Buckled Front Wheel
 

The front wheel of my F650 Dakar while still round is rather bent after the abuses of a trans African trip.

I was wondering:

1. What are the issues / risks of attempting to bend (hammer) a wheel back into shape?
2. Do I have any other options other than buying a new front wheel?

Many thanks,

Rob.

Try Hagon in the Hainault Ilford area.

Hey, I'm currently on a trip from London to Sydney travelling on a BWM R1200GS Adv. My front wheel has been noticibly bent after meeting with a foot deep pothole passing through the Anzob tunnel in Tajikistan. I've had it looked at and have been advised that bashing it back into shape will only weaken it further so I've decided to leave it - that was 4 months ago and no problems yet.

I'd suggest unless its well out of shape to leave it and have it replaced once you've returned home. If you already home I'd probably have it replaced.

Hope I've been of some help.

I would get it replaced ...

Look at getting a quality wheel built up if you are planning on travelling again on the bike. And if you are going to the trouble of having a new wheel laced up, I am a big fan of Haan Wheels in the Netherlands ... lace your front wheel up to an Excel signature series rim or for the toughest thing out there, an Excel A60 rim. Expect to pay about 300 - 400 EUR

If you are not planning on doing much more than commuting, or will sell the bike before another big trip, go for a second hand wheel off ebay. There are a lot of Dakars around and might be able to pick up a front wheel at a decent price. But check the rim first. BMW factory rims are not famous for being strong - in fact quite the opposite. The hubs, spokes and rims they use, and the suspension that separates them from the main body of the bike are notorious as the areas BMW saves money on by using the cheapest stuff they can find. If someone is selling a wheel, it might well be cause its bent.