We got these bikes at Walmart and only about five rides in. This is how the wheel is rubbing against the frame. What do I need to adjust? Would it be the bolts for the wheel where they attach to the frame?
by Odd_Independence_583
We got these bikes at Walmart and only about five rides in. This is how the wheel is rubbing against the frame. What do I need to adjust? Would it be the bolts for the wheel where they attach to the frame?
by Odd_Independence_583
12 Comments
Not sure frames bent, wheel is probably just not in correctly. There is a quick release or a pair of bolts on the back corner of the frame, loosen this (by flipping the lever “open” or slightly loosening each bolt) and make sure the wheel is fully seated into the frame slots on each side.
There are ways to do it with some spare axles (two) which are plentiful at the local co-op, some string, and a 4-6ft 2×4
https://www.sheldonbrown.com/frame-spacing.html
Im not a doctor but I’d guess your frame is not bent but that the axle was not properly tightened or situated. Loosen the skewer, seat it properly, tighten firmly
Honestly, frame probably isn’t bent. I’d guess the axle bolt or quick release isn’t tight enough and you just have to recenter the wheel.
Also, discount bikes are hard to tune. You can’t always make a department store bike ride right. They just aren’t built within enough of a tolerance to know you can set everything up right.
Maybe return and get another one or if you can afford it spend the same money on an older used bike that feels good when you ride, stop, and shift it.
It doesn’t seem like it’s bent. It might not be seated properly. Loosen both axle bolts in the back and adjust it then tighten back up.
Unscrew the bolts holding the wheel, place the wheel exactly in the middle so that it does not touch the frame, tighten one bolt on one side and see if the wheel is still in the center, if so, tighten the other bolt.
The rear axle was too loose and when they pedaled it pulled the wheel to one side, loosen the right side of the axle and center the wheel, then tighten
Eeeww! That’s ugly!
https://preview.redd.it/0b2c3z2a89ff1.jpeg?width=2268&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=159d7f7cc7bc62746d73b4f92b26d4c4320b3e41
Update, loosening and retightening those bolts after seating, the wheel in the center fixed it, thank you so much!!!!
Department store bikes are assembled by people who have no clue what they’re doing. That bike would work so much better if you got it tuned up at a bike shop. Just saying.
Yes, you need to loosen the axle bolts and center the wheel in the frame. Be prepared to re-align the brake pads, too.
Frame is fine, wheels can bounce around a bit.