Mount A Bike’s Front Wheel With Wheel Nuts

Introduction

There are two types of fixing for a front wheel. Hexagonal nuts threaded on a solid axle, or a quick-release system that runs through the centre of a hollow axle.If the wheel has a hub brake or a hub generator there are some extra steps.

Step 1

Replace The Front Wheel

Lower the bike onto the front wheel.

Step 2

Attach The Front Wheel

Facing the bike from the front with your head on the bike’s centreline check the front wheel is centred in the frame. Check the position of any washers and tighten the nuts on each side by hand. Use the spanner to half-tighten each nut in turn. Check the wheel is still centred then fully tighten each side in turn.

Step 3

Brakes

Close the brakes and check they’re working.

Pro Tip

Lock the front wheel nuts with the tool – or one the same length as – the one you carry for fixing punctures. A long workshop tool may lock it too tight for you to open with your ‘carry-along’ spanner.