Rear wheel problem

herbieflowers

Hi, I'm no expert on bike maintenance but I have a problem with my rear wheel. Basically, I can't get the wheel to align properly so friction is caused between the tire and the lower frame of the bike, making it uncyclable. The bike is a standard no-frills mountain bike.

Took off the wheel earlier and the axle. The axle is in two parts, one longer than the other (is this normal? Did it break?). It seems the two parts come together, slot into a kind of C-shaped gap on both sides and are secured on both sides by a bolt. The construction includes a number of small spherical balls. Some of these are attached to one axle, others are inside the axle shaft (if that makes any sense).

Anyway I can't seem to repair the problem myself as one side of the axle doesn't seem to maintain a secure position. Does anyone have any thoughts?

Thanks

ciarsciars

Sounds like your rear axle is broken in two. Your local bike shop is your best bet, as without the correct tools it’s not that easy a job. Plus sourcing the correct size axle could be a pain too.

herbieflowers

Thanks for replying. Yeah, that sounds about right. Should I bring the bike in itself or could I get away with bringing the wheel in on its own?

Keep_Her_Lit

I agree with the broken axle diagnosis. I'd say you'd be as well to take the complete bike in for repair. Whoever repairs your wheel can then ensure that it slots cleanly and securely into the rear dropouts without any problems.

I remember exactly the same thing happening to me as a kid, when I was just starting to tinker with bikes! I walked into the LBS and asked for a replacement for the smaller of the two broken pieces of my axle, as the threads were damaged on it but not the other piece. The old gent in the LBS was a decent chap and didn't explode with laughter but gently explained the situation to me. I walked out better qualified than I had walked in!

herbieflowers

Nice one, thanks for the replies!