How to Remove a Tire From a Harley-Davidson Ultra Classic

Exercise care when removing your motorcycle's wheel.

Removing a wheel from a Harley-Davidson Ultra Classic touring motorcycle may be necessary for a number of reasons: A flat tire might need a patch, or replacement tire might need installation, or a wheel bearing might need repair. Whatever the reason, taking off the rear wheel of an Harley-Davidson Ultra Classic will necessitate jacking up your Ultra Classic. Safety should be the goal for this project. Take your time and expect to spend at least 30 to 60 minutes to complete this task.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Motorcycle jack
• Hex wrench set
• SAE ratchet wrench set
• Rubber mallet

1. Remove the Front Wheel

   • 1

     Jack the Ultra Classic up with a motorcycle lift so the front tire is off of the ground.

   • 2

     Loosen both mounting fasteners on the front brake caliper with a hex wrench. Take out these fasteners and pull the caliper up and off the brake rotor. Allow the caliper to carefully hang by its hydraulic hose line.

   • 3

     Loosen and remove the front axle nut with a large SAE ratchet wrench. Tap out the axle with a rubber mallet and place the axle in a clean, dry place.

   • 4

     Remove the wheel from between the front forks. You might have to let air out of the tire in order to accomplish this.

   Remove the Rear Wheel

   • 1

     Jack the Ultra Classic's rear end up with a motorcycle lift. Release and remove the right saddlebag by turning the inner bail fasteners a quarter-turn counterclockwise. Move this saddlebag away from the work area.

   • 2

     Loosen and remove the rear axle nut with a ratchet wrench. Tap out the rear axle with a rubber mallet. Place the axle in a clean, dry place.

   • 3

     Pull the wheel to free it from the rear brake caliper. Allow the wheel to fall forward within the rear swing arm toward the front of the motorcycle. Slip the drive belt off its pulley.

   • 4

     Remove the wheel from inside the swing arm.

Tips & Warnings

• Consider inviting over a friend to help with this task.

• Make sure that the motorcycle is stable after jacking up the front or rear end.