ninjette.org - View Single Post - DIY- Changing Tires on the 250R

headshrink · October 3rd, 2009, 10:08 PM

I did it!

This is very doable, and having the proper tools makes it much easier.
One of the hardest parts for me was making sure I didn't chip the paint, or mar the rim, but being methodical is what this is all about.

I used the bead breaker from HF, as well as the balancing stand.... I know you don't NEED a dedicated stand, but I only had to buy it once. I was using traditional rim protectors, but had to send my wife for a tropicana jug to finish getting the last lip on. I aligned the red dot with the valve stem, but wouldn't you know it, those suckers stuck straight up on the balancing stand... looks a little ugly with 5 weights taped next to the stem. The adhesive tape on the weights are a little thicker than the ones the dealer used on the back, so it shows a little and is ugly.... but I now have a reasonably balanced, new front tire on my bike, AND I got to punch my man card!

One thing I will do differently next time is buy one more tire iron. I have 2, which were enough for some parts, but 3 makes it much easier and may be necessary on stubborn tires.

October 3rd, 2009, 10:08 PM	#67
headshrink ninjette.org certified postwhore Name: Bob Location: CA Join Date: Dec 2008 Motorcycle(s): '08 Ninja 250r, '14 CBR500r Posts: A lot.	I did it! This is very doable, and having the proper tools makes it much easier. One of the hardest parts for me was making sure I didn't chip the paint, or mar the rim, but being methodical is what this is all about. I used the bead breaker from HF, as well as the balancing stand.... I know you don't NEED a dedicated stand, but I only had to buy it once. I was using traditional rim protectors, but had to send my wife for a tropicana jug to finish getting the last lip on. I aligned the red dot with the valve stem, but wouldn't you know it, those suckers stuck straight up on the balancing stand... looks a little ugly with 5 weights taped next to the stem. The adhesive tape on the weights are a little thicker than the ones the dealer used on the back, so it shows a little and is ugly.... but I now have a reasonably balanced, new front tire on my bike, AND I got to punch my man card! One thing I will do differently next time is buy one more tire iron. I have 2, which were enough for some parts, but 3 makes it much easier and may be necessary on stubborn tires.