Why is there a noise when rotating the rear wheel of a motorcycle?
2 Answers
The reasons for noise when rotating the rear wheel of a motorcycle: bearing damage, severe wear of components. Bearing damage: Lift the motorcycle stand, stand on the side with the chain and sprocket, hold the rear shock absorber with your left hand, grab the rear wheel with your right hand, and swing the rear wheel left and right (i.e., move it toward the left and right shock absorbers). If you feel a gap between the rear wheel and the rear axle (i.e., the rear wheel seems to wobble left and right), it indicates the bearing is faulty and needs replacement. Severe wear of components: The clutch is excessively worn and should be replaced promptly; the pulley is severely worn; gear wear (caused by insufficient oil in the gearbox or long-distance driving); wear of the rear drum brake.
I've been riding bikes for nearly twenty years, and it's not uncommon to encounter situations where the rear wheel makes noise when rotating. The most common issue is with the chain—loose or insufficiently lubricated chains can produce a metallic grinding sound. Another possibility is worn hub bearings, which create a sharper, more sandpaper-like noise. Also, don’t overlook the braking system; excessively worn brake pads or stuck calipers can cause continuous friction sounds. Personally, I always check the chain tension before each ride, ensuring it’s within the 2-3 cm range, and apply dedicated chain lubricant. If the noise persists, head to a bike shop immediately—worn bearings are dangerous and compromise riding safety. Regular chain maintenance can save a lot of trouble.
