Changing a motorbike tyre might seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and guidance, you can do it yourself. Follow this step-by-step guide to discover how to change a motorbike tyre like a pro, and get back on the road in no time. Ready? Let’s get started!
New motorbike tyre
Jack or motorcycle stand
Valve core tool
Clean microfibre cloth
Air compressor or hand pump
Ready to change a motorbike tyre? Firstly, you’re going to want to park your motorbike on a flat, stable surface, and turn off the engine. If your motorbike has a centre stand, use it. Otherwise, use a jack or motorcycle stand to lift the bike off the ground.
Once the motorbike is off the ground, remove the valve cap from the tyre’s valve stem. Use a valve core tool to depress the valve core and release the air from the tyre. Once deflated, remove the valve core completely.
Now that your tyre is deflated, insert the flat end of a tyre lever between the tyre bead and the rim. The bead is the seal on the inside edge of the tyre that fixes it to the rim. Use another lever a few inches away to hold the first lever in place.
Then, carefully pry the tyre bead over the rim by gently moving the lever along the circumference of the tyre. Work your way around the tyre until one side of the bead is completely free. Then, repeat the process on the other side of the tyre. You should then be able to gently pull the tyre away.
One the tyre has been fully removed, it is a good idea to take a second to wipe down the wheel rim and the inside of the new tyre to ensure there is no debris or residue. This is a super important step when you change a motorbike tyre!
Using a squirt of WD-40® Multi-Use Product and a clean microfibre cloth, gently work away any visible buildup. The innovative formula helps to break down any grime, ensuring it can be wiped away effortlessly, whilst protecting the rims from rust formation thanks to its water displacing properties.
Now that the surfaces are prepped and ready to go, it’s time to install your new tyre! Firstly, spray a squirt of WD-40® Multi-Use Product around the rim of the wheel. This will help to slide it onto the rim easily with its lubricating properties. Then, insert one side of the new tyre’s bead onto the rim. Use your hands to push the tyre bead over the rim until it’s in place. Then, using tyre levers, work your way around the rim to gradually lift and fit the second side of the tyre bead onto the rim.
Once your tyre is fitted securely, insert the valve core back into the valve stem and tighten it using your valve core tool. Connect an air compressor or hand pump to the valve stem and gradually inflate the tyre to the recommended pressure (this is usually indicated on the sidewall of the tyre). Once it is fully inflated, take a second to ensure that it is seated correctly, and adjust if necessary.
Now that your new tyre is fitted, carefully lower the bike back to the ground. Double-check all fixings and connections to ensure everything is secure, and put the valve cap back on the valve stem. Once you are happy, take your motorbike for a slow test ride to ensure the tyre is properly seated and balanced.
The uses shown and described for WD-40 Multi-Use Product were provided to WD-40 Company by the users themselves. These uses haven’t been tested by WD-40 Company and do not constitute a recommendation of suggestion for use by WD-40 Company. Common sense should be exercised whenever using WD-40 Company products. Always follow the instructions and take heed of any warnings printed on the packaging.
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