Can a slightly deformed motorcycle wheel hub still be used?
2 Answers
It can still be used, but for personal safety considerations, it is recommended to repair it before use. Here are the detailed explanations of relevant content: Wheel hub deformation: Generally, aluminum alloy wheel hubs are difficult to deform without strong impact, and they also allow a certain amount of swing. If the left and right deviation does not exceed 2 millimeters, it is not a problem. After the wheel hub is deformed, it is recommended not to use it anymore. When the wheel hub is unbalanced and jumps, the driving stability will deteriorate. It is also not recommended to repair it, as the strength of the wheel hub will also deteriorate after repair. Repair method: First, wash the motorcycle clean and check the damage degree of the front tire mudguard. Use a wrench to remove the screws fixing the front tire mudguard, then take down the front tire mudguard separately. Cut the copper sheet into strips about 1-2 cm wide with scissors for later use. Wash the removed front tire mudguard carefully again and wipe it dry with a cloth. Squeeze AB double-tube glue into the front tire mudguard at a ratio of 1:1, mix it evenly, and apply it to the cracked interface of the front tire mudguard. Paste the cut copper strips on the crack of the front tire mudguard, press the copper sheet tightly with your hand for four to five minutes, and then let it dry naturally. After the pasted copper sheet is completely dry, you can reinstall the front tire mudguard and drive normally.
As a veteran rider with over a decade of motorcycle experience, I firmly believe you should never take risks with slightly deformed rims. Even the slightest warp in a rim can make the bike feel unstable, causing it to wobble side to side and completely disrupting balance. At high speeds, this can lead to severe vibrations or even tire blowouts. I've seen a friend ignore this issue and end up crashing during a corner, landing in the hospital—repair and medical costs far exceeded the price of a new rim. Rim deformation usually results from hitting potholes or overloading, and once the metal structure is compromised, it's nearly impossible to fully restore. Warning signs include feeling unevenness when running your hand over the rim or noticing wobbling as the wheel spins. Safety comes first—stop using it immediately and have a professional shop test it with proper equipment to decide whether to repair or replace. Remember, every component on a motorcycle affects your safety—don’t risk major consequences for minor savings.
