How To Remove And Install The Rear Wheel On Your 97-01 Honda CR250
The Tools You Will Need
- 27mm Socket with a breaker bar
- Honda OEM block of wood
- 13mm Wrench for chain adjustment jam nut
- 10mm Wrench for chain adjustment bolt
- Torque Wrench
- Sharpie Marker
Pre-Service Notes
- Start with your bike on a stand with the rear wheel off the ground.
- Always start and end with the brake side bearing
- I recommend opening the Service & Torque Specs in a new tab for easy reference.
- If you need parts and tools, make sure to buy them here!
- Pictures with captions are after the steps below.
- If you need any help don’t hesitate to ask!
Rear Wheel Removal
- Step 1: Count the exposed threads on the chain adjuster bolt and mark it on the swingarm. While this is not precise, it will give you a ballpark when you reinstall your wheel.
- Step 2: Back out the chain adjustment jam nuts a few turns, then turn in the adjuster bolts a few turns to relieve pressure on the axle blocks.
- Step 3: Loosen and remove the axle nut and washer.
- Step 4: Lift your tire, knock the axle into the swingarm with your block of wood.
- Step 5: Pull the axle out.
- Do not use a hammer; you will damage the threads.
- Step 6: Push your wheel forward to slack the chain, then starting with the top, work the chain off the sprocket.
- Step 7: Remove the rear wheel.
- Make sure to keep track of your spacers, axle block, washer, and axle nut.
Related: Change your tire the right way!
Rear Wheel Installation
- Step 8: Install the wheel spacers. The larger of the two spacers go on the sprocket side of the wheel.
- Step 9: Align your wheel, and starting at the bottom, work the chain onto the sprocket.
- Step 10: Lift your wheel and slide the axle through.
- Step 11: Install the axle block with the notch facing up.
- Step 12: Install the washer and axle nut, hand tight.
- Step 13: Return the chain tensioner to the marked position. While you’re here, double-check the chain tension.
- Step 14: Match the adjuster on the other side.
- Match the tension bolts as close as you can. A misaligned rear wheel will cause premature wear on the chain, sprocket, swingarm, hub, and is the number one cause of bearing failure, all of which cost money to fix.
- Step 15: Once your tensioners are set, push the axle blocks up to the adjustment bolts, and torque the axle nut to manufacturer specs.
- 1997 – 69 ft-lbs
- 1998-1999 – 80 ft-lbs
- 2000-2001 – 94 ft-lbs
Remember to take your time, and your bearing replacement will be easy.
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Keep Your ’97-’01 CR250 Running Right!
