The invention of quick release bicycle tires made the process of changing a flat much simpler for long distance road cyclists and rough terrain mountain bikers. They allow you to simply flip a lever to take the wheel out of the forks, thus eliminating the need to carry a socket set or adjustable wrench with you every time you go riding. Knowing how to change your own bicycle tires will save you time and money the next time you get a flat.
Step 1
Shift the bike into the smallest gear sprocket on the rear gear cluster if you are changing the back tire. Reach down to the lowest portion of the chain and pull it toward the front of the bike so the derailleur arm is fully extended. Lift the chain off of the front chain ring and then lift it off of the rear gear cluster.
Step 2
Turn the valve stem cover counterclockwise until it comes off, then push the inner stem down to deflate the tire. Grab the quick release lever on the wheel axle and turn it down to release its pressure on the forks. Slide the tire out of the forks and carefully set the bicycle down.
Step 3
Squeeze the deflated tire together at any part of the rim and insert a tire lever. Pry the tire up over the lip of the rim by folding the lever in toward the center of the wheel. Pry up another section of the tire about 6 inches from the first lever using a second tire lever. Remove the first lever and use it to pry up more of the tire 6 inches beyond the second lever. Continue unseating the tire bead until it is all completely outside of the rim.
Step 4
Take the tire and the inner tube off of the rim. Patch the puncture in the inner tube or replace it altogether for severe flats. Push the deflated inner tube into the tire with the valve stem facing up. Lead the valve stem through the hole in the rim, then force the tire beads into the grooves in the rim.
Step 5
Insert the nozzle of your bicycle tire pump over the valve stem and fill the inner tube to the correct pounds per square inch pressure rating. Lift the bicycle forks back onto the drop bolt of the wheel. Once the tire is fully seated, lift the quick release lever to lock it in place. Place the chain back on the chain ring and rear gear cluster if necessary to continue riding.
Things You'll Need
- Tire levers
- Bicycle tire pump
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