Replacement of the front wheel on the Xiaomi scooter: detailed instructions with photos and tips

The front wheel of Xiaomi’s electric scooter is one of the most loaded parts of the design, and it is the first to take on bumps from road bumps, make contact with obstacles, and wear out faster over time than the rear. According to service centers, up to 60 percent of wheel repairs involve the front axle, whether it's a puncture in the tire, rim deformation or bearing wear. M365, Pro, Pro 2 or 1S started vibrating at speed, making extraneous sounds or “leading” to the side, most likely it’s time to replace the front wheel.

Many owners are afraid to take this procedure on their own, for fear of damaging electronics or disrupting the balance. However, replacing the wheel on a Xiaomi scooter is a medium-skilled task that requires no professional skills, if you follow the instructions carefully. In this article, we will analyze the entire process from tool preparation to final testing, take into account the nuances of different models and give tips on how to avoid typical errors, and also find out when the wheel can be repaired and when it is better to replace the whole one.

It is worth noting that the design of the front wheel on Xiaomi scooters is unified for most models, but there are important differences. For example, the Xiaomi Pro 2 uses a reinforced axle, and the second one is the second one. M365 — There are also different types of brake disc attachment (if any) and bolt lengths, and we'll take a look at these details separately so you don't run into any surprises as you go about your work.

When to replace the front wheel: signs and diagnosis

Not every wheel defect requires a complete replacement, sometimes it's enough to fix the tire, tighten the spokes, or lubricate the bearings, but there are a number of symptoms that make replacement inevitable.

🔹 Visible cracks or rim deformation: If the metal disc has dents, dents more than 2 mm deep or cracks (especially near the spokes), the wheel must be replaced.

🔹 Severe wear of the tire tread. Xiaomi scooters use tubeless tires with a tread depth of about 3-4 mm. If the pattern is erased to a level of 1 mm or less, traction deteriorates significantly, especially on wet surfaces. In this case, the tire must be replaced, but the rim can be left behind.

🔹 Check the wheel for backlash: grab it with your hands and try to swing it from side to side. If you feel the game (more than 1 mm), the bearings are worn out. They can be replaced separately, but often it is not cost-effective - it is cheaper to put a new wheel assembled.

🔹 Axle or thread damage: If the axle thread is broken or the axle itself is bent (for example, after a heavy impact), the wheel will not be able to securely fix itself. This is a direct safety threat - when moving, it can turn or even fly away.

🔹 Electrical problems (for models with a motor in the front wheel, for example, Xiaomi Pro 2 E). If the wheel does not rotate smoothly, the engine "jams" or the scooter gives an error E014 (engine failure), you will need to diagnose the controller or replace the wheel with the engine.

Before deciding to replace, inspect the wheel in good light and scroll it manually. Extraneous noises (screaming, crunch) usually indicate problems with bearings, and uneven rotation - deformation of the rim. If in doubt, compare with the rear wheel: the difference in behavior will be obvious.

⚠️ Attention: On scooters Xiaomi M365 The front wheel has no brake disc, and on the Pro 2 and 1S When you change the wheel, make sure it's compatible with your brake system, or you'll have to buy more adapters or change brake pads.

Preparation: tools and spare parts

To replace the front wheel on a Xiaomi scooter, you will need a minimum set of tools, most of which are found in the household.

• 🔧 Hexagonal key 5 mm - for unscrewing the wheel mount bolts (complete with a scooter).
• 🔧 End key or head 15 mm - for the axle nut (if any).
• 🔧 Screwdriver cross (PH2) — plastic-cover.
• 🔧 Flat-slippers or passages - can be useful for removing locking rings (if you disassemble bearings).
• 🔧 Dynamometer key (optional) - for precise tightening of bolts (recommended moment - 40-50 N·m).
• 🛠️ New wheel – make sure it fits your model (diameter 8.5, width 2-2.5), type of axle).
• 🛠️ Lubricant for bearings (e.g. Liqui Moly) LM 50) – if you plan to maintain old bearings.
• 🧴 Degreasing agent (alcohol or acetone) - for cleaning axis and thread.
• 🧤 Gloves – not to get your hands dirty and avoid cuts on metal edges.

If you are replacing a tire with a tubeless tire, additionally prepare:

• 🚴 Installation blades (2-3 pieces) - for tyre boarding.
• 💨 Pump with pressure gauge – to pump the wheel to the desired pressure (usually 35-50) PSI).
• 🧴 Soap solution - to check the tightness (if the tire is tubeless).

Where can I buy parts?

Original Xiaomi wheels can be ordered on AliExpress, in stores like Banggood or from official dealers. The average price of the front wheel assembly (with tire and bearings) is from 2,500 to 4,500 rubles, depending on the model. Alternatively, analogues from the brands Gotway, Ninebot or Hiboy, but before buying, check the compatibility parameters:

rim-diameter

seat-width

axis-length

brake-disk attachment

If you're only replacing a tire or camera, pay attention to the labeling.For Xiaomi M365 A tyre with parameters will do. 8.5 × 2.0 or 8.5 × 2.125. For the Pro. 2 and 1S often used in a wider — 8.5 × 2.5.

