Symptoms
- Pedals spin freely with no resistance and the bike doesn't move
- Clicking sound present but no engagement when pedaling forward
- Problem may come and go intermittently before failing completely
- Rear wheel spins freely both directions when off the ground
Likely causes
- CommonWorn or gummed up freehub pawlsThe small spring-loaded pawls that engage the hub can stick from old, thickened grease or wear out.
- PossibleBroken freehub springSmall springs that keep the pawls engaged can break, causing intermittent or total engagement failure.
- PossibleWater or dirt contamination inside the freehubRiding in wet or muddy conditions can wash out grease and let contaminants in.
What to do
- Confirm the issue is the freehub by spinning the rear wheel backward and forward off the ground; a freehub problem shows no resistance in the pedaling direction.
- Remove the rear wheel and, if you're comfortable with hub service, remove the freehub body per the hub manufacturer's instructions.
- Clean out old grease and debris from the pawls and ratchet ring inside the freehub body.
- Apply fresh grease appropriate for freehub mechanisms, avoiding overly thick grease that can gum up the pawls in cold weather.
- Reassemble and test engagement by turning the freehub body by hand in both directions before reinstalling the wheel.
- If a pawl spring is broken, it typically needs replacement rather than cleaning.
- If you're not comfortable servicing the hub, or cleaning doesn't restore reliable engagement, a bike shop can service or replace the freehub.
Tools and parts
- Hub-specific tools (cassette lockring tool, hub spanners)
- Freehub grease
Freehub bodySearch: “bicycle freehub body replacement”
When to call a pro
Freehub service requires specific tools for many hub brands; a bike shop can service or replace the freehub body reliably.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.