REPLACING A BICYCLE TIRE? EASILY DO IT YOURSELF!
A flat tire or worn tread is always inconvenient. But you don't have to rush to the bike shop. With the right tools, you can replace your bike tire yourself. In this blog post, we'll explain step-by-step how to replace your inner tube, rear tire, or tubeless tire.
When should you replace your bicycle tire?
A cracked sidewall, a worn-out tread, or a flat tire you can't patch? Then it's time to replace your bike tire. If your tire isn't holding its pressure properly, it's also possible the valve stem or inner tube is damaged. Get started!
Note: a good tire not only provides comfort, but also grip, safety, and reduces the risk of breakdowns. So always pay close attention to the signs and replace your bike tire in time. This prevents accidents and unsafe situations.
You should replace your bicycle tire if there is a crack in the sidewall, a worn-out profile or a flat tire that you can no longer patch.
Replacing the tire on your front wheel
Changing a front tire is a breeze. There's no derailleur or chain to get in the way, so you can get straight to your destination. Changing a front tire on an electric bike (e-bike) or cargo bike is a breeze. If you're ordering a new tire, be sure to check the tire size.
1. Place your bike in a stable position, for example, upside down on the saddle and handlebars. Loosen the quick-release or wheel nuts and remove the front wheel from the fork.
2. Deflate the tire by turning the valve stem open. Then use a tire lever to pry off one side of the tire. Remove the inner tube and check the inside of the tire for any sharp objects. This will prevent your new tire from immediately going flat again. Repairing tires is always an option, of course, but prevention is better than cure!
3. Place the new inner tube (and a new rim tape, if applicable) back into the tire with a little air in it, insert the valve through the valve hole, and work the tire completely back onto the rim. Check that the tire is properly seated on the rim and then inflate it to the correct pressure.
4. Place the wheel back into the fork, tighten everything firmly and check that the wheel turns freely.
Bonus tip: A properly inflated tire with an air pump makes a world of difference. Use a reliable bicycle pump with a pressure gauge, like the ACID Pump RACE UHP , and you'll be fine. After replacing your tire, you'll be back on the road with the correct tire pressure.
Replacing the rear tire of a bicycle: a bit more work, but doable
The rear tire is a bit trickier than the front tire, because you have to deal with the bike chain, cassette, and derailleur. Still, it doesn't have to be complicated.
1. Changing a rear tire? Make sure your bike is stable. Use a work stand if you have one, or turn the bike upside down on its handlebars and saddle. Shift to the smallest rear cog. This reduces chain tension, making wheel removal easier.
2. Loosen the quick-release or nuts and pull the wheel back slightly, clearing it from the dropouts. Carefully lift the chain off the sprocket and set the wheel aside. Pay close attention to the position of the chain and derailleur so you know how to put the wheel back on later.
3. Deflate the inner tube completely. Open the valve and gently squeeze the tire to push out the last of the air. Use a tire lever to loosen one side of the tire from the rim. Start opposite the valve and work slowly toward you. Remove the inner tube and check the tire inside and out for sharp objects such as glass or small stones. Use a flashlight if necessary to get a good look.
4. Lightly inflate the new inner tube so it's slightly full and less likely to kink. Insert the valve through the valve hole in the rim. Carefully insert the inner tube into the tire. Then work the tire back onto the rim, starting opposite the valve and ending at the valve itself. Check that the inner tube isn't pinched anywhere between the tire and the rim.
5. Inflate the tire to the correct pressure. You can find this pressure on the sidewall of the tire. When inflating, check that the tire sits evenly on the rim and rises evenly.
6. Now it's time to reinstall the wheel. Place the chain on the smallest cog and slide the wheel back into the frame. Make sure the derailleur bends back properly and the axle fits neatly into the dropouts. Tighten the quick-release or nuts firmly. Then check that the wheel is properly aligned and turns freely.
Final check: also check that the brakes are properly adjusted and that the derailleur shifts smoothly. If everything is as it should be, your bike is ready to ride again.
Bonus tip: A properly inflated rear tire not only provides comfort and grip, but also prevents excessive wear on your cassette and chain. So don't forget to check your tire pressure regularly, especially if you ride frequently and for long distances.
Replacing a bicycle inner tube: step by step
First, check the tire. Are there no sharp stones or glass? Then you can install the new inner tube. First, place one side of the tire back onto the rim. Lightly inflate the new inner tube to give it some shape and place it neatly inside the tire. Insert the valve stem through the valve hole in the rim.
Now comes the most exciting part: getting the tire completely back onto the rim. Start opposite the valve and work your way toward it. Often, you can do this with your hands. If you can't get it out, use a tire lever, but be careful not to pinch the inner tube.
Inflate the tire to the correct pressure (you can find this on the sidewall), check that everything is properly seated, and replace the wheel. Don't forget to check that the chain is properly positioned.
Replacing a tubeless bicycle tire: a bit more technical, but easy to learn
Tubeless riding has many advantages: less chance of punctures, more comfort, and grip at lower tire pressure. But if you want to replace a tubeless tire, the process is slightly different.
First, release all the air. Then, lever the tire out. Discard any remaining latex sealant and clean the rim thoroughly. Check the tubeless rim tape for proper fit and replace it if necessary.
Next, mount a new tubeless tire and pour new sealant into the tire. Spin the wheel to distribute the sealant evenly. Then, inflate the tire firmly (with a floor pump or compressor) until the tire "clicks" into the rim flange. If you hear a few pops, you're good to go. Check that the tire fits snugly and then lower the pressure to your normal riding pressure.
Helpful tips
- Use as few tire levers as possible to prevent damage to your rim or inner tube.
- Check the rotation direction of your tire: usually indicated with an arrow on the sidewall
- It's better to replace your tire early than late. A worn tire not only wears out faster but also increases the risk of a puncture or accident.
- Don't forget to replace your valve cap. This protects the valve from dirt and moisture.
Everything you need to replace your bicycle tire
Whether you ride a city bike, a racing bike, or a mountain bike, CUBE Stores has everything you need to change your tires yourself. Think inner tubes in all sizes,tubeless sealant , tire levers , and powerful bicycle pumps . Our favorite for on the go? The compact ACID Pump RACE UHP . Powerful, lightweight, and easy to carry.
Changing your own bike tire is easier than you think. And with a little practice, you'll be back on the pedals in no time. Want to be sure you choose the right tire or pump? Visit one of our stores or contact us. We're happy to help.