Steps for Replacing Wheels on Inline Skates

The wheels are the elements of roller blades that experience the fastest wear. Typically, replacing the wheels will rejuvenate your skates to feel almost new. Fortunately, you can replace the wheels on your own – simply follow this guide and you'll soon be back rolling.

Required tool: Allen key or a skate-tool (Some skates may require two tools, one for each side of the wheel).

Utilise the tool on the bolt securing the axle. Occasionally, you might need two tools or Allen keys, as shown in the picture above. Once the bolt is loosened, you can remove the axle and screw. Additionally, take the old wheel off the frame.

This is an opportune moment to clean the frame and the bearings. We suggest wiping away dirt with a dry cloth from the area where the wheel was positioned.

Employ a skate-tool or an Allen key to detach the bearings from the old wheel. If you plan to reuse the bearings in the new wheel, ensure all dirt is wiped off with a dry cloth. You might also consider cleaning your bearings.

Read more: How to clean your bearings

Aside from the bearings, a spacer is also located within the wheel. This spacer must be utilised in the new wheel (Note that some skates come with 2- or 3-part spacers).

Install the bearings and spacer into the new wheel. The bearings ought to fit snugly. (If the bearings lack a snug fit, wheel play will occur, which should be avoided. Seek out superior wheels with a tighter hub)

The new wheel is primed for installation. Position the new wheel at the vacant slot in the frame.

Insert an axle through the wheel and place the screw. Tighten the screw using the skate-tool. The screw should be fastened quite firmly, though not so firmly that the wheel cannot turn freely.

Repeat this process for all the wheels. New wheels generally possess a larger diameter compared to the worn ones. Thus, you may find yourself skating faster, so exercise caution during your first use after a wheel replacement.