I have a flat rear tire on my 2014 Forty Eight. Instead of getting it towed, I'd rather just bring them the wheel.

I attempted to take it off today, but ran into trouble with the caliper. I haven't had a chance to get a repair manual so I can't figure out how to get around that part of the process. Do I have to take the caliper off? How do I go about doing that?

Thanks!

 

This guy has some decent how-to videos I haven't done it myself but he does what you need in this video.

 

This is an altered version from the HD manual so as not to infringe on copyright.

****There is no need to disassemble or remove brake
caliper to remove rear wheel.****

1. Secure motorcycle to suitable jack.
2. Remove lower shock bolts with tire resting on ground to support weight. Spin shocks up and secure with zip ties, you may need to loosen upper shock bolts to spin shocks up, to keep out of the way. Remove e-clip, axle nut and spacer. Raise jack to clear mufflers. Gently tap end of axle with a soft hammer to loosen. Keep track of spacers for reinstallation. Pull axle free of rear fork assembly.
6. Slide wheel forward and slip belt off pulley. Raise jack to clear fender.
7. Wheel will now pull free.

For reinstallation, shock bolts torque 48ft/lb. Axle nut 75 ft/lb

This is the basic instruction and you will find little tips and tricks as you go. Service manual recommends removing muffler but I seem to always work around that. If you slide the axle in from the left side when reinstalling it makes it easier to deal with mufflers next time.
Also search youtube. First time take it slow and easy. Good luck

 

Thanks guys, that's really helpful!

Zigzagman, is that from the 2014 manual? I know the brakes changed on all the Sportsters in 2014, and I'm curious if it's a much bigger caliper now which might make it harder to clear the rim.

I'll give the instructions above a shot and let you know if it worked. Thanks again!

 

Ahh! Sorry--thats from an '07 manual. Did not know they changed in 14.