How to Inspect and Replace Wheel Bearings on a 2018 Sherco 450 SEF FACTORY Dirt Bike

How to Inspect and Replace Wheel Bearings on a 2018 Sherco 450 SEF FACTORY

Why wheel bearings matter on your 2018 Sherco 450 SEF FACTORY

Wheel bearings let the wheel rotate smoothly around the axle while keeping the hub centered for precise handling. On a 2018 Sherco 450 SEF FACTORY an enduro/performance trail platform built for aggressive riding bearings take heavy loads from jumps, hard landings, aggressive cornering, drivetrain torque and frequent mud or water exposure. Worn bearings cause vague handling, uneven tire wear and can rob drivetrain efficiency, so catching problems early protects the hub, axle and overall ride stability.

Common symptoms of worn or failing bearings

• Side-to-side wheel play when you grasp the tire laterally
• Grinding, rough rotation or noticeable resistance when you spin the wheel
• Clicking, knocking or intermittent sounds while spinning
• Drag when the wheel should coast freely
• Uneven tire wear or a vague, wandering feeling in corners

Tools & prep you'll need

• Rear & front stands to lift the bike off the ground
• Metric sockets, wrenches, pliers and screwdrivers
• Bearing driver set, punch set or appropriate sockets for even bearing presses
• Mallet or small hammer, soft-faced if available
• Clean rags, degreaser and light grease
• New sealed replacement bearings & new wheel seals

Inspection process front & rear

Work on a clean, level surface with the Sherco on stands so both wheels spin freely. Inspect front and rear bearings together the rear usually sees higher loads from torque and landings.

• Lift the bike so the wheel is clear of the ground. Grasp the tire at the 3 and 9 o'clock positions and attempt lateral movement. Any perceptible play suggests worn bearings or loose spacers.
• Spin the wheel by hand. Feel for smoothness as it accelerates and slows listen for clicking or grinding. A good bearing spins freely and silently.
• Inspect seals for nicks, missing lips or grease contamination. Look inside the hub bore for rust, dirt or metal flakes.
• If the bike has seen pressure washing, water crossings or heavy mud, assume higher risk of contamination. Pressure washer spray directly at seals can force water past them and accelerate failure.

Removing the wheel

Front wheel removal on the 2018 Sherco 450 SEF FACTORY follows standard steps: loosen the axle nut, remove pinch bolts if present, withdraw the axle and slide out spacers, then remove the wheel. For the rear, remove the chain tensioner components, chain from the sprocket, axle nut and axle, then slide out spacers and lift the wheel free. Keep spacers in order so you can reinstall them exactly as removed.

Extracting old bearings

Remove wheel seals carefully using a flat screwdriver or seal puller so you don't score the hub bore. Use a bearing driver sized to the inner race or a socket that contacts only the inner race and drive the bearing out from the opposite side. Work evenly, tapping around the bearing until it walks out. Avoid pressing on the outer race or the hub face uneven force can damage the hub bore.

Cleaning & hub inspection

Wipe the hub bore clean and inspect for pitting, corrosion or scoring. Light surface rust can sometimes be removed with fine emery cloth, but deep damage means parts replacement. Ensure the hub bore is dry and free of old grease or debris before installing new bearings.

Installing new sealed bearings

• Most wheel bearings on the 2018 Sherco 450 SEF FACTORY are sealed cartridge bearings pre-packed with grease. They are not serviceable internally.
• Use a bearing driver or a socket that contacts only the outer race to press the new bearing squarely into the hub. Apply even pressure and work the bearing into the bore until it seats fully against the shoulder.
• Install new wheel seals by pressing them flush. A light smear of grease on the seal lip helps initial seating and keeps contaminants away from the seal edge.
• Replace axle spacers and any dust covers in the exact orientation removed. A light coat of grease on the axle shaft and spacer faces helps prevent corrosion and eases future removal do not attempt to lubricate the sealed bearing itself.

Tips on sealed bearings & related greasing

Sealed bearings are factory-packed and should not be oiled or opened. If a bearing feels rough, loose or contaminated, replace it instead of trying to add grease to the bearing internals. Apply light grease only to the axle shaft, spacer surfaces and the sealing lips of new wheel seals to reduce corrosion and help keep water and debris away from the bearing seal.

Front vs rear considerations

The rear wheel on the 2018 Sherco 450 SEF FACTORY handles higher torque loads and often sees harsher impacts from landings, so rear bearings tend to wear faster. When servicing one side, inspect and consider replacing both front and rear bearings if symptoms or contamination exist that prevents repeat work and ensures predictable handling.

Preventive maintenance to extend bearing life

• Avoid directing high-pressure washer spray at wheel seals clean hubs with low-pressure rinse and brush out mud after rides
• Dry hubs after water crossings and inspect seals for damage
• Check for lateral play and rough rotation as part of routine post-ride checks
• Replace damaged seals during bearing service to keep contaminants out

Final assembly & checks

Reinstall the wheel, torque axle and pinch bolts to proper tightness, set chain tension (rear) and spin the wheel to confirm smooth operation. Recheck lateral play and listen for noise during a slow test ride. Properly installed bearings return the sharp handling and efficient drivetrain expected from a 2018 Sherco 450 SEF FACTORY and reduce the risk of hub or axle damage down the trail.

Related Shopping Categories

Shop Wheel Bearings for a 2018 Sherco 450 SEF FACTORY Dirt Bike.

Shop Wheel Spacers for a 2018 Sherco 450 SEF FACTORY Dirt Bike.

Shop Bearings for a 2018 Sherco 450 SEF FACTORY Dirt Bike.

Shop Bearing Tools for a 2018 Sherco 450 SEF FACTORY Dirt Bike.

Shop Wheels for a 2018 Sherco 450 SEF FACTORY Dirt Bike.

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.