Make sure it is compatible with the scooter model|Check for brake discs (if available in the original)|Compare the length of the axis and the diameter of the holes|Pay attention to the type of bearings (usually) 6004RS)|Buy only from trusted sellers with a guarantee-->

Step-by-step: how to remove the front wheel

The process of dismantling the wheel is the same for most Xiaomi models, but there are nuances depending on the presence of the brake disc and the type of mounting.

Step 1. Preparation of the scooter

1. Turn off the scooter with the power button and disconnect the battery (if you plan to work with electricity). To do this, unscrew the 4 screws on the bottom cover and turn off the battery connector.
2. Turn the scooter upside down, resting it on the steering wheel and the footrest, and put a soft cloth under the screen so you don't scratch.
3. If the front brake is installed on the scooter, loosen the brake cable by unscrewing the adjustment bolt on the handle (use a 2.5 mm hexagon).

Step 2: Removal of plastic covers

• With the help of a cross screwdriver, unscrew 2-4 screws that fasten the plastic cover on the wheel (they can be hidden under stickers).
• Carefully remove the lid, putting it around the perimeter. Be careful - the plastic is fragile!
• If the cover is boiling, you can slightly heat it with a hair dryer (no higher than 60).°C) to soften the glue.

Step 3: Unscrewing of the mounting bolts

• With a 5mm hexagon, unscrew the two bolts that hold the wheel to the fork. They're on the sides of the axle.
• If the bolts do not lend themselves, spray them with penetrating lubricant (WD-40) and wait 5-10 minutes.
• On models with brake disc (Pro 2, 1S) additionally unscrew the bolt of the disk mount (usually turnkey 10 mm).

Step 4: Remove the wheel from the fork

• After unscrewing the bolts, carefully pull the axle out of the slots of the fork. If the wheel is sour, slightly wobble it from side to side.
• On some scooters, the axis is fixed with an additional nut on the other side - it must be unscrewed with a 15 mm end key.
• If the wheel is removed with difficulty, check whether the brake disc or wires interfere (on models with the motor in the front wheel).

Step 5: Disconnect the brake disc (if any)

• On the Pro 2 and 1S The brake disc is attached to the wheel with 3-4 bolts. Unscrew them and remove the disc to transfer to the new wheel.
• Examine the disc for wear: if it is less than 1.5 mm thick or has deep grooves, it is better to replace it too.

Step 6: Bearing and axle inspection

• Scroll through the old wheel in your hands. If you hear a crunch or you feel a backlash, the bearings are worn out.
• Look at the axle for rust or deformation, and if it's bent, the new wheel can become crooked.

⚠️ Attention: On scooters Xiaomi M365 And the Pro axis of the wheel often sticks to the fork because of corrosion. Don't try to knock it out with a hammer, it can bend the frame. Better to treat the connection with lubrication and gently loosen the wheel.

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If the wheel mount bolts are twisted too tightly, use a dynamometer key with a force of no more than 50 N·m. The bracing can break the thread in the aluminum fork!

Installation of a new wheel: nuances and errors

Installation of a new wheel is a reverse process, but with a few critical nuances, and if you ignore them, the scooter can vibrate, brake worse, or even lose control.

Step 1 Preparing a new wheel

• If you bought a wheel assembled, check if the carvings are smeared on the axle. If necessary, apply a thin layer of copper lubricant.
• If you install the tire separately, check the direction of rotation (indicated by the arrow on the sidewall). For the front wheel, Xiaomi should have it so that when moving forward, the arrow coincides with the direction of driving.
• Pump the tire to 35-40 pressure PSI (It's on the sidewall of the tyre. For tubeless tires, use a sealant.

Step 2: Installation of the brake disc (if any)

• Move the brake disc from the old wheel to the new, combining the holes.
• Twirl the bolts cross-cross so that the disc sits flat. Puffing time is 8-10 Nm.
• Check if the disc is touching the brake pads in the free state. The clearance should be 0.5-1 mm.

Step 3: Tilting the wheel to the fork

• Insert the axis of the new wheel into the slots of the forks. Make sure that the wheel sat symmetrically - the gaps on both sides should be the same.
• Make the bolts by hand, then tighten them with a hexagon. Don't pull them over! The recommended moment is 40-50 Nm.
• If there is a nut on the axis, tighten it with the end key, then cut it (bend the puck or use a lock nut).

Step 4: Brake adjustment (if any)

• Connect the brake cable and adjust its tension so that the brake handle goes smoothly, without jamming.
• Check the brake: when the wheel is completely stopped, it should not lock sharply (this can cause skids).

Step 5: Installation of plastic covers

• Clean the seat of the lid from dirt and remnants of old glue.
• Apply a thin layer of silicone sealant or bilateral tape to the edge of the lid and press it against the wheel.
• Twisting the screws, but don't pull over - the plastic can crack.

