DT1 MX project

Now for the wheels on the DT1 project. The front wheel I'm using is from a '81 TT250. Yamaha used this same wheel on many models and years, so they are inexpensive and easy to find in nice shape.


I'd used an XT500 front wheel during mockup. Here it is with the TT wheel I'll be using instead. The TT wheel has a smaller and lighter hub and brake, which will be better for a motocrosser. It also doesn't have a speedo drive like the road bike XT wheel.


The rear is from a '76 TT500.


Before disassembling a wheel it is a good idea to check a few things first. Put it on something so you can spin it and look for any flat spots or see if it is bent. Aluminum rims tend to crack where the seam is joined, so look at it closely.


I like to lay the wheel on a flat surface and mark the wheel offset.


I marked the stick 'brake up' and 'drive up'. This gives you something to use for quick reference when you re-lace the wheel.


I also label one of each of the four spoke groups for reference later. Sometimes they can be the same, or all four can be different.


Here both wheels are completely broke down for refinishing.


Both are DID rims, 1.60 x 21 for the front and 2.15 x 18 rear.