How to Change a Motorcycle Tire

You never know when you might end up popping a tire and needing a quick replacement. To make sure you’re prepared for this kind of emergency we advise reading our helpful guide below! 

Tools

Before you get started there are a few items you’ll need to have on hand! Be sure to have a lubricant (Windex will also work just as well), rim protectors, tire irons, and bike stands or jacks. You’ll also need to remove your wheel’s valve core. You can purchase a special tool for this or use a pair of needle nose pliers (although the tool will be easier to use). You’ll also need a tool called a bead breaker. This can be purchased separately but is often affixed to motorcycle tire irons. 

Changing the Tire

To change your tire you’ll first need to remove the nuts holding it in place. Lay the tire on the ground and spray your lubricant before using your bead breaker to pop the tire’s seal. Continue to use the tool around the edge of the tire till the seal is completely broken and the tire falls off the edge of the rim and into the center. Flip the tire to the other side and apply the lube once again. Place down your rim protectors and grab your tire irons (or simply switch sides if the bead breaker is attached to this tool) to begin the same process again. Wedge your tire irons under the wheel to pull it free from the rim. 

Replacing the Tire

Now that your tire is completely off the rim you can recycle it and prepare to place your new wheel on. Lubricate the inside of the rim and check the new tire for an arrow and dot dictating the correct direction it needs to spin and where to place your valve. To push the first edge of your tire over the rim edge you can use your tire irons, or even just your hands and knees. To get the other side of the tire over the rim you’ll once again need your tire iron and rim protectors. Repeat the same wedging process as before till you hear the tire loudly pop into place. Afterward, you can insert your valve core once again and inflate your new wheel. 

We hope this guide has been a helpful resource to you! If you’re located in the Southern Wisconsin or Northern Illinois regions we hope you’ll visit Windy City Motorcycle Company for all of your motorcycle needs! Feel free to stop by any of our locations in Milwaukee, WI, Chicago, IL, and Detroit, MI.