Steps to Replace Inline Skate Wheels

The wheels on roller blades are the parts that wear out the quickest. By replacing them, your skates can feel completely new. Fortunately, changing the wheels yourself is straightforward - just adhere to this guide, and you'll soon be back rolling.

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

Utilise the tool on the bolt securing the axle. Sometimes, two tools or Allen keys, as illustrated in the above image, are needed. Once the bolt is loosened, both the axle and screw can be taken out. The old wheel should also be removed from the frame.

This is an ideal time to clean the frame and bearings. Therefore, we suggest using a dry cloth to wipe off dirt from the area where the wheel was located.

Employ a skate-tool or an Allen key to detach the bearings from the old wheel. If you intend to use the bearings in the new wheel, ensure all dirt is wiped off from the bearings with a dry cloth. You might also wish to give your bearings a thorough clean.

Discover more: How to clean your bearings

In addition to the bearings, a spacer can also be found in the wheel. This spacer should be placed in the new wheel as well (Note that certain skates feature 2- or 3-sectioned spacers).

Insert the bearings and spacer into the new wheel. The bearings are meant to fit snugly. (If the bearings are loose, play in the wheel might occur, which is undesirable. Opt for better wheels with a tighter hub)

Now, the new wheel is prepared for fitting. Position the new wheel in the vacant spot on the frame.

Insert an axle through the wheel and secure it with the screw. Use the skate-tool to tighten the screw. Ensure the screw is tightened firmly, but not so much that it restricts the wheel's ability to spin freely.

Repeat this process for all wheels. New wheels usually have a greater diameter compared to the worn ones. As a result, you will be able to skate at a higher speed, so take care the first time you skate after replacing the wheels.