DIY Wheel Balancing

[dickturpin]

Anyone tried balancing their wheels at home? Was it a success or a waste of time?
I don't have a static balancing machine but videos on YouTube suggest it can be done without one so I am interested to try it....unless the experience on here suggests otherwise.

[kgjersda]

It's very simple.


This is a very instructional video on it:







I used a plane surface and something like this piece:
http://www.biltema.no/no/Bil---MC/MC/Verkstedutstyr/Hjulbalanserer-MC-2000021023/

[Mustang]

I have the abba wheel balancer static works good

[dickturpin]

Thanks.....but has anyone any success without the static machine....using the bike axle to support and spin the wheel?

[Slaninar]

There's usually no need to balance the rear wheel. You feel no problems when riding, even if it isn't balanced. Unless tyre is really poorly balanced.

[crickleymal]

But what about the front?

[NorthWestern]

I use the spindle. Prop the threaded end on something and hold the other in my hand.  You do need to twist the spindle slightly while you do it to overcome the wheel bearings a bit but it works as well as a static balancer.

[Fazerider]

Thanks.....but has anyone any success without the static machine....using the bike axle to support and spin the wheel?

That's the way I've always done it.
Brake calipers and speed sensor removed (calliper and chain, obviously for the rear) to get the friction down, then with a few minutes trial and error I can get the wheel balanced to within about 5 grammes.