Axel installed Backwards???

[k47k]

While taking off my rear wheel i notices that the axel is installed backwards. Well at least the Manual shows the axel nut on the sproket side...

Which way is the axel supposed to be installed... ive been to a number of KTM shops and all the bikes have the Axel nut on the Rotor side??

Any reason for this?

 

[KDX220rm]

The reason they do this is because its easier to get the bolt out if it seizes. You are only pulling the majority of your axle bolt through the sleeve in the hub and then the swing arm. If it was the other way, you are pulling the bolt through the sleeve in the hub and both swingarms plus through the rotor. Its less resistance.

Every dealer is recommending this procedure, plus you will notice that all other bike manufactures are doing this too.

 

[k47k]

That makes sense. Thanks!

 

[dstktmusa]

one other thing to note is: when you tighten the nut when it's on the rotor side, it pulls the axle forward against the chain adjusters. with the axle nut on the chain side you will pull the axle back, away from the chain adjuster blocks and messing with your chain adjustment. you should alway do the "wrench in the sprocket trick" when torquing the nut.

 

[zilla]

Every KTM I have ever owned had the nut on the rotor side..