Typically on the DR650, the front wheel bearings last 3/4 seasons of riding whereas the rear one could last 1 or 2. Of course, it all depends on how much/how hard/how loaded you ride and where you ride.

How topack wheel bearings onatrailer

Then, position your hands on the tire, opposite to each other across the diameter of the wheel and try to rock it on the axle (no spinning here). Meaning, while you are on your knees on the side of the bike, try to push-pull your hands close or away from you.

Repackwheel bearings cost

At this point, you should be able to spin the bearing with your finger without feeling much resistance or "sand grain" on the race.

Sometimes, all they need is a little l̶o̶v̶e̶ grease! You may not need to replace your wheels bearings but greasing them will certainly keep them going longer.

How togrease wheel bearings without removing

It's highly important that you do not damage this seal either as it is the last protection against water and dust from the outside.

If you can feel a play and sometimes also confirm by seeing it, this means your bearing is shot and needs to be replaced ASAP!

Wipe it down and then use the drill and the round handle of a tool to spin the bearing at high speed. This will helps expel the grease out really quickly.

A little lip on the spacer holds it in place so that they don't fall off when taking the wheels off for repair but they come out with a little persuasion.

How to repackwheel bearings

Drill + a tool handle that friction fit well into the inner race of the bearing (here I use the pick tool as it fit very well!).

BearingPacker

The topic discussed in this post is when a bearing is still good meanings there is no play at all but might need a little grease to perform better and last longer.

Here in the PNW, we replace rear bearings every 2 seasons or earlier, if a failed seals allowed water to get in, they won't last long. Otherwise, we grease them Front and Rear every spring if they are still good.

How topack wheel bearings by hand

The bearings in the hubs are an essential part of the bike and are far too often neglected until they are really close to a catastrophic failure. If a bearing fails on the trail, you are basically stuck without being able to roll the wheels without causing more damage.

The technique consists of pushing the seal sideways and then up, using the pointy tip to grip the surface of the rubber.

So the first step is to access the condition of the bearings. This an easy operation that is best done while the wheels are still on the bike.

BearingBuddy

If you do feel any play at all, then continue and try to look down at the junction of the wheel spacer and the dust cover (the first seal you see from the outside).

WheelBearingpacking tool

Repacking the bearings will help them last longer, avoid overheating and prevent water ingress leading to rust and premature failure.

Tip: When you buy new bearings, take off the dust cover and pack them with extra grease. They tend to come with very little from the factory in the first place which will lead to premature failure. Thanks to Murray B. for this fine tip :)

Check our other guide: How to replace a wheel bearing (coming soon) and get yourself a bearing replacement kit from the store.

If you do push it further it could come in contact with the bearing and the seal's lip will ride on the retaining lip of the wheel spacer. This will damage the dust seal really quickly and allow water ingress toward the bearing. Not good!

You want to ensure you are prying on the outer edge of the seal and not the soft lip part otherwise you can easily damage the lip and/or kink the spring behind it.

Ideally but it is not a necessity, you will lift your bike off the ground, one wheel at the time during the checking procedure.

Once you can see the balls inside the bearing, have a good look at it and evaluate how much grease is left, do you have any trace of rust color in the grease or is it simply dry.

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Note: On the rear wheel you might feel a play but can't see anything moving on the axle. This is likely a play in the swingarm axle you feel while rocking the wheel.