Here's a step-by-step guide to replacing a cross-country mountain bike wheelset:
Necessary material :
1. New cross-country mountain bike wheelset
2. Adjustable wrench or Allen key
3. Bicycle pump (if the new wheels have tubeless tires)
4. Tire lever (if necessary)
5. Screwdriver (if necessary)
6. Bleeding kit (if the brakes are hydraulic)
7. Torque wrench (for tightening components to precise specifications)
Steps :
1. Secure your MTB:
- Place your bike on a suitable stand for easy access to the wheels.
2. Remove the front wheel:
- Use an adjustable wrench or Allen key to unscrew the front wheel axle.
- Remove the wheel from the bike.
3. Release the brakes (if necessary):
- If you have disc brakes, be sure to loosen the brake calipers to make removing the wheel easier.
- If you have V-brakes, loosen the brake cables or disassemble them depending on the brake type.
4. Remove the brake disc (if necessary):
- If your new wheelset does not have a brake disc installed, remove it from the old wheel using an Allen key.
5. Remove the rear wheel (if necessary):
- Repeat the process for the rear wheel using the appropriate adjustable wrench or Allen key.
6. Install the new wheelset:
- Insert the new front wheel into the fork ensuring that the axle is correctly aligned.
- Tighten the front wheel axle using the adjustable wrench or Allen key. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's recommended tightening torque.
7. Reinstall the brake rotor (if necessary):
- If your new wheelset does not include a brake disc, reinstall the one from the old wheel. Make sure it is properly centered.
8. Remove the tire (if necessary):
- If you are upgrading to a tubeless system, remove the tire from the old wheel using a tire lever.
9. Install the tire on the new wheel (if necessary):
- If you have tubeless tires, mount them on the new rims. Make sure the tire is positioned correctly and use a bicycle pump to inflate the tire to the recommended pressure.
10. Repeat steps 6 to 9 for the rear wheel:
- Install the new rear wheel, making sure to align the axle correctly. Tighten the axle with the adjustable wrench or Allen wrench, and reinstall the brake rotor and tire as needed.
11. Check free rotation:
- Make sure the wheels rotate freely and that there is no abnormal friction. Adjust the tightness of the nuts if necessary.
12. Adjust the brakes (if necessary):
- Readjust the brake calipers to fit the new wheels. Make sure the brakes are working properly before taking the bike for a ride.
13. Take a test drive:
- Before heading out on a full ride, take a short test ride to make sure the new wheels are properly installed and functioning properly.
If you are not comfortable with the process, it is recommended to consult a professional at a bike shop for installation.