Wheel bearings? How hard to replace?

[sak1782]

Is this something the average competent guy with mechanical skill can do himself, or should it be done by the dealer/bike shop?

[sak1782]

I only ask, because all the other bikes ive owned, have never had issues with them, and it seems that buells do. I kinda want to swap mine out before I have an issue out in the twisties somewhere.

[wolfo68]

look in the do it yourself section, someone did a write up within the past week on this

[McMurphy]

Someone posted a how-to on the front bearing about a week ago or so. Seemed easy enough, planning on doing my own.

[wolfo68]

lol nice

[uly luigi]

It was me that posted the front wheel bearing pics, it is the most difficult because of the brake rotor, but the rears are the same method of removal and installation, BFH and a good sharp punch, to drive out the old ones, and a relatively large and soft material to drive the new ones back in, oh yeh, lots of patience and a fair amount of time for the first time you do it

[Bossanova]

Getting the bearings out is the hardest part. Do yourself a favor and invest in one of these sets:
Blind bearing puller from Harbor Freight
http://www.buellxb.com/buell_images/5956_20110914225850_L.jpg

Installing is easier but something like this is very helpful:
You can make one from threaded rod or they are on ebay.
http://www.buellxb.com/buell_images/5956_20110914225914_L.jpg