Notes From the Shop: The Art of Quick Release Skewers

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Photo: Jim Merithew/Element.ly

This week it’s all about quick release skewers and locking anti-theft skewers. There are many different kinds of each, so I’ll generalize to keep things simple.

First, let’s talk about the good old quick release skewer. It’s on most of the bikes you own or buy and these little gems are what hold your wheels on. What’s most important to know is that there’s a right and wrong way to install a skewer.



When it comes to the rear wheel, if you are road racing, club riding or just riding for fun, you should never angle the lever of the skewer so that it points straight back because other riders can catch their wheels on the skewer if it’s sticking out. If you’re a triathlete or TT person and there’s no drafting allowed in your races then you can point it straight back for aero purposes.

For the front skewer, you shouldn’t close it against your fork because that makes it harder to get off. And for certain skewers, the fork prevents the skewer from closing all the way. Instead, you should have the front skewer point back towards the bottom bracket if possible. If not, then point it straight up along side the fork blade.

Now onto locking skewers. The best option if you are serious about commuting is a German company called PitLock. There are cheaper options out there, but most of the other options do not lock as well. You can also go out and buy keys for cheaper options. But this means anyone can get your wheels off.

One last note when it comes to quick release skewers. Those little springs that are on there? You need those. They help keep the skewer centered as you install your wheel. There is a right and a wrong way to install those too. The small opening of the spring goes towards the wheel and the large opening faces outward. It’s the same for both sides and for front and rear wheels.