When you get a flat tire on a single track and you're miles away from the nearest bike shop, it's important to know how to change a mountain bike tire. This simple task requires few tools, is easy to do and will take less than 20 minutes.
Removing the Wheel from the Bicycle Frame
Step 1
Move your bike off of the road or single track away from other riders and hazards. Turn your bike over and rest it on the ground on top of the handle bars and the top of the seat.
Step 2
Wipe the chain off using an old rag. The wheel and other parts will be easier to handle if the drive train is free of dirt, grease and oil. It will also prevent you from ruining your expensive shorts and jersey.
Step 3
Loosen the rear axle by opening the quick release skewer. If your bike has nuts on the end of the axle, use an end wrench to loosen them. Pull the rear wheel away from the frame with one hand. Use your other hand to pull the rear derailleur away from the rear gear cassette.
Step 4
Let the air out of the tire by removing the valve stem cap and pressing down on the end of the valve stem. Make sure that the inner tube is completely deflated before continuing.
Step 5
Insert the end of a plastic tire lever between the edge of the tire bead and the inside of the wheel rim. Press down on the other end of the tire lever until you have pried the tire bead over the edge of the rim. Continue prying the tire bead off of the rim by alternating tire levers, slowly working your way around the wheel.
Step 6
Pry the other bead off of the wheel rim using the directions in the previous step. If the tire has not been permanently damaged, put it aside and inspect the inner tube for punctures and sharp objects embedded in the tube. Replace or patch the inner tube before proceeding to the next step.
Replacing the Tire
Step 1
Inspect the inside of the tire to insure that it is free of sharp objects that could puncture the inner tube. If the tube needs replacing, do so at this time. Fold up the old inner tube and store in your tool kit or in a rear pocket in your jersey.
Step 2
Install the tire onto the rear wheel, carefully sliding the tire bead over the edge of the rim and the inner tube. Work your way around the wheel until the entire tire bead is inside the rim. You may need to use the tire levers to pry the last several inches of the bead over the edge of the rim. Repeat the process for the second tire bead.
Step 3
Cup the running surface of the tire with the palms of your hands. Place your thumbs and fingertips on opposite sidewalls of the tire. Gently roll the tire back and forth to make sure that both of the tire beads are seated inside of the edges of the rim. Work slowly around the wheel until you return to the starting position. Be sure that the tire bead next to the valve stem is completely seated inside the rim.
Step 4
Attach a hand pump to the valve stem and inflate the inner tube approximately 50%. Repeat the step above to make sure that the tire beads remained seated during the initial inflation. Continue inflating the inner tube according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Replace the valve stem cap.
Step 5
Slide the rear wheel onto the bike frame and tighten the rear axle using the quick release skewer or tighten the nuts on the end of the axle using end wrench. Store all of your tools in the tool kit under your seat. Inspect the work area to make sure that you haven't left any parts or trash behind.
Tips and Warnings
- Find a flat, level spot to work before you begin. Clean the drive chain with a rag before you start working.
- Make sure that the rear axle is tight before riding. Never leave old tires or inner tubes on the trail.
Things You'll Need
- Tire levers
- Old rag
- Bicycle pump
- End wrench (optional)
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