Tire changes

[Swiffer]

Anyone out there change their own tires? I'm going to attempt to change out my rear, and looking for any tips/suggestions. Can't be too difficult I would think, but not sure what tool would be best for popping the old one off and getting the new over the rim. I'll try and post a pic or two of our old rear when I get it off...it's absolutely unbelievable how worn it got out in the Black Hills.

Thanks,
Steve "Swiffer Wet"

[Thumper]

Steve, a worn tire is the sign of a fun trip! ... or the need to go on a diet. ;-)

I did it once on the Norton way back. The bridgestone wasn't very wide or tough. My friend had pilferred something he called a "spoon" that worked pretty good. Basically a small crow bar with a flat, narrow, slightly curved spot on one end. Getting the valve stem of the tube to line up just right caused me to do it twice. I also got lucky and it didn't really wobble until you got to above 80 (which was kinda hard to do on the Norton)

I would think the tougher, wider tires would be harder.

How are you planning on balancing the new tire? Just a bubble balance?

[Swiffer]

I was going to try Dyna Beads for the balancing...read nothing but good things about them. It was just too hot and humid to do this myself today...had the local Kaw dealer throw it on for me(sorry Dean, was in a BIG hurry, and they're practically next door). Got the new(er) tire on and figured I better check the belt...it was shot! Glad I had a spare laying around. I guess there must have been close to 50K on that belt, so shouldn't have been surprised. You could "peel" back each and every tooth. Can't believe it made it home lugging the hack in the wind like we did! Thanks for the tip on the "spoon" Thumper...I'll have to pick one or two up before it's time to do the next change.

Steve

[DEZ]

If you're looking for tire changing tools, you can get them from aerostich.com. And if you're looking for an excuse to ride, you can make the trip up to Duluth and save 10% on your order for showing up in person (and you save the shipping, of course -- but you do end up paying the small Duluth city sales tax).

[Swiffer]

Good plan!

Steve