Kick scooters can be pretty durable, especially if you take care of them. Time takes its toll though and eventually things need to be replaced. Spending endless hours on sidewalks and blacktop can be a nightmare on wheels and eventually they will need to be replaced.
You’ll know when the wheels become cracked and your usual smooth ride becomes bumpy and unbearable or the wheels refuse to move easily.
Taking the Wheels Off
The first step is to purchase the new wheels and bearings from a local scooter or hobby store. It usually comes with the wrench required to take off and put on the wheels. Remove the wheels and grab the Allen wrench. Grip the front wheel of the scooter securely and place the Allen wrench in the front left axle bolt. Loosen the bolt and remove it. Place the wrench into the right axle bolt, loosen it and remove the bolt.
Pull the front wheel and it should come off with ease. If it’s been on there a while, then it may take some additional pressure to dislodge it.
Replacing the Wheels
The wheel has two bearings and a spacer that lets the wheel move freely. Take the old wheel and use the Allen wrench to pop out the metal bearing. This should allow you to reach in and pull out the spacer. Turn the wheel over and do the same thing to the other bearing.
When finished, you should have two bearings and a spacer. Grab the new wheel and take one of the bearings and place it into the wheel. Press hard so the bearing fits securely into the wheel. Turn the wheel over and put in the spacer. With the spacer in place, the final bearing can be put into its spot.
Put the new wheel into its spot on the scooter and install the right and left axle bolts. It’s basically doing the opposite of when you took them off. The bolts must be placed in the right position and do not force them.
They should be tightened just enough to allow the wheel not to wobble, but not too tight so that the wheel can’t move freely.
With the front wheel replaced, do the same procedure for removing and replacing the rear wheel. Once the wheels are in place, you’re ready to go. Check out our Scooter Rizer to keep your kick scooter safe and sound.