How to remove and install your bike’s wheels

Whether you’re fixing a puncture or transporting your bike, knowing how to remove and refit your wheels is essential. Here’s how to do it safely for different setups:

Thru-axle wheels

1. Use the correct Allen key (normally 6mm) to loosen the thru-axle.

2. Slide the axle out and remove the wheel.

3. To reinstall, refit the wheel, insert the axle, and tighten to the torque printed on the thru-axle.

   • Tip: Always torque correctly. Under- or over-tightening can cause issues.

Quick release wheels

1. Open the quick release lever and loosen the skewer.

2. If you have rim brakes, release the caliper to clear the tyre.

3. Remove the wheel.

4. To reinstall, place the wheel back in the dropouts, close the brake caliper, and secure the quick release lever.

   • Important: The brake won’t work if the lever is left open.

X35 eBike rear wheel

1. Using an 8mm Allen key, loosen the two axle nuts completely.

2. Remove the dropout washers.

3. Carefully disconnect the motor cable on the non-drive chainstay. Pull only on the connectors, never the cable itself.

4. Remove the wheel.

5. To reinstall:

   • Reconnect the motor cable, lining up the arrows until you feel it click.

   • Fit the cable back into the guides.

   • Place the wheel into the dropouts, making sure the washers’ raised lips sit in the frame cut-outs.

   • Tighten the axle nuts to 18–23Nm with a torque wrench.

X20 eBike rear wheel

1. Loosen and remove the thru-axle.

2. Drop the wheel out of the frame.

3. When reinstalling, ensure the wheel is fitted in the correct orientation so the motor can receive power from the battery cable.

4. Refit the axle and tighten to the specified torque.

With a little practice, removing and reinstalling your wheels becomes second nature, whether on a standard bike or an eBike.