If you’re tearing up the tracks or trails regularly, you are going to wear through tires every once in a while. Ideally, like some of the pros, we’d be able to have a new set put on for us after each and every ride, but realistically it’s only when there is noticeable wear that most of us take action. Once you’re noticing that the knobs on your tires are beginning to round, it’s time for new tires, otherwise you are risking both your performance and possibly your safety.
Remove the Tire
Remove the wheel from the bike, and set it on a changing stand, bucket, or other flat surface that you can bring to waist-height, sprocket side down. Remove the valve stem lock nut and valve stem core. Loosen the rim nut but do not remove it, and push the rim lock inward.
Once the tire has deflated, break the bead using a tire spoon or wrench, working your way around the circumference on both sides of the tire. Insert tire spoons under the edge of the tire, a few inches apart, working all the way around the tire. Pull the tube out of the tire by lifting the sidewall away from the rim. Remove the tire from the spokes with your hands.
Inspect the Rims
Even if you’re just changing a tube it’s vital to check the rims, bead lock, and rubber seals for damage, wear, or sharp spots. Run your fingers along the rims to feel for any irregularities. Wash the rims thoroughly with a wire brush, and make sure that everything looks to be in good, working condition.
Putting on New Tires
Start with the sprocket side, and force the new tire onto the rim with your hands, and when that becomes more difficult use your tire spoons. You will want to use some sort of lubricant for the rubber. Fast evaporating household cleaners like Windex or a soap and water mixture should work fine.
Slightly inflate and deflate your new tube to ensure that any kinks are released. Lift the sidewall of the tire and insert the stem, and replace the cap so that it is set in place. Work the tube into the tire making sure that it doesn’t twist or fold.
Work the tire back onto the rim with a tire iron, pushing down on the opposite side of the area where you’re working. Add air until each of the tire beads pop, and once the beads are both secure inflate it to the proper inflation. Replace the wheel making sure that the axle is clean and the rear chain is properly adjusted
Dirt bike riding is a lot more affordable when you are able to do basic maintenance at home. Learning how to do easier work like changing the tires, fluids, and filters will allow you to keep your bike in better shape at a much lower cost.
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