Are you a passionate rider who loves to take the bicycle for a long ride? Do you ride frequently? In that case, you should know how to change your bicycle tires as sooner or later, you will need to replace a tire. There is a possibility that you can experience a flat tire during your bicycle journey. You may not have experienced it yet, but it can happen. Your tires could also be worn out and need to be removed and replaced with new ones.

Whatever the problem may be, a flat tire or worn-out tires, you will need to know how to replace them. You can use many of the tools that you use around your home like the adjustable spanner or pliers, but you may require a pump to ensure sufficient air for tires.

Changing bicycle tires may appear like a mundane chore, but it is very straightforward. Here are the steps on how to change a bicycle tire and get your bike back on track:

1. Tools and supplies

If you want to change a bicycle tear, there’s no need to go out and buy expensive tools. Look at the tools you have at home and gather all the tools you need to change the tire. If you are missing tools, then consider buying the tools that are required.

The tools used include a wrench set or adjustable wrench, a pump based on your valve type, tire levers, a patch kit, multi-tool Allen wrench, screwdriver, pressure gauge, and a valve adapter. Depending on whether you have a regular bicycle or an electric bike, the tools and supplies you need can be quite different.

2. Position the bicycle

First, turn the bicycle upside down and try to balance it firmly with the seat and handlebars. This position will make it easy to remove and replace the tire. Maybe put protection or a cover at the bottom to prevent any damage to your seat and handlebars. You can also just put the bicycle to the side with the chain facing up.

Another option is to buy an upright bike stand that will secure the bicycle as you change the tire. Ensure the position you place your bicycle does not result in any damage to the parts.

3. Detach brake cables

For the next step on how to change a bicycle tire, remove the brake cables. This loosens the tire for both the front and rear tires. You may also have to release the tire axle to access the rear tire. Make sure the chain is not in the way when removing the tire.

4. Unscrew the valve and deflate tires

Because tire beads can be tightly secured to the wheel rim, it needs to be deflated before removing the tire and inner tube. Take off the valve cap and unscrew the valve locking nut to deflate the tire to make it easier to remove.

5. Removal of tires

Tire levers make it easy to remove both the inside tube and top tire off the wheel rim. Once you remove the tires, you can use your tire lever to access and remove the bead and tube. Make sure to use a bicycle lever as it will not puncture your tube or tire.

Use the lever to loosen the inside of the tire all around the wheel. At this point, it will be good to check the inside of the wheel rim to for any sharp edges and to ensure it is in good condition.

6. Installing the new tire

Remove your new tire out of the packaging and check to see if the manufacturer has specified which way the tire needs to rotate. Begin placing the new tire onto the rim by starting from the bottom and guiding the tire onto the wheel rim. You can push the top tire into place by simply using your thumbs to push the bead of the tire into the wheel rim. At some point, you will require your tire levers to ensure a firm placement.

The next step is to insert the inner tube inside the tire by starting from the valve point. Ensure you do not trap the inner tube in the bead of the tire. Once the tube is placed, have a quick check around to see if no bits of the inner tube is poking out before pumping air into the tires.

7. Pump air into your new tires

There are different types of valve for bicycle tires such as Presta and Schrader. Know the valve your tire uses so that you have the correct pump for your bicycle. After placing the tire securely, you can set the tire with the valve on the top to inflate your tire.

Remove the dust cap of the valve, and if it is a Presta valve, you need to unscrew the lock ring before inflating the tire. The pump may have to be screwed on or pushed onto the valve to start inflating the tire. After inflation, make sure to check the pressure level of your tires.

8. Replace new tires onto the bicycle

Once the tires are all pumped up, place it back on your bicycle, reconnect your brakes and chain, and you will be good to go. For the rear wheel, you want to make sure you line the chain with the tire. Also, check if the tire is straight and then fasten the wheel securely to the bicycle core.