Remove A Bike Freewheel

Introduction

An old style screw-on bike freewheel may need to be removed to service the hub bearing, to fit a new spoke on the right side of the hub or because the cogs, or the freewheel mechanism are worn out.

Step 1

Tools - Remove A Bike Freewheel

Tools

Grabbing the cogs is no good as you they spin on the bike freewheel without turning the central mechanism that is screwed on the hub shell. You need a special key to fit into notches or splines on the bike freewheel to turn it.

Step 2

Remove - Remove A Bike Freewheel

Remove

Remove the rearwheel from the bike to gain access to the bike freewheel.

Step 3

- Remove A Bike Freewheel

Take out the quick-release skewer or remove the axle-nut on the drive side.

Step 4

- Remove A Bike Freewheel

Slide the freewheel-remover onto the axle and into the notches or splines on the bike freewheel.

Step 5

- Remove A Bike Freewheel

Replace the nut or the skewer to lock the key in place.

Step 6

- Remove A Bike Freewheel

Use a long adjustable spanner to turn the key anti-clockwise.

Step 7

- Remove A Bike Freewheel

Once the bike freewheel is moving remove the skewer or nut to allow it to unscrew all the way.

Step 8

- Remove A Bike Freewheel

If you have a bench vice you can clamp the key in it, drop the wheel gently onto the key then turn the wheel to unscrew the bike freewheel.