do you install your own tires?

[larstorders]

Small G clamp a tyre lever and the small piece of plywood I carry to pop under the sidestand on soft surfaces (to protect the rim) make up my (easily carried, levers fit up inside the frame tube) tyre changing kit. I use Bridgestone BT40s which are pretty tight to get on and off, So,,,, I prefer shorty tyre levers so that I can't put excessive force on the tyre and damage it. Adequate lubrication, technique and a little practice are the secrets to tyre fitting.

[Barry]

G cramp is a nice idea.  I'll try that next time.

[sixfifty]

i just got done changing my rear bridgestone battlax with a new tire of the same.

breaking the bead was miserable, i had to put the tire on the ground and use the kickstand from one of my other bikes (in conjunction with some tire spoon manipulation) to get the bead broken.

cleaned up the rim, and most of the new tire went on fairly smoothly, although i had a hell of a time getting the inserted bead into the dish so i could do the opposite side.

that is one stiff tire.  i have to change the rear brake pads before i put the tire back on, so maybe i'll do that tomorrow.

my wife asked me two or three times why i didn't take it to the local dealer.  i told her i need the exercise.