Aligning the rear wheel in a motorcycle is a crucial maintenance task that helps to ensure optimal performance of the motorcycle. I also ensure stability of the motorcycle and safety while riding on the road. Proper alignment ensures that the rear wheel is perfectly centered and aligned with the frame, front wheel, chain, and other components. So, here we will guide you through the step-by-step process of how to align the rear wheel of a motorcycle.

How To Align The Rear Wheel Of A Motorcycle?

Aligning the rear wheel of a motorcycle is a relatively straightforward process that can be done by following a few simple steps. Aligning the rear wheel correctly improves the efficiency of the motorcycle and extends its lifespan. In contrast, if the rear wheel is not properly aligned it will cause uneven tire wear, inferior handling, and possibly dangerous conditions. So, here we’re describing the step-by-step process for the maintenance job of the rear wheel of a motorcycle.

Preparations Before You Start

First of all, before beginning the alignment process, one should have all the tools required for disassembling and reassembling the wheels. Place the motorcycle in a straight line on a horizontal surface and then set out to work. Hence, lift the rear wheel with a center stand, pit stand, or liftstand.

It will give you room to make some adjustments to the back wheel and see that it fits well into the other components of the bike. Nevertheless, one may require some socket wrenches, an adjustable wrench, a torque wrench, the motorcycle’s owner’s manual, a measuring tape or alignment tool, and the appropriate shop towel.

Measuring The Alignment

After the primary preparation of getting your motorcycle standing on a stand, you need to measure the distance between the rear axle and fixed reference points on both sides of the motorcycle. The reference points could be the swingarm pivot bolts, rear axle adjusters, or other designated marks indicated in your motorcycle's owner's manual. The measurements can be taken using a tape measure or an alignment tool, and these measurements on both sides should be equal for proper alignment.

Make Adjustments And Align The Wheel

After taking the measurements of the rear wheel compare the measurements on both sides. If the measurements indicate misalignment or they are not equal, adjustments need to be made. In such cases, you should note the difference between the measurements for adjustment purposes.

Then, to make adjustments and align the rear wheel properly, loosen the axle nut and locknuts using an adjustable wrench or socket wrench. Ensure that both sides are loosened equally, and then you can make adjustments to the rear wheel's position.

To adjust the rear wheel, with the rear axle nut loosened, gently push or pull the wheel in the required direction to align it properly. Typically, there are axle adjusters on both sides of the swingarm that need to be adjusted to align the rear wheel properly. If you encounter any complexity, you can refer to your motorcycle's owner's manual for specific instructions on how to adjust the rear axle.

Once the alignment is corrected, recheck the measurements, make any necessary fine adjustments if required, and then tighten the rear axle nut to the manufacturer-recommended torque specification. Use a torque wrench for accurate tightening of all components.

Additional Considerations

When aligning the rear wheel of a motorcycle, it is also necessary to pay extra attention to some additional things, like especially the chain tension. While aligning the rear wheel, it is essential to check the tension of the motorcycle's chain drive. Do ensure that the drive chain is properly tensioned according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Therefore, adjust the chain tension if necessary, using the chain adjusters on the swingarm.

So, guys, this is the step-by-step process on how to align the rear wheel of a motorcycle. By following the steps outlined above, you can effectively align your motorcycle's rear wheel. And keep in mind that, always follow your motorcycle's owner's manual for specific instructions and torque values. However, regularly checking and maintaining the alignment of your motorcycle's rear wheel it will ensure you a smoother ride, improved tire wear, and enhanced overall handling, that’s it.