Motorcycle Repair: 1986 honda elite 80, honda elite 80, wheel bearings

Question
hey chris,
i just came into a 1986 honda elite 80. i got the bike to start up, but im having some problems with the front wheel.  the bike was sitting in the rain for the last few months, and now the front wheel is impossible to turn freely. i took it apart and put it back together to no success. as soon as i tightened up the bolt, it went back to sticking like it was before. im not sure if its the brakes sticking, or what.  do you have any tips? thanks, stephen

Answer
Hi Stephen.

It sounds like you have a possible number of problems.

Are the wheel bearings frozen?  You may want to check those as well as greasing the axle.

Have you checked the brake caliper assembly?  If it is frozen, then that would be the problem.  However, if you can get the wheel off and on, then it is not likely to be the problem.  If the brakes are frozen in the locked position, then you would not be able to remove the wheel, unless (and this is the last possibility) the brake disc is warped badly.

Check those and see what you find.

Good luck and ride safe.
FALCON