Remove 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

Detach The front Wheel

If the bike has rim brakes open the brake.

Step 2

- Remove A Bike’s Front Wheel With Wheel Nuts

Select a tool that fits the nuts exactly. They are most likely to be 15mm or 13mm. Note the position of any washers between the nuts and the fork. Turn one nut a few degrees to check it can move. Unscrew the nut on the opposite side of the front wheel fully. Return to the first nut and loosen it.

Pro Tip

It’s not usually necessary to remove the nuts from the axle completely. This is particularly important when you’re dealing with a puncture ‘in the wild’ where the nuts may get lost.