Replacing the U-joints on a Russian URAL

Recently I was able to pick up a really nice 2007 Russian URAL motorcycle with a sidecar. The model is a Gear Up with all the bells and whistles. The bike has been sitting in storage for over 10 years, but I was able to get it running again.

The u-joints were in need of a replacement, unfortunately.

Rear wheel and hub assembly pulled

The sidecar driveline

The rear hub assembly

Drum brakes have plenty of life left

The brake drum

The URAL is a pretty simple machine and it’s not really difficult to work on. Having had Harleys most of my life, this is a bit of a different animal for me. It’s supposed to be a close copy of the BMW R-71 from the 1930’s, but it has developed and changed somewhat since the 1940’s. Around 2013 they switched to fuel injection. Mine is old enough to still use twin carburetors.

I bought this bike so I could get deeper into the woods on camping trips with my dog. I think it’s going to be a great ride.