Whenever you replace a wheel spindle make sure it’s greased. As Japanese bikes rarely received lubrication to their axles when new they have a real propensity to corrosion weld themselves to the inner bearing race. Removing a seized spindle is time consuming at best and at worse may even see the forks or swinging arm being scrapped. It’s easy to do so make it second nature on your classic motorcycle. Degrease, clean with a 3M pad, wipe clean to remove any detritus then lubricate with quality grease. Refit and relax safe in the knowledge it’ll come apart easily next time.
Words/photos: Steve Cooper
