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Step 1 - Remove the old rear wheel

In this step we remove the old rear wheel and prepare for the motor wheel.

Overview​

┌────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
│  1.1  Prepare the bike and turn it upside down    │
│  1.2  Shift up to the highest gear                 │
│  1.3  Loosen the wheel nuts                        │
│  1.4  Lift out the rear wheel                      │
│  1.5  Remove the brake disc (if applicable)       │
└────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘

Estimated time: 10 to 15 minutes

Step 1.1 - Turn the bike upside down​

With the handlebar components already moved out of the way (see preparation), carefully turn the bike upside down so it rests on the saddle and handlebars.

Protect the bike

Make sure the surface protects the saddle and handlebars from scratches. Use cardboard or a blanket.

Step 1.2 - Shift into the highest gear​

Before loosening the wheel, shift up to the highest gear (smallest sprocket on the cassette/freewheel). This makes it easier to:

  • Remove the wheel
  • Install the new motor wheel

How to do it:

  1. Spin the pedals by hand
  2. Shift with the gear lever until the chain is on the smallest sprocket
  3. Check that the chain sits firmly

Step 1.3 - Loosen the wheel nuts​

Depending on your bike, you will have one of the following:

Quick release​

  1. Open the quick release lever
  2. Loosen any lock nut on the other side
  3. Hold the lever still and turn the nut loose a few turns

Axle nut (traditional)​

  1. Use a 15 mm or 17 mm wrench
  2. Loosen the nuts on both sides
  3. You do not need to remove them completely

Thru-axle​

  1. Use the correct hex key
  2. Unscrew the axle completely
  3. Pull the axle out of the frame

Step 1.4 - Lift out the rear wheel​

Now the rear wheel should be lifted out of the frame. This takes a little technique:

Step by step​

  1. Hold the rear derailleur out of the way

    • Gently push the rear derailleur backward with one hand
    • This creates space for the wheel to come out

  2. Lift out the wheel

    • With the other hand, lift the wheel up and forward
    • The chain should slide off the cassette/freewheel

  3. Guide the wheel out

    • Keep lifting until the wheel is completely free of the frame
    • Let the chain hang loose
Be careful

Do not let go of the rear derailleur suddenly. It can snap against the frame and be damaged.

Step 1.5 - Remove the brake disc (if applicable)​

When do you need this?

Only if your old rear wheel has a bolt-on brake disc (6-bolt system). If your brake disc is riveted and fixed in place, skip this step and use a new brake disc.

Prepare for removal​

  1. Lay the wheel flat with the brake disc facing up
  2. Use a clean surface to protect the cassette/freewheel

Remove the brake disc screws​

  1. Identify the screw type - usually Torx T25
  2. Loosen the screws - work in a star pattern for even release:
      ①
    ⑥   ②
    ⑤   ③
      ④
  1. Remove all screws completely
  2. Lift off the brake disc carefully

Store the screws​

Save the screws

Put the old brake disc screws in a bag or small container. You may want them as spares.

Common problems​

The wheel is stuck​

  • Check that the nuts are fully loosened
  • Tap the axle gently with a rubber mallet
  • Make sure the brake caliper is not pinching the brake disc

The chain gets stuck​

  • Make sure you are in the highest gear
  • Hold the rear derailleur out of the way far enough
  • Lift the wheel up, not only backward

The brake disc screws are tight​

  • Use the correct tool size
  • Apply inward pressure while turning
  • If needed, use penetrating oil and wait 10 minutes

Result​

After this step you should have:

  • The bike upside down on a protected surface
  • The old rear wheel removed
  • The brake disc removed and ready for the motor wheel
  • The chain hanging freely

➡️ Next step: Step 2 - Mount brake disc and freewheel