Bicycle Mechanics - Freewheel doesnt engage

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Steverino
05-09-08, 10:13 PM
It usually happens once every couple of rides, but today it happened twice.... I downshift from big to small ring in front, and I find that the freewheel has let go, and I'm pedaling forward with no load. I back pedal, forward pedal a couple of times, perhaps upshift on the back, and it finally engages. I'm positive that the downshift to the smaller front ring was clean, ie the chain was not floating (I can see the chain engaged in the teeth).

Is this repairable? or am I gaining justification for a wheel upgrade? They're basic OEM Alex AKX R2.0, nothing special, with 2500 miles on them.

Wordbiker
05-09-08, 10:16 PM
Try oiling them.

Factory freehubs are often packed with grease, and the grease eventually solidifies or gets contaminated to the point that it prevents the pawls from engaging reliably. It's always worth a shot.
roccobike
05-10-08, 07:58 AM
Is this repairable? or am I gaining justification for a wheel upgrade? They're basic OEM Alex AKX R2.0, nothing special, with 2500 miles on them.

Yup, you should be able to get that fixed. I oil them with 30 weight by placing the oil between the small space where the freewheel turns and the center does not turn. Try not to get any oil on the axle where it can reach the bearings and cut the bearing grease.
If oiling does not work, try WD-40 to cut the gunked up grease that holding the palls, then oil.
Correct performance should come right back.