Newbie question # 2 HOT WHEELS

[megabass]

I have noticed that after a ride the rear wheels and tyres on my 1979 Vespa 50 S get pretty hot

Obviously the rear wheel is connected to the engine and the exhuast pipe runs over the top of the rear tye (with just an inch clearance or so)

IS THIS NORMAL ??- will it get hot enough to damage it???

Any help appreciated

Ta

[skrappey]

If you sat still with the engine running it might get a bit warm but as long as it's moving the wind will keep it within tolerances. The warmer the tyres the better when running.

[megabass]

OK. thanks Skrapp man

It is not just 'a bit warm' though , the wheel hub itself is really hot after a 20 minute ride -
Its almost too hot to touch, especially the wheel nuts!!!!

There doesnt seem to be any problem with anything else - I dont think the engine is overheating generally and Im not sitting still for a long time on my rides.
Maybe Im just worrying for nothing about my baby!!!

could it be the rear brake cos I have a few hills on my usual ride
Any smallframe owners notice the same thing?

(p.s I have a 50 S - V5SA1T)

[Spence]

If your hub and rims are getting that hot (and that heat is obviously transferring to your wheel nuts) I can't see it being anything indirect. Only friction could cause that much heat.

Warm tyres is one thing, but I'd say rims too hot to touch put you at risk of a blow out. You need to get that looked at.

[joey]

I'd check to see if your rear brake is binding, or maybe bearing on it's way out.
Have you checked your gearbox oil level?

[skrappey]

You didn't mention the hubs getting hot before, follow the advice from the other posters, definitely not right.

[megabass]

OK -
I dont think that its the rear brakes binding and the gearbox oil level is fine so it must be the bearings I guess!!
Better get it booked in!!

[Ironduke]

I had this - it was the brake binding on