How to Inspect and Replace Wheel Bearings on a 2018 Alta Redshift MX

Shop parts for a 2018 Alta Redshift MX Dirt Bike.

Why wheel bearings matter on the 2018 Alta Redshift MX

The 2018 Alta Redshift MX is a lightweight, high-performance motocross machine built for jumps, hard landings, and aggressive cornering. Wheel bearings let the front and rear wheels rotate smoothly under load and keep the hub centered on the axle. When bearings are healthy you get crisp steering, predictable handling, and efficient power transfer. On a dirt-focused MX platform like the Redshift MX, repeated impacts and lateral forces accelerate wear especially on the rear where drivetrain torque and landing forces concentrate.

Common symptoms of worn or failing bearings

  • Side-to-side wheel play or looseness when the bike is lifted.
  • Grinding, rough rotation, or a gritty feel when spinning the wheel.
  • Clicking, knocking, or irregular sounds from the hub as it spins.
  • Resistance or drag while rotating the wheel by hand.
  • Uneven tire wear, vague handling, or steering that feels imprecise.

Inspection overview what to look for

Inspecting bearings on the 2018 Alta Redshift MX is straightforward and suitable for riders with basic to intermediate mechanical ability. Use a sturdy stand to lift the bike so both wheels clear the ground. Keep the bike clean enough around the hubs to see seals and grease condition.

Stepbystep inspection front and rear

  • Secure the bike on a lift or stand so the wheel spins freely.
  • Grasp the tire at 12 and 6 o'clock and rock it side to side to detect lateral play. Any perceptible movement usually means bearing or spacer wear. Compare to the opposite wheel for reference.
  • Spin the wheel by hand. Listen and feel for smooth, free rotation. Note any grinding, periodic knocks, or rough spots.
  • Inspect wheel seals for cuts, nicks, missing lips, or heavy contamination. On the Redshift MX seals often show the first signs of water or mud intrusion.
  • Look into the hub bore where possible for rust, visible metal flakes, or dried, dirty grease. These indicate contamination and accelerated wear.
  • Check axle and spacer surfaces for corrosion or groove wear that can allow side loading on the bearing.

How riding conditions affect bearing life

The Redshift MX sees hard impacts, frequent jumps, and aggressive cornering on motocross tracks. These stresses combined with mud, water crossings, and pressure washing accelerate seal failure and bearing contamination. Avoiding direct spray into seals and cleaning mud out of hubs after a ride will help extend bearing life.

Tools and supplies you'll need

  • Axle wrench and appropriate sockets
  • Bearing driver set, sockets or a bearing press
  • Punches and a softface hammer or arbor press
  • Seal puller and new wheel seals
  • Parts cleaner, lintfree rags, and brake cleaner
  • Light chassis grease for axle, spacers, and seal lips
  • New sealed wheel bearings specified for the 2018 Alta Redshift MX

Removal procedure

  • Remove the wheel from the bike following normal axle removal steps for the Redshift MX take note of spacer orientation and any washer locations for reassembly.
  • Remove axle spacers and carefully pry or pull out the wheel seals using a seal puller. Keep seal orientation noted for reinstall.
  • Drive out the old bearings from the hub bore. Use a bearing driver or socket that contacts the bearing outer race only pounding on the inner race can damage a bearing that you may be removing by mistake or that you intend to reuse.
  • Clean the hub bore and inspect for scoring, corrosion, or outofround conditions. Light corrosion can be cleaned; deep scoring may require a new hub or professional machining.

Installing new bearings

  • Confirm the replacement sealed bearings match the Redshift MX hub specifications and are oriented correctly.
  • Use a bearing driver or a socket that contacts the outer race to press the bearing into the hub evenly. Apply even pressure and keep the bearing square to the bore to avoid cocking or damaging the hub.
  • Drive the bearing until it seats fully against its shoulder. Repeat for the opposite side bearing if applicable.
  • Install new seals. Lightly coat the sealing lips and the axle contact areas with a thin film of chassis grease to help prevent corrosion and to ease seal fitment do not attempt to add grease to the inside of the sealed bearing.
  • Reinstall spacers and axle, checking that spacers sit square and the axle threads engage without forcing. Torque fasteners to typical trail-tight values you use for the Redshift MX and double-check wheel spin and lateral play once tightened.

Sealed bearing guidance

Most wheel bearings for the 2018 Alta Redshift MX are sealed cartridge bearings prepacked with grease. They are not serviceable do not attempt to lubricate, flush, or open the internal seals. If a bearing feels rough, has play, or shows contamination, replace it rather than try to "refill" it.

Front vs. rear considerations

The rear wheel on the Redshift MX typically undergoes higher loads from torque and landings, so bearings there often wear faster. When you service one wheel, inspect both replacing both bearings on a wheel at the same time is good practice to avoid repeated labor and to maintain consistent hub behavior.

Preventive maintenance to extend bearing life

  • Avoid aiming a pressure washer directly at seals blast away dirt from rims and spokes first, then use low pressure near hubs.
  • Routinely clean mud from around seals and hub faces after muddy rides.
  • Check wheel play periodically and address early signs of looseness before contamination damages the hub bore.
  • Replace damaged or worn seals whenever you service bearings.

Final checks

After reassembly, confirm the wheel spins freely with no grinding and no side play. Recheck axle torque after the first few rides. Properly inspected and installed bearings restore precise handling, keep wheel spin efficient, and protect the hub investment on your 2018 Alta Redshift MX.

Related Shopping Categories

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Disclaimer: This guide is provided for general informational purposes only and is not intended to replace your motorcycle's official owner's manual. Always refer to your manufacturer's documentation for model-specific instructions, torque specifications, safety procedures, and maintenance requirements. If you are unsure or inexperienced, consider seeking assistance from a qualified mechanic or technician.