Change a tire on a bike

 

Changing a bike tire can be a straightforward process, but it requires the right tools and a systematic approach

. 

1. Removing the Wheel:

• Turn your bike upside down or use a bike stand. Some people prefer turning the bike upside down, resting on the handlebars and saddle, but note that this may cause damage to those parts.
• For the rear wheel: Shift your gears to the smallest cog on the rear cassette.
• Release the brakes: Squeeze the brake calipers to loosen the cables, or use a quick-release lever if your bike has one.
• Release the quick-release lever or unscrew the nuts: If you have a quick-release lever, open it and loosen it until it can be removed from the axle. If you have nuts holding the wheel, use a wrench (typically a 15mm wrench) to loosen and remove them.
• Lift the wheel out of the frame: Carefully remove the wheel from the dropouts (the slots in the frame that hold the axle). You may need to pull back the rear derailleur to clear the chain. 

2. Removing the Tire and Tube:

• Completely deflate the tire: Loosen the valve cap and release all the air. For Schrader valves, press down on the pin in the center; for Presta valves, unscrew the tip and press down.
• Break the tire bead: Push the sides of the tire inward towards the center of the rim to loosen the tire bead from the rim.
• Use tire levers: Insert a tire lever under the tire bead and pry it up and over the rim. You can hook the lever onto a spoke to keep it in place.
• Repeat with a second tire lever: Insert another lever a few inches away from the first and work it around the rim to release the rest of the tire bead. For stubborn tires, you may need a third lever.
• Remove the inner tube: Pull the tube out from inside the tire, starting by pushing the valve stem through the valve hole in the rim.
• Inspect the tire and rim: Check the inside of the tire for any objects that caused the puncture (e.g., thorns, glass) and remove them. Also, check the rim for damage like sharp edges or cracks, and ensure the rim tape is in good condition. 

3. Installing the New Tube and Tire:

• Inflate the new tube slightly: This will help it hold its shape and prevent it from getting pinched during installation.
• Insert the valve stem: Push the valve stem of the new tube through the valve hole in the rim.
• Tuck the tube inside the tire: Carefully place the tube inside the tire, ensuring it is not twisted or kinked.
• Install one side of the tire onto the rim: Start by working one bead of the tire onto the rim, beginning at the valve stem.
• Install the other side of the tire: Using your thumbs and fingers, work the remaining tire bead onto the rim, starting from the valve. You can try to push the tire bead into the center channel of the rim to make it easier. You may need to use tire levers for the final section, but be careful not to pinch the tube.
• Check for pinching: Before inflating, ensure the tube is fully seated inside the tire and not pinched between the tire bead and the rim.
• Inflate the tire: Inflate the tire to the recommended pressure, which is usually found on the tire sidewall. You can use a manual or electric pump. YouTube video shows how to pump up a bike tire. If your bike has a Presta valve, remember to loosen the small brass cap and then screw it back down after inflating. 

4. Reinstalling the Wheel:

• Slide the wheel back into the frame: Ensure the wheel is properly aligned with the dropouts.
• Tighten the quick-release lever or nuts: Secure the wheel by tightening the quick-release lever or the nuts on the axle.
• Reconnect the brakes (if applicable): Re-engage the brake cables if you had to disconnect them earlier.
• Check the brakes and wheel spin: Make sure the brakes are working correctly and the wheel spins freely. 

Tips for Success:

• Practice beforehand: Changing a tire for the first time can be challenging, so practice in a comfortable environment before you need to do it on the road.
• Use good quality tire levers: Cheap levers can break or bend, making the job harder and potentially damaging your rims.
• Be patient: Some tires, especially new ones, can be tight and difficult to get on the rim. Take your time and avoid using excessive force, which can damage the tire or tube.
• Consider patching a flat: If you encounter a flat while riding, you can choose to patch the tube instead of replacing it, especially if you have a patch kit available.
• Check the recommended tire pressure: Inflating your tire to the correct pressure is crucial for performance and preventing future flats. 

By following these steps, you should be able to successfully change a tire on your bike. Remember that with practice, you will become more efficient at this process.