Advice please, I've got a broken rear something...

[Nemesis_252]

I don't mean to get too technical for you folk, but I've got a broken rear something! You might find it hard to believe, but I'm still fairly new to this game

Anyway, I've recently purchased a second hand 2011 Carrera Subway. Before riding anywhere I had it serviced (stripped, lubed, etc) and I've since been out on it three times, covering no more than 50 mile in total. When I was out today, the previously smooth ride felt a tiny little bit juddery, however after stopping briefly to give it a glance, I continued home. Once I got home and took a better look, there is now some play with the rear axle, allowing the wheel to wobble a few millimetres either way. A friend who was passing stopped to offer some limited advice by saying he thought it was the bearings, and even with my limited knowledge it looks like either the axle and/or the bearings.

Now, first question is, how to I confirm what the problem is? The second question is, assuming it is what I'm assuming, is that a quick Sunday afternoon fix, or (for an amateur like me) a local bike ship fix?

Thanks all,
Michael

 

[deptfordmarmoset]

It's possibly a quick fix, tightening up the cones a little if you have the right size spanners - often 15mm and 17mm. Best to do it pretty soon as the play will wear out components in no time.

 

[accountantpete]

The trouble is that there are a lot of different hub designs so it is difficult to advise directly. Also you will need a cassette removal tool and chain whip and possibly cone spanners so I would take it to the LBS and ask him to have a quick look.

 

[RecordAceFromNew]

Carrera wheels are not exactly well built ime, but then you wouldn't expect them to be for the price. However ime they are simple cup and cone jobs and no more difficult to work on than other similar wheels. If the cups or freehub fail then parts will be either uneconomic and/or unobtainable so time for new wheels.

Minimum tool requirement is as deptfordmamoset said cone spanners. This is a good guide. If the cups are ok and bearings/axles are fixed/replaced then I would also recommend re-tensioning the spokes to improve the build of the wheels.

 

[I like Skol]

Could even be a snapped axle (don't ask me how I know!) Given your readily admitted lack of knowledge I suggest a second opinion vfrom a bike shop or a more knowledgable friend. Whichever route you go, get them to demonstrate how they investigate and fix the fault (watch and learn!).

 

[Nemesis_252]

All good advice, Skol in particular - I hadn't considered asking to watch what they do, cheers all.