Step 6 Final check

• Turn the scooter back to normal and turn it on.
• Scroll the wheel manually - it should rotate smoothly, without jamming.
• Drive a few meters at low speed, checking for no vibrations and extraneous sounds.

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After changing the wheel, be sure to check the balance: lift the scooter on the foot and scroll the wheel. If it stops in one position, balancing is required (usually the problem is solved by rearranging the tire).

Wheel maintenance: how to extend its service life

To make the new wheel last longer, it is enough to follow a few simple maintenance rules: the average life of the front wheel on a Xiaomi scooter is 3000-5000 km, but with aggressive driving or lack of care, this figure can be reduced by 2-3 times.

Tyre pressure control

• Check the pressure every 2 weeks (even if the tyre looks normal) and the optimal value is 35-40. PSI for standard tires and 40-50 PSI reinforced.
• A flat tire increases the risk of puncture and worsens the coast down, pumped over, reduces traction and makes the ride tough.

2. Bearing cleaning and lubrication

• Every 1,000 km or after riding on dirt, wash the bearings with kerosene or WD-40 and lubricate them with a special lubricant (for example, Liqui Moly). LM 50).
• To do this, remove the locking rings with pliers, remove the bearings, clean them and apply a new lubricant.

Tread and sidewall inspection

• After each trip on gravel or rubble, inspect the tire for cuts or stuck stones.
• If the tread depth is less than 1.5 mm, the tire must be replaced - driving on bald rubber is dangerous, especially on wet roads.

4. Wheel balancing

• If vibration occurs at speeds above 25 km/h, the wheel is unbalanced, which can be caused by uneven tire wear or rim deformation.
• Use balance loads (like a bicycle) or rearrange the tire by 180 to balance at home.°.

5. Corrosion protection

• After driving in the rain or on salt roads (winter), wipe the axle and mount bolts with a dry cloth, then apply a thin layer of lubrication.
• Keep the scooter in a dry place - moisture accelerates the corrosion of metal parts.

6.Right driving

• Avoid heavy braking at high speeds, which increases the load on the front wheel.
• Do not jump on a scooter from curbs more than 5 cm high - the impact can bend the axle or deform the rim.
• When driving on gravel or sand, reduce speed – abrasive particles quickly wear rubber.

Frequent problems after wheel replacement and their solution

Even if you did everything according to the instructions, after the wheel is replaced, there may be problems, and let's look at the most common ones and how to fix them.

1.The wheel vibrates at speed

• Reason: An unbalanced tire, rim curve or improperly inflated wheel.
• Solution: Check the tire pressure (should be 35-40) PSI). Scroll the wheel over weight -- if it stops in one position, you need to balance. Check the rim for dents. If you have any, you'd better replace the wheel.

2.The scooter "leads" sideways

• Reason: The wheel is set asymmetrically, the bolts are tightened unevenly or the tire has uneven wear.
• Solution: Check the gaps between the fork and the wheel on both sides -- they should be the same. Tighten the cross-cross bolts with the same force. If the problem persists, swap the wheel (front put the back) -- if the scooter now leads the other way, it's the curvature of the rim.

3.The brakes creak or are not working properly

• Reason: The brake disc is curved, the pads are worn or the brake cable requires adjustment.
• Solution: Inspect brake pads - if they are less than 1 mm thick, replace them. Adjust the tension of the cable so that the gap between the pad and the disc is 0.5-1 mm. If the disc is deformed, try calcining it (heat to 200).°C and let cool) or replace.

4.The wheel touches the fork or the under-plate

• Reason: Inappropriate wheel size, curved axle or improperly installed tire.
• Solution: Compare the new wheel to the original one (diameter, width, axle departure). If the axle is bent, try straightening it or replacing the wheel. Make sure the tire sits exactly on the rim and is not sideways offset.

5. The scooter is not driving or gives an error (for models with the engine in the front wheel)

• Reason: Incorrect connection of the motor connector, damage to the wire or incompatibility of the controller.
• Solution: Check if the motor connector is connected to the controller (it's under the bottom cover). Check the wires for damage. If the insulation is broken, shrink it. If the scooter gives an error. E014, Maybe the new motor-wheel isn't compatible with your firmware.

⚠️ Attention: If the scooter starts to brake or twitch spontaneously after the wheel has been replaced, stop driving immediately! This may be due to a short circuit in the engine (for front-wheel drive models) or a faulty controller.

Comparison: Repair vs Wheel Replacement

Replacing a wheel is not always economically viable. In some cases, it is cheaper and easier to repair an old one. In the table below, we compare the two approaches by key criteria.

What can be repaired on your own?

• 🔧 Replacement of bearings: The cost of new bearings (6004RS) — about 200 ₽ You'll need a cameraman or pliers for the locking rings.
• 🔧 Tire repair: A kit for repairing tubeless tires (Slime or analogues) costs 300-500 ₽. Suitable for punctures up to 5 mm.
• 🔧 Balancing: You can do it yourself with the help of balancing loads (100-200) ₽).
• 🔧 Rim alignment: