They do take a bit of a 'scary' tug though - get your fingers round the bottoms of a spoke at either end and give it a proper good sharp yank. When you put the new ones in push firmly all round the edges so they click into place properly. Once you've done it you'll find it easy next time. I take mine out every time I wash the car
I would lift a little to get the bottom retainer clips free as you pull out, then the upper sections release easily. Once done you'll see how it is retained and it becomes a lot easier - as with most things!
Bings right it needs a scary pull at first though! :lol: