Rear Wheel Bicycle Rear Axle Assembly Diagram
Riding a bicycle is a very popular activity around the world. Bicycles come in different shapes and sizes, but they all have the same basic components. One of the most important components of a bicycle is its rear wheel assembly. The rear wheel assembly consists of several different parts, with the rear axle being one of the most important.
What is a Rear Axle?
The rear axle is a shaft that runs through the center of the rear wheel. It connects the wheel to the bike frame and allows the wheel to rotate freely. The rear axle also supports the weight of the bike and the rider.
Parts of a Rear Axle Assembly
A rear axle assembly consists of several different parts, including the axle, the hub, the bearings, the cones, and the quick-release skewer (if applicable).
Axle
The axle is the main component of the rear axle assembly. It is a long, thin, metal rod that runs through the center of the hub and attaches to the bike frame. The axle is usually made of steel or aluminum and is designed to be lightweight but strong enough to support the weight of the bike and the rider.
Hub
The hub is the part of the rear wheel that the axle runs through. It consists of two flanges that are connected by a cylinder. The spokes of the wheel attach to the hub, which allows the wheel to rotate freely around the axle.
Bearings
The bearings are small metal balls that are housed inside the hub. They allow the hub to rotate smoothly around the axle. Bearings can wear out over time and need to be replaced periodically.
Cones
The cones are small metal pieces that sit on either side of the hub and hold the bearings in place. They are threaded and can be adjusted to fine-tune the smoothness of the wheel's rotation.
Quick-Release Skewer
The quick-release skewer is a metal rod that runs through the center of the axle and allows for easy removal and installation of the rear wheel. It is commonly found on road bikes and some mountain bikes.
Assembly Diagram
The following diagram shows the different parts of a rear axle assembly and how they fit together:
Step 1: Install the Axle
The first step in assembling a rear axle is to insert the axle through the center of the hub. Make sure the axle is inserted all the way through the hub and is flush with the ends of the hub.
Step 2: Install the Bearings
The next step is to install the bearings. Place the bearings inside the hub, making sure they are evenly spaced around the axle. Use a cone wrench to tighten the cones on either side of the hub to hold the bearings in place.
Step 3: Adjust the Cones
Use a cone wrench to adjust the cones on either side of the hub to fine-tune the smoothness of the wheel's rotation. It is important to adjust the cones so that the wheel rotates smoothly without any play or wobbling.
Step 4: Install the Quick-Release Skewer (if applicable)
If your bike has a quick-release skewer, insert it through the center of the axle and tighten it by turning the lever. Make sure the skewer is tight enough to hold the wheel securely in place.
Step 5: Install the Wheel
The final step in assembling a rear axle is to install the wheel onto the bike frame. Insert the axle into the dropouts on the frame and tighten the nuts or quick-release skewer to hold the wheel securely in place.
Conclusion
A rear axle assembly is an important part of a bicycle's rear wheel. It consists of several different parts, including the axle, the hub, the bearings, the cones, and the quick-release skewer (if applicable). By following the steps outlined in this article, you can assemble a rear axle and ensure that your bike's rear wheel rotates smoothly and securely.