A bike's metal skewer runs through the center of the wheel, holding it in place on the bike frame. Many riders prefer the quick-release style of skewer that allows for easy wheel removal. This employs a small lever you can flip down by hand -- meaning you need no special tools for installation. As an older skewer can become dented or worn, you might need to install a fresh or regreased skewer every so often.
Step 1
Pull your brake lever and unhook the brake cable from the top of your brakes to release and let them hang to the side. Some brakes release using a different method.
Step 2
Flip your bike upside down so it balances on its saddle and handlebars. Or, you can use a bike holder to keep the bike secure.
Step 3
Lift the skewer lever up and out to the side. Hold the cap at the other side of the skewer and turn the lever to the left to loosen. Keep turning until you can slide the wheel out of the hubs and off the bike frame. You might need to release some air from the tire valve to help it clear the brakes and frame.
Step 4
Turn the lever counter-clockwise until the nut cap comes off the other end. Pull the skewer through the center axle of the wheel. Set aside the skewer and pick up the new one if you're replacing it entirely. Remove the cap and slide the springs off the new skewer.
Step 5
Apply some bike grease along the entire length of the new skewer. Slide a spring large-ring first onto the skewer. Insert the new skewer into the hole in the center of the wheel. Put the other spring on the end that sticks out the other side, with the smallest ring closest to the wheel. Hold the cap in place and turn the lever clockwise until it the cap stays on, but the skewer is still loose enough to position on the forks.
Step 6
Position your wheel in the fork or frame grooves. Keep the lever on the left side of the bike, according to BikeTutor. Ensure both sides of the axle are tight into the grooves. Flip the lever up in the open position.
Step 7
Rotate the lever clockwise until it is tight, but not too tight on the forks. Press the lever down. If it won't depress, loosen the lever by a quarter of one turn and try again. Position the lever in line with the fork to avoid it catching on clothes or branches while riding.
Step 8
Hook your brake cable back on to the brakes.
Tips and Warnings
- If your wheel doesn't have a quick-release skewer, follow the instructions as normal, but use a wrench to remove the nuts at the end of the skewer. Sometimes you'll find that the front wheel is quick-release and the rear wheel has a fixed-nut skewer. Pressing the lever down shouldn't hurt, but it should leave a brief imprint in your hand.
- Don't tighten the lever too much or it can damage your forks or wheel. Look for the word "closed" on the outside of the lever to confirm that your lever is shut. Check that the wheel is on straight by spinning it and looking at the brake pads. Any wobble or rub might mean you have installed the wheel and tire at an angle. Your bike might have unusual forks or skewer design, Consult your bike manual to be sure on the installation.
Things You'll Need
- Bike grease
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