Motorcycle front and rear wheel hub

Types of motorcycle front and rear wheel hubs

A motorcycle front and rear wheel hub is an important part of the wheel that connects it to the axle. Without the hubs, the wheels would not be able to rotate freely. The design and material of motorcycle hubs vary, and they come in different types, which are as follows.

• Based on the number of spokes:

  Two types of motorcycle wheel hubs are categorized based on the number of spokes they have. These are the 4-spoke hubs and the 5-spoke hubs. The 4-spoke motorcycle wheel hub has four evenly spaced arms that connect the rim to the center of the hub. The wheel is strong and sturdy, making it a great choice for heavy-duty use. This is why 4-spoke hubs are popular in the front wheels of choppers and cruiser motorcycles. On the other hand, the 5-spoke motorcycle wheel hub has five arms. It has a simpler design, and the number of spokes can vary depending on the model. 5-spoke hubs are often found in sportbikes and modern street motorcycles. The wheel hubs are lightweight and provide better handling and acceleration.

• Based on the type of disc brake mounting:

  Some motorcycle front and rear wheel hubs can be categorized based on the type of disc brake mounting. These are the radial-mount hubs and the conventional-mount hubs. The radial-mount motorcycle wheel hub is designed to accommodate brake calipers that are mounted in a radial configuration. This mounting style offers improved braking performance and is often found in high-performance bikes. On the other hand, the conventional-mount motorcycle wheel hub is designed for brake calipers mounted in a traditional inline configuration. This is the most common brake caliper mounting style, which is widely used in older bikes and entry-level motorcycles.

• Based on the material:

  Some motorcycle front and rear wheel hubs can be categorized based on the type of material. These are aluminum hubs, steel hubs, and magnesium hubs. Aluminum motorcycle wheel hubs are lightweight and resistant to corrosion. This makes them a popular choice for modern street and off-road bikes. Steel hubs, on the other hand, are known for their strength and durability. As such, they can handle heavy loads and are less likely to get damaged. This is why steel hubs are often found in cruiser motorcycles and chopper bikes. On the other hand, magnesium motorcycle wheel hubs are very rare. This is because magnesium hubs are more expensive than aluminum and steel hubs. Nonetheless, magnesium hubs offer superior strength-to-weight ratio compared to aluminum and steel hubs.

Specification and maintenance of motorcycle front and rear wheel hubs

• Regular inspection

  Inspect the wheel hubs for any signs of wear, damage, or looseness. Check the bearings, seals, and mounting bolts for any issues. Also, inspect the front motorcycle wheels for cracks, warping, or damage. Look for uneven wear patterns that could indicate alignment issues or bearing problems.

• Regular lubrication

  Use quality grease to lubricate the bearings and other moving parts of the wheel hubs. This reduces friction and prevents premature wear. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the type of lubricant and the frequency of lubrication. Use waterproof grease to protect the front and rear wheel hubs from moisture and contaminants. This helps maintain optimal performance and longevity of the wheel hubs.

• Proper torque

  Use a torque wrench to tighten the bolts and nuts of the wheel hubs to the specified torque. Over-tightening or under-tightening can cause damage or failure of the wheel hubs. Follow the manufacturer's torque specifications for critical fasteners, such as hub-mounted bolts and brake rotor screws. Use a star pattern or crisscross sequence to ensure even torque and avoid distortion of the wheel hubs.

• Seal and dust cover inspection

  Inspect the seals and dust covers of the wheel hubs for any cracks, tears, or damage. Replace them if worn or damaged to keep the bearings and other internal components clean and lubricated. Ensure that the seals are correctly installed and seated to prevent leaks and contamination. Check the dust covers for proper fit and coverage to shield the bearings from dirt and debris.

• Alignment and truing

  Ensure that the motorcycle front wheel hubs are correctly aligned and centered. Misalignment can cause uneven wear and premature failure of the wheel hubs and other components. Use a dial gauge or spoke tension meter to check the trueness and tension of the wheel hubs. Adjust as needed to maintain optimal performance and safety of the motorcycle.

How to Choose Motocyclefront and rear wheel hubs

Business buyers should consider the following factors when choosing motorcycle front and rear wheel hubs for resale or distribution.

• Riding Style and Needs

  Selecting the riding style and needs is one of the most important factors to be considered. For high-performance sports bikes, lightweight hubs with quick acceleration and braking are needed. Adventure bikes require durable hubs for on and off-road use. Custom cruisers can use hubs that match the bike's aesthetics, while touring bikes need reliable hubs for long-distance travel.

