The Nighthawk Has a New Tire on and is Ready to Roll!

This job took me much MUCH longer than it should have, but I got a new rear tire on, and it’s been going great.

Notes for next time: rim protectors were invented for a reason!!

I ordered my new wheel off of BikeBandit.com (many props to their new adaptive website, I know I railed on about it being bad in December!) using the mobile version of their website. It’s an Avon RoadRider, and while I don’t have much experience with those, so far I’m happy.

The tire came in just as we had a string of rainstorms, so the removal and install went slow.

I’m very happy that I used the two smaller handled tire irons with the 24″ large tire iron that I got from Harbor Freight. It was the tool trifecta, for sure.

I got the rear wheel off with the help of those tools, a couple YouTube videos (which just kind of affirmed that I was doing it correctly) and patience. One day I’ll have a fully equipped garage to work with! One day!

Getting it on was one of the harder tasks. I ended up using the ratchet strap technique for setting the bead, which helped immensely. A large problem that I was having was with the air compressor – the equipment I was using was not right for the application so I went to AutoZone and purchased a new fitting for the end (which broke when I first used it). Eventually it worked, of course.

The equipment I used and set out for doing the job.

It doesn’t look like it should be so hard.

Removing the valve core from the tire to let the air escape fast.

Bead is broken and the wheel is lubed for liftoff

The tire is nearly off of the hub, i’ve just got to persevere and hope it doesn’t rain.

The tire is so close to being off.

Finally, it’s all removed. Now I have to get the new wheel on it!