How can I check if a wheel axle is straight?

Question

I might have bent the front axle of my motorbike. How can i check if a wheel axle is straight? I'm looking for tips on how to do this in case i don't have dedicated tools available.

Answer 1

You would want to use a dial indicator and a pair of vblocks

In order to understand the amount of run-out you may have on your axle you will want to be able to measure the amount of run-out and you have on the axle.

You could roll it back and forth on a flat surface to get a general idea if the axle is bent but ultimately, to fully understand the issue empirically, you will need to measure the run-out.

This tool pair will allow you to do it.

The manufacturer of your bike will have the service limits of runout listed in the shop manual.