How do I know if my free hub is worn out?
Check the freehub for wear to see if it needs replacing or just cleaning and relubing. To do this, firmly grab the splined body and give it a wiggle. If it moves more than a couple of millimetres side to side, replace it.
How long do free hubs last?
I had them last anywhere between two weeks and three months (170 miles per week). Eventually I gave up and bought a Shimano R500 rear wheel for £50 and six months later the freehub is still fine. If you’re degreasing the cassette mounted to the bike, you’re probably washing the grease out of the free hub.
Should you grease freehub pawls?
When the bike is pedaled, the pawls lock onto the ratcheting teeth, and the freehub bearings take very little stress. Because of this, bicycle grease is typically not required inside a freehub. Most manufacturers recommend liquid lubricant for the inside of the freehub.
How do I know if my bike hub is worn?
Worn out or dry bearings will feel rough, metallic and dry. Sometimes they’re so dry that if you pull your finger fast across the axle you can make the axle keep spinning because there’s no grease inside the bearings to slow it down.
When should I replace my free hub?
The small ball bearings are available as replacement parts. However, if the bearings are worn out and require replacing, it is very likely the entire freehub is needing replacement.
How many miles do bike hubs last?
Bike wheel bearings will last for 8,000 miles on average. This can vary to as high as 18,000 miles and as low as 5,000 miles depending on the surface on which they are ridden and the rider’s weight. Notably, sealed cartridge bearings typically last longer than unsealed ball bearings due to separation from the elements.
Should you grease freehub?
How do I get rid of freehub body?
Freehub Removal Once your cassette and bearings are removed, slide the 10mm allen key into the center of the hub, and loosen it by turning counter-clockwise. If the freehub is very tight and difficult to loosen you can get more leverage by mounting the allen key in a vice clamp and sliding the wheel down onto it.