How to True a Motorcycle Wheel
When you ride a motorcycle, it is important to make sure that the wheels are true and round. This ensures that the bike rides smoothly, and that the tires wear evenly. Truing a motorcycle wheel is a relatively simple process, and can be done with basic tools and supplies. In this article, we will explain how to true a motorcycle wheel, and what supplies you will need to do it.
What is Wheel Truing?
Wheel truing is the process of making sure that the wheel is round and true. This helps the bike ride more smoothly and evenly, and helps the tires last longer. A wheel that is out of true will cause the tire to wear unevenly, and may even cause the tire to fail prematurely.
Tools and Supplies You Will Need
To true a motorcycle wheel, you will need the following tools and supplies:
- A truing stand
- A truing gauge
- A spoke wrench
- A flat file
- A spoke key
- A rim strip
- A caliper
Steps to True a Motorcycle Wheel
Step 1: Mount the Wheel on the Truing Stand
The first step is to mount the wheel on the truing stand. Make sure that the wheel is securely mounted, and that the axle is clamped firmly in the stand.
Step 2: Check the Wheel for Bent Spokes
Once the wheel is mounted, use the spoke wrench to check for bent or broken spokes. If you find any bent spokes, use the spoke key to straighten them.
Step 3: Adjust the Spoke Tension
The next step is to adjust the spoke tension. This is done by turning the spoke nipples with the spoke wrench until they are all properly tensioned.
Step 4: Measure the Wheel for Trueness
Once the spoke tension is adjusted, use the truing gauge to measure the wheel for trueness. If the wheel is out of true, use the spoke wrench to adjust the spokes until the wheel is true.
Step 5: Measure the Wheel for Roundness
Once the wheel is true, use the caliper to measure the wheel for roundness. If the wheel is not round, use a flat file to file down any high spots until the wheel is round.
Step 6: Install the Rim Strip
Once the wheel is true and round, install the rim strip. This will help protect the rim and tire from damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Know When the Wheel Is True?
When the wheel is true, the truing gauge will indicate that the wheel is perfectly round and true.
Do I Need a Truing Stand to True a Motorcycle Wheel?
Yes, a truing stand is necessary to properly true a motorcycle wheel.
How Do I Adjust the Spoke Tension?
To adjust the spoke tension, use the spoke wrench to turn the spoke nipples until they are evenly tensioned.
Can I True a Motorcycle Wheel Without a Truing Stand?
No, it is not recommended to true a motorcycle wheel without a truing stand.
How Do I Know When the Wheel Is Round?
When the wheel is round, the caliper will indicate that the wheel is perfectly round.
Do I Need a Rim Strip?
Yes, it is recommended to install a rim strip on the wheel to protect the rim and tire from damage.
What Tools Do I Need to True a Motorcycle Wheel?
You will need a truing stand, a truing gauge, a spoke wrench, a flat file, a spoke key, a rim strip, and a caliper.
Conclusion
Truing a motorcycle wheel is an important part of regular maintenance. It helps keep the bike running smoothly and helps the tires last longer. To true a motorcycle wheel, you will need a truing stand, a truing gauge, a spoke wrench, a flat file, a spoke key, a rim strip, and a caliper. With these tools, you can make sure that your wheel is round and true, and that your bike is running smoothly.