For reference. I will refer to items by (#)

I'm currently replacing my rear wheel bearings (22) on both sides and I had a stupid moment.

AFTER putting in the new bearings, I decided it would be a good idea to check the manual to make sure I didn't miss a crucial step.

Turns out I never noticed that the rear wheel didn't have a distance collar (10)

So here's my question: Do I need to remove one bearing, buy a collar, put it in there and put the bearing back in
OR
can I ride without a collar as it appears the bike has been without one for quite some time?

I wish I had checked the manual earlier...lesson learned!

What is the general purpose of the collar? Also, if I do need to put the collar in, is there any way I could take the bearing out without damaging it? I don't have a bearing removal tool.

 

Don't kill the messenger. You're going to damage the bearing (at least one of them) getting it out without a puller, and probably even if you did have one. Bearings are cheap so no big deal.

You need that collar and should not ride without it. When you're tightening the axle, the bearings are squeezed towards each other as is the wheel hub. That color maintains the spacing between the wheels and also prevents the deformation of the wheel hub along with premature bearing failure. Get the color and put it in. It's the right/safe thing to do.

 

Psh..I'd never kill the messenger. I ended up calling a few local shops and out of 6, only one had my bearing in stock. I picked it up right away and put the collar in.

Thanks again for the well put advice.