Many motorcycle repair jobs are actually much easier than they look. Removing wheels from any motorcycle is one of those. Wheel removal on a Triumph is simple and straightforward. Removing the rear wheel requires a little more work because rear drives must always be disengaged before the wheel can be removed. Modern motorcycles use drive shafts, chains and belts to transmit power from the engine to the rear wheel. But Triumphs, from the first model in 1905 to the 2011 Bonneville, have always used chains.
Lift the motorcycle off the ground with a motorcycle jack. Both the motorcycle and the jack must be stable.
Remove the saddlebags and the pillion pad. Remove the caliper bolts from motorcycles equipped with disc brakes. Mark the exact position of the chain adjustor, using masking tape and a pencil. Loosen the axle nut. Remove any pinch bolts. Slide the wheel forward and remove the chain. Tap out the axle using a rubber mallet and a block of wood.
Remove the rear wheel by sliding it out of the swingarm. Place all spacers, bearings, nuts and washers on a clean rag. Inspect all loose parts for wear. Clean and lubricate all loose parts.
Move to the front wheel and remove the speedometer cable. Examine the speedometer hub. Make sure that it is immobilized. If the front axle has end caps, remove them carefully. Remove any pinch bolts.
Remove the front wheel. Tap out the front axle using a rubber mallet and a block of wood. Catch the front wheel as it drops when the axle is removed. Place all loose parts on a clean rag and inspect them for wear.
