How to Replace a Bike Tire

There is nothing that will improve your ride more than new tires. Installing them is relatively easy.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Bike Tire Inner Tubes
• Bike Tire Repair Kit
• Bike Tires

1. Remove your old tire. First deflate the tube, then work one side of the tire off with tire levers. Remove the tube and set it aside, then pull the old tire off the rim.
2. Inspect your rim tape. Does it properly cover all the spoke nipples? Buy a new rim strip if necessary.
3. Inspect your tube. Is it still in good condition? Is it a good match for your new tire - is it wide or narrow enough?
4. Check the sidewall of the new tire. Some tires are directional. Look for an arrow.
5. Install the new tire halfway on the rim.
6. Inflate your tube a small amount and install it evenly in the tire, starting with the valve.
7. Using your hands this time, work the other side of the tire back onto the rim, being careful not to pinch the tube. Once you have done this, you may need to seat the valve stem - simply push up on the stem so that the tube sits properly in the mounted tire.
8. Inflate the tube until the tire has assumed its proper shape - usually about 10psi. Inspect the tire to make sure that it is seated properly on the rim.
9. Inflate the tire to the psi specified on the sidewall.

Tips & Warnings

• You don't necessarily have to replace you old tire with one just like it - there are many options. Do a bit of research to determine whether you would be better served by a different type of tire. See related eHow "Buy a Bike Tire."