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How to change a motorcycle tire?
There are many ways to change a motorcycle tire. Depending on the choice, you can get a very stressful hour or a quick and clean 10 minute job. There are some simple tips that you can use in order to make it the less traumatic experience possible. The most important thing is to be prepared.
Before attempting to change a motorcycle tire, you must be sure that you have all the equipment needed. You will need a tire iron, a valve stem tool, lubrication, a bead breaker, compressed air and something to expand the tire bead. Chances are that if you use these tools properly, you will have no trouble changing the motorcycle tire.
There are several steps in changing a motorcycle tire :
The first step to change the tire is to have equipments like air compressor, foam tape, ratcheting tie-down strap, rim protectors, safety goggles, soapy water, sponge, tire irons, valve core tool, wheel weights, writing utensils etc. You may use a valve stem tool to remove all the air from the tire. Next, you need to lubricate the tire; this can be done by using dish soap or silicon spray.
The second step is to remove the old tire by first breaking the beads. You should use a writing utensil to mark the rotation’s direction on the rim rotor carrier. After putting on your goggles, use a 2X4″ piece of lumber to break the beads. If possible, keep the wheel level on the floor. You will hear a “popping” sound once you break the bead. Then turn over the wheel and break the other side’s bead. Usually when changing a motorcycle tire you can place the tire irons four to seven inches apart.
The third step is to balance the tire. That means ensuring that the axle will remain true while the wheel is spinning. The fourth step is to put on the tube and align it with the approximate position of the valve stem this alignment step is where the Tube Snake tire tool is the best solution. When you have the tube in place you are going to need to add a small amount of air to it. This is mainly done for two reasons; first to help the tube to retain most of its shape and secondly to help to protect it from damage caused by the tire changing tools you are using.
The fifth step is to lubricate the tire bead using the same type of lubrication you used before to get the old tire off. Next, use your breezer tire tool to slow the position of the tire bead onto the wheel rim. Use a rotating method so that you can work with the opposite beads, one after the other. Now the only step left is to inflate the tire. Using compressed air, or a handheld pump, no stronger than 55 PSI, inflates the tire. Now your changing a motorcycle tire experience is done!