• Material and Construction

  Material and construction are also important factors to be considered. Hubs made of aluminium are lightweight and corrosion resistant, making them a good choice for many riders. Steel hubs are stronger and can withstand heavy loads, which is important for off-road riding. The hub's bearings and seals should be of high quality to reduce maintenance needs and increase lifespan.

• Compatibility

  Compatibility is also a key factor to be considered when choosing a motorcycle front and rear wheel hub. It is very important to ensure that the hub matches the motorcycle's make, model, and year. This guarantees maximum performance and safety. Adapters and spacers can be used to improve compatibility in some cases.

• Quality and Reliability

  Quality and reliability are also important factors to be considered. It is recommended to choose well-known brands that are trusted. This ensures that the hubs are made to high standards and have passed quality tests. Reviews from other riders can provide insights into the hub's performance over time.

• Price

  The price is also an important factor to be considered when choosing a motorcycle front and rear wheel hub. Hubs are available in a wide range of prices, from budget-friendly to premium. It is important to find a balance between quality and cost. Sometimes, spending a little more on a reliable hub saves money in the long run.

• Installation and Maintenance

  Installation and maintenance are also important factors to be considered. Some hubs are easier to install than others. This can save on mechanic fees if the rider installs it by himself. The hubs should also be simple to maintain. This means that the rider can perform regular maintenance without any hassle.

• Aesthetics

  Aesthetics is also an important factor to be considered. The hubs are available in different styles and colors. This allows the rider to choose one that fits the look of his bike. Some hubs can be customized to stand out.

How to DIY and replace Motocycle front and rear wheel hubs

Replacing a motorcycle wheel hub can be a challenging task, but it can be done with the right tools and mechanical skills. The tools needed to replace a motorcycle front and rear wheel hub are as follows:

• Socket wrench set
• Torque wrench
• Allen key set
• Impact wrench
• Lube

Lubricant

• New wheel bearings
• New wheel hub assembly
• New wheel bolts

Follow the steps below to replace a motorcycle front and rear wheel hub:

• Put the motorcycle on a paddock stand and make sure it is stable on the stand.
• Loosen the bolts holding the front fender or rear hugger, depending on the wheel being replaced.
• Use the socket wrench to remove the bolts holding the brake caliper and set it aside.
• For the front wheel, remove the mud guard bolts and set it aside. For the rear wheel, remove the chain guard bolts and set it aside.
• Use the socket wrench to remove the axle nut and push the axle out of the wheel hub.
• Remove the brake disc from the wheel hub using the socket wrench.
• Use the Allen key to remove the wheel hub bolts and then remove the old wheel hub.
• Clean the area and apply grease to the wheel hub bearing recesses.
• Fit the new wheel hub into place and tighten the bolts to the specified torque using a torque wrench.
• Reassemble the brake disc, axle, brake caliper, mud guard or chain guard, and front fender or rear hugger.
• Once done, spin the wheel to make sure it is moving freely.

Q and A

Q1: What is the difference between a solid and a spoked wheel hub?

A1: A solid wheel hub has a single, solid construction, which provides strength and stability. It is commonly used on motorcycles designed for speed and performance. On the other hand, a spoked wheel hub has a wheel where the rim is connected to the hub using several spokes. This design allows for flexibility and better handling on rough terrain, making it suitable for off-road motorcycles.

Q2: What materials are commonly used in motorcycle front and rear wheel hubs, and what are their advantages?

A2: Motorcycle front and rear wheel hubs are typically made from aluminum, steel, or magnesium. Aluminum hubs are lightweight and resistant to corrosion, making them a popular choice for many motorcycles. Steel hubs are known for their strength and durability, making them suitable for heavy-duty use. Magnesium hubs are extremely lightweight, which can improve the overall performance and handling of the motorcycle.

Q3: Can wheel hubs be upgraded to improve a motorcycle's performance?

A3: Yes, upgrading wheel hubs can enhance a motorcycle's performance. Lighter hubs reduce the unsprung weight of the motorcycle, improving acceleration, braking, and overall handling. Additionally, stronger hubs provide better support for the wheels, resulting in improved stability and durability, especially for off-road motorcycles.

Q4: How can one choose the right wheel hub for a motorcycle?

A4: Selecting the appropriate motorcycle front and rear wheel hub is crucial for compatibility, performance, and durability. Consider the material, size, and design of the wheel hub. Ensure it matches the specifications of the motorcycle. Additionally, choose a wheel hub that suits the riding style and conditions, whether on-road or off-road.