6879the beads of the tyre inwards to where the spokes are,
into the ‘well’ in the middle of the rim.
6
Remove the old tube
When removing the old tube, work back towards the
valve. The valve stem will have a locking nut, which must
be removed; then carefully remove the tube. Examine
the tube and see where the damage is. A little hole can
be repaired, but damage around the valve area means a
replacement. Also check for damage from spokes, sharp
objects protruding through the tyre, or debris inside.
7
Fit the new tube
The cost isn’t particularly a problem, but this is where
it pays to have spares on hand. Place a lever near the valve
to create some space and lift up the sidewall to fit the new
tube. Loosely place the locknut back on the valve. Working
from the valve out, push the tube into the tyre, making
sure there are no twists or folds. Just a little air pressure
in the tube now will sort out any kinks or wrinkles.
8
Lever the tyre back onto the rim
Make sure the tyre is pushed down into the well and
slowly work around the tyre, levering it back over the rim.
It is important not to push your lever in too far, onto the
tube – this is where most pinches occur: over-reaching
with the lever. Take little bites.
9
Tighten the rim lock
When levering the tyre back on the rim, tyre lube
should always be used. Various types of lube will work,
but oils may let the tyre move on the rim after fitting, or
damage the tyre itself. Undiluted dish washing liquid is a
good choice. Lastly, nip up the rim lock and the valve stem
lock nut, being careful not to overtighten either.
10
Other handy tools
Reinsert the valve core and pump up the tyre. There
are a few tools on the market to make the job easier – not
the least being a compact electric compressor. For riders
with fancy rims, plastic rim savers clip over the rim to
avoid scratches from tools. When levering the tyre on or
off, some people like to use a ‘bead buddy’ to hold the
sidewall down in the well.
Thanks to Hawko at Hawkins
Racing and Rebuilds, Aberdeen
Ph: 0498 402 786amcn.com.au 79
10Great: a blowout at sunset
with a howling icy wind in
Patagonia. All the luggage
was tied to the front end to
keep the bike upright