Quick diagnosis: which problem do you have?
“Wheel not turning when pedaling” usually describes one of two situations:
- The pedals spin but the rear wheel does not drive. This points to the chain, the drivetrain, or the freehub or freewheel not engaging.
- The wheel will not spin freely at all. This points to a rubbing brake, a bent rim, a tight bearing or something stuck.
Lift the rear wheel off the ground (a stand, or hang the saddle and bars on something stable, or have someone hold it) and turn the pedals by hand. What you see tells you where to look.
Pedals spin freely but the wheel does not drive
With the rear wheel lifted, pedal forward and watch the chain and the wheel.
- Chain moves, wheel stays still: The chain is turning the cassette but the cassette is not driving the hub. Suspect the freehub or freewheel.
- Chain does not move: The problem is between the pedals and the chain, such as a loose crank or chainring bolts. Check that the cranks are firmly on their axle.
- Chain has fallen off or jumped: It is out of position and the cranks are spinning without pulling anything.
Check the chain and drivetrain first
These checks are quick and often solve the problem:
- Confirm the chain is on the chainring and the cassette cogs.
- Look for a chain that is jammed between the frame and the small cog, or caught in the derailleur.
- Look for a bent derailleur hanger or a derailleur pulled into the spokes. Do not pedal hard if the derailleur is in the spokes.
- Check for a broken chain link or a link that is stiff and skipping.
If the chain is simply off, lift it back on gently and spin the cranks by hand.
Freehub or freewheel not engaging
On most bikes the rear hub has a ratchet mechanism that lets you coast. Small pawls, pushed outward by springs, catch teeth inside the hub when you pedal and let go when you stop. If old grease turns gummy or cold, the pawls can stick and slip. A pawl or spring can also break.
To test it, take the rear wheel off and spin the cassette or freewheel by hand:
- It should spin freely one way and lock up in the other direction.
- If it spins both ways, or only catches sometimes, the pawls may be stuck or damaged.
Symptoms you may notice before it fails fully: occasional slipping under load, a sudden rush of free spinning, or an unusual noise when coasting.
If you need to remove the rear wheel, the process differs by axle type. The guide to removing a front wheel without a quick release covers the front wheel and has similar axle basics. Rear wheels also involve the chain and derailleur, so take note of how it sits.
Wheel won’t spin freely
If the problem is the wheel resisting rotation rather than failing to drive:
- Check if a brake is rubbing. On disc brakes, a slightly misaligned rotor or caliper can cause drag. See our guide on removing and refitting a wheel with disc brakes.
- Spin the wheel by hand with it off the bike. If it feels rough or stiff, the bearings may need service.
- Check for a bent rim or a wheel that is badly out of true, which can rub on brake pads or the frame. See how to true a wheel without a spoke wrench for a basic check.
- Check that the wheel is seated fully in the dropouts and the axle is tight.
Basic fixes you can try
- Cleaning and re-greasing the freehub. Some freehubs can be opened for cleaning, and lubricating them can free sticky pawls. The method depends on the brand and model, so check the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Applying a light lubricant. Some people add a few drops of suitable oil, though too much or the wrong product may attract dirt. Follow manufacturer guidance.
- Reseating the wheel and tightening the axle.
- Replacing a freewheel or cassette body. If the mechanism is damaged, the freewheel, freehub body or entire hub may need replacement.
When to replace or go to a shop
If the cassette spins both ways, you hear a grinding noise, or cleaning does not help, the mechanism probably needs replacing. Because parts are specific to each hub, a shop can identify the right one. Avoid riding hard on a slipping drivetrain, because a sudden loss of drive can throw you off balance.
FAQ
Why isn’t my bike moving when I pedal?
Most often the chain has come off or the freehub or freewheel is not engaging. Lift the rear wheel and watch what the chain and cassette do.
Why does my bike not freewheel?
If the bike does not coast, the pawls may be sticking, or the chain may be binding (see bike chain slipping under hard pedaling for related chain problems). A stiff or poorly lubricated hub is a common cause.
Can I repair a bicycle freewheel?
Sometimes. Cleaning and relubricating can help a sticky mechanism. Worn or broken parts usually mean replacement.