When it comes time to replace a tire on your ten-speed, you will need to both a tube and tire. The tube is the middle portion of the tire that goes flat. Tires on ten-speeds are similar to what you find on any bike. Replacing the tire requires removing the rim to get past the frame and braking hardware. Once you have the tire off the bike, putting a new one in is a straightforward process.
Step 1
Place the bike in a repair rack or turn it over so the wheels are facing upward.
Step 2
Press a ball point pen or another thin object against the center of the valve in the tire to let out the air. The valve is the stem that protrudes on the inside of the tire surface. If the tire is completely flat, skip this step. Flattening the tube allows you to pull off the rim without disconnecting the brake.
Step 3
Remove the rim. The method will depend on the style of bike you own. If you see a lever in the center of the wheel, pull up on it. If there is a nut in the center, place an adjustable wrench on it and turn it counterclockwise. Grab the wheel and yank upward until it comes off the bike frame.
Step 4
Slide a screwdriver between the rim and tire. Push the driver under the rubber of the tire until it comes out the other side. Carefully push up on the screwdriver and push outward to force the tire off the rim. Repeat this process in different spots around the rim until the tire is completely free.
Step 5
Insert a new tube into your replacement tire. Push the tube into the hollow center of the tire with the valve facing you.
Step 6
Remove the cap from the valve stem and inflate the tube approximately 1/4 of the way with an air pump. This holds the tube inside the tire while you reinstall. Follow the directions on the pump for proper use.
Step 7
Line the valve stem up with the hole cut into the tire rim. Grab the stem as it passes through to the underside of the rim and then replace the cap.
Step 8
Squeeze the sides of the tire and place them inside the rim edges. The sides of the tire are known as the bead. The bead should sit on the inside section of the rim. Work your hands around the tire and push the bead inside the rim edges.
Step 9
Reinstall your rim onto the bike and them fully inflate the tube with an air pump. Once the tire is secure, remove the bike from the stand or flip it back over so the wheels are on the ground.
Tips and Warnings
- If your valve stem is missing the cap, simply pull it through the rim and hold it while you position the bead.
- Riding a bike with a flat tire will damage the rim. Avoid bending the rim with the screwdriver when you remove the old tire.
Things You'll Need
- Ballpoint pen
- Adjustable wrench
- Screwdriver
- Tube
- Air pump
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