A bicycle is one of the most popular and oldest forms of transportation used by mankind. Moreover, it is something with which almost everyone gets familiar in childhood. For children, it is one of first mediums of mobility, which they are provided with. A bicycle is a two wheeler, which is operated by the driver who is seated on the seat and pushes the pedals to move it forward. However, the wheels are prone to punctures, deflation and even wear and tear. In all these situations, the tire, whether front or rear, needs to be removed. Changing the rear tire of a bicycle is not a difficult task and can be accomplished with ease. For tips on how to change a bicycle rear tire, read on.
How to Change a Bicycle Rear Tire
- The first and foremost thing to do is to remove the wheel from the bicycle. New generation latest bikes have a quick-release lever on each axle, using which the wheels can be easily loosened. Once loose, the wheel can be pulled free.
- Older bicycles are usually equipped with two axle nuts holding the wheels in place. With the help of an adjustable wrench, loosen one of the nuts, allowing the wheel to become free.
- Deflate the tire completely.
- Take a tire tool and slide its rounded end between the tire and the rim. Now, gradually remove the tire away from the rim, by locking the free end of the tire tool into the spokes, taking care not to nip the tube.
- Slide a second tire tool between the tire and rim and work with it, until the tire pops free.
- Now, remove the tire and inner tube from the rim.
- For installing the new tire, slip one of its edges around the rim. This can be done with the help of the tire tools.
- Shove the inner tube completely inside the new tire, as far into the tire as possible. Take care to line up the inner tube valve with the valve hole in the rim.
- Push the second edge of the tire onto the rim, even pushing the tube into the tire if needed.
- To install the tire on the rim completely, insert a tire tool between the two.
- Slowly lever the tool upward, forcing the tire over the rim edge. With a second tool push the tube into place.
- Gently place the tire over the rim edge. Be careful and avoid snapping the tire into place, as it may pinch the tube and cause air leaks.
- Inflate the tire to the recommended pressure and replace the wheel on the bike.