotorrad OK. Like they say, "If it ain't broke, don't fix it"... I just want" peace of mind" whenever I ride my bike, y'know? I don't ride it much, (which is a shame...) but whenever I ride, I want to ride in confidence that my bike is "up to snuff", "no worries", etc.

[@CarlEmilKjellstrand]

Lol, feels like watching myself :D

[@ravescience2000]

Good job, guys😉keep going, liked👍

[@beemrdon52]

Very entertaining, I rolled on the floor (because that is SO me). So, I have a 1996 K1100LT now with 94,000 miles and have been thinking about wheel bearing replacement, front and rear. Looking at Max BMW parts online, it states that one of the bearings is an ANGULAR BALL BEARING - 25X47X16 @ $63.84. Is that a propriatory design? Also, My model has no dust seals. Thanks for the great how to's.

[@kirksmotorrad]

It is mercifully not a propitiatory design. Looks like you can find them in various places around the net. Here is one www.vxb.com/3005ZZ-Angular-Contact-Double-Row-Bearing-25x47x16-p/3005zz.htm

[@beemrdon52]

Thanx Kirk!!!

[@beemrdon52]

I forgot for a moment, there are no rear wheel bearings....!

[@navyretired230]

I have 80k miles on my K1600. How do I know when the front bearings/seals are ready to be replaced? The wheel spins free, I have always cleaned and greased the seals and shaft at each tire change. I have always changed my own tires.

[@kirksmotorrad]

only when they go bad. It is not mileage based

[@leighjennings8547]

I am doing mine because when I took the brakes off to remove the wheel for a tyre change, there was a rumble when I gave it a spin... always a bad sign. (2008 r1200rt)

[@meltonian11]

GOOD VIDEO - Thanks-

[@DC73rr]

I've made that mistake. Classic! LMFAO

[@donreece655]

What size socket was that you used to drive in the bearing? can you forward the name and source of the bearing puller tool please? great job!!

[@kirksmotorrad]

You can find the tools on my amazon page. www.amazon.com/shop/illinoisbmwriders I dont know which socket size I used

[@teflondave7823]

Sir, we all feel your pain. We have all been there. :D

[@richardt9831]

I'm sorry to admit, but I did laugh - and recall doing a very similar thing more than once :) I hate myself too ;) Is there an easy test we can perform to see if our bearings need replacing? Or is it "when they go you'll know" type of scenario?

[@Jumjum199]

What's the purpose of the little ridges on the spacer?

[@christidmas3995]

They are there to sit in the hub and centralise the spacer.That way the axle fits in snugly.When the axle is tightened it becomes like a solid unit.NEVER leave the spacer out.Destroys the bearings because of unwanted preload.

[@radekbosy1230]

Good job! Where can I buy such a puller

[@kirksmotorrad]

I have one on my amazon page. www.amazon.com/shop/illinoisbmwriders

[@alexrodru]

Thanks I am a profesional mechanic and I learned some things. However the WTF !!! for the bushing (spacer) made me laugh

[@Master-di4di]

Couldn't quite hear your expletives?.lol. Great video.

[@yair1956]

..tnx for the post ..... What are the symptoms of bad Bering ????

[@Tax2Me]

Y Ben-Ad many. You can start with guessing you are putting more fuel to go the same distance, the wheel makes grinding noises, a constant noise goes up and down as you accelerate or slows down, the wheel has a tangential torsion side to side while the forks are not moving. Your owners manual schedule maintenance is your go-to reference for all of these and other cues.

[@johnmalenchek6597]

With wheel off, insert finger into inner race and rotate bearing. Any roughness while rotating is telltale sign. While riding listen carefully for high pitch sounds especially when cornering. Finally expect bearing failures after 50k miles although I am on my 3rd set at 135000 miles on K1600

[@jakewiechman7505]

How often, or when should you replace the bearings?

[@kirksmotorrad]

These should be changed as needed. Just check them every time you take the wheel off.

[@cliff032]

Hahahhahaha The best, Dr LT video, Seriously a very good video

[@stephenhunt6253]

Great instructional video, thank you! Curious why there's only 1 snap ring and 1 seal? What holds/protects the bearing on the other side?

[@kirksmotorrad]

There is a dust cap that works on the right side and is held in my the collar on the axle. Watch my front wheel removal vid for a better view

[@andor8635]

I work as a plant as a mechanic I have seen a difference between bearings. Bearings made in china do not hold out that well. We use them on rollers but re replace them a lot. They are cheap bearings. I have seen BMW use china products as well I purchases a replacement coil for my K1600 which is a new bike its made in China. So just because its a BMW its not german made. I suggest buy bearings from a USA if possible. They are out there .

[@ziadd6874]

hahahahahahahahahahahhaha man this is amazing hahahahaha

[@mhilde7744]

Lmfao......that happens to me all the time. You made me feel better! 👍

[@cm-kl2wx]

Wondering how you knew that you needed to replace the bearings? What symptoms did you experience? Cheers...C

[@skytower309]

Slop in the front tire, or a rumble while rotating the front tire, probably.

[@leighjennings8547]

I am doing mine because when I took the brakes off to remove the wheel for a tyre change, there was a rumble when I gave it a spin... always a bad sign. (2008 r1200rt)

[@75kwbsrdds]

I have an 2013 R1200 GSA oil cooled. are my wheel bearings the same?

[@beemrdon52]

Yes and no.

[@gabidagon]

I’m looking to replace on my 2007 R850R, seems like the bearing are the same but the retainer is like 60x45mm (measured w/o dissembling) anyone knows the exact size?

[@datcubanguy4517]

now that was great and funny!

[@razer850]

when do we change those bearings?

[@kirksmotorrad]

only if they go bad

[@leighjennings8547]

I am doing mine because when I took the brakes off to remove the wheel for a tyre change, there was a rumble when I gave it a spin... always a bad sign. (2008 r1200rt)

[@aluminium83510]

The new bearing is dead

[@kirksmotorrad]

It is still in there and going great.

[@gerhardk98]

That is exactly what I would have done 🤷🏼‍♂️

[@kevinsadler614]

i left an water pump seal out of a 74 suzuki gt 750 i know how you feel !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!