How to Take Off a Dirt Bike Tire

Honda CRF 250R

Dirt bike tires commonly become worn and need replacement. Also, many dirt bike owners may have more than one set of tires for their motorcycle, such as knobby tires for dirt riding and paddle tires for sand riding. It is important to be able to take the tires off your dirt bike.

Things You'll Need

• Crescent wrench (monkey wrench)
• Hammer
• Old rag

Instructions

1. Roll the dirt bike to a flat, accessible location, and place the bike on a center stand. It is important to take all pressure off the tire.

2. Use a crescent wrench to loosen the lug nut. Unscrew the nut fully and pull it off the lug bolt. Place it and its washer aside.

3. Pull the square bracer out of the swingarm and set it aside as well.

4. Use a hammer to thump the lug bolt gently and start its way through the axle shaft. Then, once you have thumped the bolt as far as is reachable, grip the other side of the lug bolt using an old rag and pull the lug bolt the rest of the way out. Set it, and the square bracer on the other side, aside.

5. Slide the tire slightly forward and roll the chain off the tire's sprocket. Then, gently maneuver the tire out of the braking assembly. Pull the spacers from between the tire and the swingarm on both sides, and set them aside.

6. Pull the tire gently away from the motorcycle, being careful not to scratch the motorcycle's swingarm or the parts on the tire itself (especially the brake disc).

Tips & Warnings

• Have someone help you hold the tire while you attempt to remove the lug bolt and spacers.

• Always use caution and stay aware of pinch points when working around movable motorcycle parts.