Wheel Alignment

[Bill]

I am not too sure of this and always wandered how far the axle is supposed to be when putting them in the dropouts. Single speeds I have a good idea but the multi speeds is one I always tried to get aligned properly as best as I could. Also is there a procedure with a certain tool?


Thanks Bill

[Bill]

Here is a small diagram to show what I am wondering....

[Alex Ramon]

As you know, on single speed bikes the rear axle will be tightened at different positions along the dropout so you can adjust the chain tension. On front axles and multi-speed bikes, the axle should slide all the way into the dropout, and be tightened as far in as it can go on both sides. Hope that helps!

[Alex Ramon]

Sorry, I forgot to mention that if your rear derailleur is axle-mounted (instead of threaded into the frame), the left side of the axle usually floats in the dropout, so that you can adjust the wheel centering.

[Bill]

Ok very cool. The multispeeds I did before screwed into the frame. Glad you mentioned the axle type as that is very interesting. Thanks Alex.