How to Prevent Wheel Damage When Changing a Tire

No matter what type of bike you ride, you want to make sure you and your mechanic follow best practice tire-changing procedures to prevent wheel damage. Improper tools and techniques can wreak havoc on your wheel and even on other parts of your bike, such as its OEM motorcycle fairings. Either way, bad tools and techniques can severely impair your bike’s handling and performance. Here are some of the best practices available for changing a tire without damaging your wheel.

1. Correct Tools

Once you’ve purchased your desired motorcycle tires for sale price, make sure you have the correct tools to get the job done. From tire irons and breezer tire and valve core tools to spray-on silicone lubricant, it pays to use the tools recommended by your bike’s manufacturer and often included in the manual. For example, it’s better to use a special bead breaker than whaling on your tire with a hammer and risking damage to your rim. Incorrect tools can cause you to inflict damage on your wheel, creating even more problems and putting a dent in your wallet or pocketbook.

2. Rim Protectors

When you use tire levers to get the bead up and over the rim, the likelihood of nicking or dinging the rim is high, especially if you’re trying to do this all by yourself. Invest in rim protectors, small pieces of foam that you can fit between the rim and the tire lever. This is a simple and inexpensive way to save yourself from damaging your rims and shelling out money for a whole new set!

3. Rim Maintenance

Once the tire is off your bike, don’t just reach for the new tire and stick it back on. Take some time to scrutinize your rim, looking for signs of rust, old rubber or dirt and debris. These types of damage can affect your bike’s performance over time, so it’s worth tackling any maintenance before you replace the tire. Steel rims are particularly prone to rust. Experts recommend wire brushes and anti-corrosion sprays to deal with rust and keep it at bay.

4. Hands-On Help

Unless you’re an expert, it’s a great idea to have a buddy help you out with your tire-changing venture. Two sets of hands can speed the process, provide greater control and reduce the change of damage to the wheel, especially when it’s time to get to grips with the tire levers. It’s typically tricky to grapple with the tire levers all by yourself!

4. Reliable Resources

Your local motorcycle shop or trusted retailer is your reliable resource for tools, techniques and advice on changing tires. From time-tested techniques to tips and tricks and new products on the market, they have the inside track on what you need to know to prevent damage to your wheel, rims and even your OEM motorcycle fairings.

When you buy the best motorcycle tires and change them yourself or have your trusted mechanic do the honors, you want them to go on without damaging the wheel. Stick to the best practices outlined above to reduce your risk of wheel damage.Changing a Tire