Hi All,

Every once in a while while back up my 95 FXDL I get a squeak. The bike has just about 28000 miles on it. I have only had it for almost a year. What is the best why to check the wheel bearings?

I plan on putting new tires, bearings and breaks on it in the spring bu I would like to make sure I am still safe for the occasional winter ride.
Thanks again in advance

 

well id jack it up and turn the wheel and listen. also look to see if theres anything coming out of the seal.

 

You could jack it up and check for end play but that won't tell you the condition of the bearing or if it's lubricated well. Take it for a high speed ride and then check the hub to see if they are warm or hot, one of the first signs of a bearing issue is heat.

I have a minor phobea about bearing failure and one of the first things I do to a new to me used bike is pull them out and inspect everything. I use lots of marine grade bearing grease and replace the seals. I still check them for heat once in awhile but the only sure way to be sure it to take them apart.

Lots of things squeak on a bike, the belt for instance. My last bike's belt would squeak going backwards but not forewards, present bike is just the opposite.

Ds

 

Thanks guys! I am in the middle of modding my jack to make it easier to lift this bike.......Hopefully this weekend I can get it up on the jack and check it out

 

Bad wheel bearings dont squeak but will have a rough rumbling noise as you turn the wheel by hand . I would suggest the squeaking noise you hear while backing up the bike is a belt , if you have belt drive or more likely the rear brake is simply making some noise as you reverse the rotation of the wheel , disc brakes will do this at times .
Check your brakes for pad wear etc.

 

........

 

Your bike has tapered roller bearings, so they are easy to pull apart, clean and check, also to repack with grease. If they show any signs of rust replace them. They are a stock bearing, easy and cheap to buy at any bearing supplier. However belts are well known for squeaking, so try that first. A slight wheel misalignment can add to that.