Do you need to remove your bike cassette? Maybe you’re replacing it with a new one, or maybe you just want to clean it. No matter the reason, removing a bike cassette is a process that can be completed in 6 simple steps! In this blog post, we will walk you through each step so that you can successfully remove your cassette without any trouble. Let’s get started!
Contents
The Process Of Changing / Removing a Bike Cassette
Tools needed
-Cassette lockring tool (some bikes will come with this tool, but most do not)
-Chain whip
-Crescent wrench or adjustable wrench
Step 1 – Loosen the Lockring
The first step is to loosen the lockring. This part can be a bit tricky, as it’s often quite tight. There are several ways you can do this, but one of the most popular methods is to use a chain whip and cassette remover tool.
If you don’t have these tools, you can also try using a large adjustable wrench or pliers. However, we recommend using the proper tools if possible, as they will make the process much easier.
Once you have your tool of choice, insert it into the lockring and give it a few good twists until it loosens up. Don’t worry if it takes some effort – that’s normal! Just be careful not to damage the lockring in the process.
Step 2 – Remove the Cogs
Now that the lockring is loosened, you can start removing the cogs. There are usually anywhere from 11 to 13 cogs on a cassette, so it can be a bit of a tedious process. However, if you use the right tool it shouldn’t take too long.
The easiest way to remove them is by using a cog removal tool. This tool has several notches in it that fit over each cog, making it easy to remove them one at a time.
If you don’t have this tool, you can also try using needle nose pliers or an adjustable wrench – but we recommend using the cog removal tool if possible, as it will make things much easier!
Step 3 – Remove the Freehub Body
Now that all of your cogs have been removed, you can remove the freehub body.
Simply unscrew this part from the hub using an adjustable wrench or a socket wrench if needed.
Once it’s off, you’ll be able to see inside the hub and get rid of any dirt or debris that might have accumulated over time. This step is optional but recommended for cleaning purposes!
Step 4 – Install Your New Cassette
Now comes one of two possibilities depending on what you want to do with your cassette – either install a new one or clean it up first before reinstalling it!
To install a new cassette, simply follow these steps:
Take your new cassette out of the box and remove any plastic packaging or tags that may be on it. Place this part over the hub, making sure that all cogs are lined up properly with their holes in the freehub body.
Screw them down tightly using an adjustable wrench until they can’t move anymore – but don’t overtighten! This could damage both parts if done incorrectly!
If you’re going to clean it first, go ahead and scrub off any dirt or grime before using a toothbrush or similar tool.
Make sure not to use water when cleaning as this will loosen up grease inside of gears which might cause problems later on down the line (think rust!).
Once cleaned thoroughly dry everything off and reattach the freehub body. Screw it on tightly using a socket wrench or adjustable wrench if needed.
Step 5 – Tighten the Lockring
Now that your cassette is installed, you’ll need to tighten the lockring back up in order to keep it in place. Use the chain whip and remover tool (or pliers/wrench) to do this – just make sure not to overtighten as this could damage the lockring or hub!
Step 6 – Test Out Your New Cassette!
After completing all of these steps, give your new cassette a test spin! If everything looks good, congratulations – you’ve successfully replaced your bike cassette! Now get out there and start riding! 🙂
Video Guide
What is a bike cassette?
A bike cassette is the set of cogs that attach to the rear wheel hub and provide gearing for the cyclist. They come in a variety of sizes, depending on how many speeds the bike has, and can be replaced if needed. Removal and installation can be a bit tricky, but with the right tools it’s not too difficult!
How does a bike cassette work?
The bike cassette attaches to the rear wheel hub and provides gearing for the cyclist. It consists of a series of cogs or gears that are attached to each other and spin together as one unit. This allows the cyclist to change their gear ratio depending on the terrain they’re riding on.
What are some common problems with bike cassettes?
The most common problem with bike cassettes is gear slippage – this occurs when the gears don’t spin together properly and causes the bike to lose power. Another issue that can occur is when a cog becomes worn down and needs to be replaced.
The different types of bike cassettes
The two main types of bike cassettes available on the market today are:
Freewheel – This type has a freewheel mechanism at its rear wheel hub, which means that the cassette doesn’t spin when you’re not pedaling.
The advantage to this is it makes shifting easier because there’s less resistance from gears slipping against each other; however, it can also make shifting more difficult if your chain isn’t properly tensioned or aligned correctly.
Cassette – This type uses a sprocket system at its rear wheel hub, which means that the cassette will spin even when you stop pedaling.
The advantage to this is there’s less friction between gears slipping against each other; however, it can also create more resistance when shifting gears because there’s a lot of movement between cogs while they’re spinning freely around their axis.
When to replace your bike cassette
If your bike cassette is starting to sound louder than usual, or if you notice that it’s not shifting as smoothly as it used to, then it might be time for a replacement! You can also check the condition of your cogs – if they’re severely worn down then it’s definitely time for a new cassette. Removal and installation can be a bit tricky, but with the right guide (this one!) we’ll make it easy.
Last Updated on February 22, 2022