It is very important to use the correct technique when changing a motorcycle tire. A mistake in the process could not only damage the unit, but also put your life at risk. Learn the correct technique, and start saving time and money while safely riding the streets.
Steps
Method 1 of 2: Remove the tire from the motorcycle
Step 1. Have the necessary supplies ready before removing the wheel
These are some basic tools that you will need and you can find in any motorcycle store.
- silicone lubricant spray (or Windex)
- wheel wrench
- Breezer-type stripper spatula
- valve purge
- bead breaker (or two C-clamps)
- air compressor
- tire protector (optional)
Step 2. Deflate the tire completely using the bleed valve
This instrument is inserted into the valve in order to keep it open. Air usually escapes with force, so you should hold the tool firmly.
This reduces the pressure in the tire, which makes it easier to manipulate
Step 3. Draw an arrow on one of the edges of the wheel, this way you will be able to know in which direction it turns
If you're still unsure, put the tire back on the motorcycle the same way you removed it. Write down the way it should turn; you should know this when you place the next tire.
The wheels turn in the same direction the motorcycle is moving
Step 4. Separate the tire “bead” (inside) from the rim using the bead breaker
It is a metal tool that is placed between the inside of the tire and the wheel. You will hear a click when you do. Continue until separating them on both sides.
- The "bead" is a curved piece located inside the tire and its function is to hold the rim in place.
- If the “bead” is not facing out, try again by drawing more air out of the tire.
Step 5. Spray silicone lubricant on the “bead” of the tire
This will allow you to more easily separate the tire from the rim by inserting the wheel wrench under the bead and by detaching the tire from the rim. Separate both sides of the tire until the tire slides completely.
- Every time you remove a part of the "bead" of the tire, spray it. This will prevent it from messing around again and you have to start over from scratch.
- You can also use Windex.
Step 6. Another alternative is to use two c-clamps
Place them on the tire, right where the rim and the tire meet. Tighten just enough that the tire pressure starts to bend the bead. Then add another clamp 6 to 8 inches from the first and repeat the process. Once on, pull them towards the edges and pull the heel out. You may need to reposition the clamps to fully remove it.
The rim should stick out of the tire when the tire is on the ground
Step 7. Use two tire removers to pry between the bead and the rim
The disassemblers are nothing more than simple long metal bars. Place them under the bead so that the back is against the wheel, then push down to remove the tire. The rim will be the support that will allow you to make this movement. Move around the tire until it's out.
This can scratch or damage the rim if you are not careful, so buy some wheel protectors or put small pieces of foam between the tire and the rim if this worries you
Step 8. Separate the bead and use a lever on the other side of the tire to remove the rim
Repeat the process on the opposite side to remove it completely. It should be easier on this side.
Method 2 of 2: Attach the Motorcycle Tire
Step 1. Lubricate the inside walls of the new tire
Use a spray lubricant or Windex. As you work, keep spraying the lubricant to make the tire easier to handle.
Step 2. Position the new tire so that the direction it will turn matches the one you noted on the back steps on the rim
Similarly, the red dot on the tire should be located next to the valve stem. Make sure to do the above steps.
Step 3. Gather one side of the tire to the rim and pry using the wheel wrench
This time, the walls of the tire will be located between the wheel wrench and the rim, so that the wheel can be pushed into the tire. The bead of the tire acts as a support, so pushing from the center of the tire helps to push the bead into the rim.
Repeat the process on the other side once the first is ready
Step 4. Inflate the tire a little (not completely) using the air compressor
You only have to hear a small click, indicating that the heel is in place.
You can also take a small hammer and tap the tire around the bead until it goes in. This will make the tire fit more easily
Step 5. If you do not hear the sound when inflating the tires, use the Breezer-type tire changer to fit the tire onto the rim
Start on one side and then around the tire.
- Don't keep inflating the tire if you can't fit the bead. Let some air out, re-inflate and use the tools.
- If the tire is not fully inflated, you can usually turn it around a bit. Make sure the red dot on the tire is right next to the valve stem.
Step 6. Put some ceramic powder inside the tire
Sprinkle some ceramic powder (made for tires) on the tire valve. This will keep the tire balanced and equalize the weight. Perform this step before replacing the valve stem.
Step 7. Reinsert the valve stem and tighten it making sure it does not move
Step 8. Inflate the new tire to the recommended pressure
Put the wheel in place and you are ready for a good ride!
Advice
- Motorcycle shops can also be an excellent source of information for simple repairs.
- The tire changer can bind if the tire is too tight. Change positions to make the job easier.
- Use different wheel wrenches when removing motorcycle tires. This will help you remove the tire with less effort as the pressure is distributed.