How to change a bike tire

1 - How to remove a tubeless-ready bike tire (TLR)?

Remove your bike tire in a clean, dirt-free area. When working with a Tubeless-Ready (TLR) tire, be aware that sealant may splash. Always use proper protective equipment.

Unclip the tire from one side of the rim by pushing the tire bead toward the inside of the rim.

• Carefully place a tire lever on each side of the valve (about 2 inches away) and use them at the same time to pull the tire over the rim hook.
  

• Slide the tire levers along the rim to fully remove the first tire bead.

If your sealant still looks fresh (same color and viscosity), you can reuse it.

Now, remove the bike tire from the rim completely.

2 - How to mount the tubeless-ready bike tire (TLR)?

A Tubeless Ready tire can be mounted with or without an inner tube. When mounting a TLR without an inner tube, sealant must be used to ensure an airtight fit.

Tubeless-Ready compatible rims must also be used (check the compatibility with the rim manufacturer). You must also use compatible rim tapes and valves.

Check the state of your Tubeless Ready rim tape. Any TLR compatible rim tape (adhesive or self-positioning) that has come off should be replaced.

Check the condition of your valve’s rubber base. Check that the valve is tight.

Remove the valve core and check that it is not clogged with sealant.

Insert the tire bead into the rim and make sure the tire-rotation direction matches that of the rim. Start this operation on the side opposite the valve and end at the valve.

Then insert the second bead, again starting on the side opposite the valve and ending at the valve.

• Inflate the tire to seat the beads properly in the rim. You may hear a “pop” sound as the beads settle.

• Do not exceed the maximum recommended pressure on the sidewall of the tire.

• Once the tire is fully mounted, deflate it slightly and add sealant.

• Use the amount of sealant recommended by the sealant manufacturer (varies based on tire volume).

• Reinstall the Presta valve core and inflate the tire.

• Rotate the wheel to spread the sealant evenly inside the tire.

For best results, ride your bike for a short distance to distribute the sealant fully. Check and adjust tire pressure before every ride.

Once the wheel is mounted, check the brake pad alignment to avoid damaging the tire.

Unclip the tire from one side of the rim by pushing the tire bead towards the inside of the rim.

Carefully position a tire lever on each side of the valve (about 5 cm away) and use them simultaneously to pull the tire over the rim hook.

Slide the tire levers along the rim to remove the first bead from the tire.

Now, you can remove the bike tire from the rim.

Carefully check the condition of your rim; first remove the rim tape, so you can insect the rim properly. A badly scratched, damaged or cracked rim should be replaced, since it may affect your bike’s performance. A deformed rim should be repaired by a specialist. Make sure the bottom of the rim is clean.

Start by positioning the rim tape next to the valve hole. The valve can be used to hold the rim tape in position. You can use a tire lever to help you. New rim tape will protect your inner tube more effectively. If the adhesive rim tape has come off the rim, it must be replaced.

Insert one of the tire beads into the rim, starting with the section opposite the valve, and make sure the rotation direction is correct.

Inflate the inner tube slightly (until it is round) and insert it into the tire, starting with the valve. At this stage, the tube should be pliable when pressed.

Then, insert the second bead, again starting on the side opposite the valve and positioning the bead in the base of the rim.

Proceed around the rim, ending at the valve.

Inspect around the entire rim, moving the tire from side to side to make sure it is firmly in place.

Make sure the inner tube is not stuck under the beads, so it does not get pinched when inflating.

Inflate the tire. Do not exceed the maximum pressure indicated on the side of the tire as it could lead to rapid air loss. If you are using a latex tube, sprinkle talcum powder on it to prevent it from sticking to the inside of the tire.

Rotate the wheel to make sure the tire is properly centered.

Adjust the pressure according to your height, weight and riding style.

Important notes for changing a bike tire:

A badly positioned bead can cause an imbalance.

Once the wheel is mounted on the bike, it is important to check the position of the brake pads in relation to the rim to avoid damaging the tire.