How to Change a Motorcycle Tire

💡 Quick Answer: It Takes About 1–2 Hours with Basic Tools

Changing a motorcycle tire at home typically takes 1 to 2 hours with basic hand tools, including tire irons, rim protectors, and a bead breaker. Always check your owner’s manual for torque specs and tire size before starting.

If it’s your first time, work slowly and follow each step carefully — rushing can damage the rim or bead.

🧰 Tools and Materials You’ll Need

• New motorcycle tire (check size and speed rating)
• Tire irons or spoons (2–3 recommended)
• Rim protectors (optional but highly recommended)
• Valve core tool
• Bead breaker or large C-clamp
• Tire lubricant (or mild soapy water)
• Air compressor or tire inflator
• Wheel balancing stand or static balancer
• Torque wrench
• Axle wrench and socket set
• Soft rags or shop towels
• LED work light for visibility (if working in dim areas)

Pro Tip: Many riders upgrade both tires and lighting at the same time — installing Eagle Lights LEDs helps you see better when performing maintenance or riding after dark.

⚙️ Step 1: Safely Lift and Secure the Motorcycle

Start by getting your motorcycle safely off the ground to remove the wheel:

1. Place your bike on a flat, stable surface.
2. Use a center stand or a rear/front paddock stand.
3. If you don’t have stands, a jack with blocks under the frame can work — just be cautious.

Ensure the bike is secure before proceeding. If it wobbles, stop and stabilize it — you’ll be applying pressure later that could tip it over.

🔩 Step 2: Remove the Wheel

Consult your owner’s manual for wheel removal instructions — they vary slightly by bike type.

For Rear Wheels:

1. Loosen the axle nut (but don’t remove it yet).
2. Remove the brake caliper bolts and slide the caliper off the rotor.
3. Release the chain (or belt) tension and slip it off the sprocket.
4. Fully remove the axle nut and axle shaft.
5. Slide the wheel free from the swingarm.

For Front Wheels:

1. Loosen axle pinch bolts (if applicable).
2. Remove the brake calipers and hang them with zip ties — don’t let them dangle by the brake line.
3. Remove the speedometer drive (on older models).
4. Slide out the axle and remove the wheel carefully.

Pro Tip: Keep all spacers and washers in order — take a photo before disassembly for easy reinstallation.

💨 Step 3: Deflate the Tire Completely

Before breaking the bead, you must release all the air from the tire:

• Use a valve core removal tool to remove the valve stem core.
• Allow all air to escape until the tire is fully flat.

This step reduces resistance and prevents the tire from exploding off the rim during removal.

🧱 Step 4: Break the Bead

The bead is where the tire meets and seals against the rim — and it’s usually very tight. You’ll need to break it free before removing the tire.

• If you have a bead breaker tool, use it on both sides of the tire.
• If not, use a large C-clamp or carefully press down with your body weight and tire irons.
• Work around the circumference until you hear a “pop” — that’s the bead breaking loose.

Repeat the process on both sides of the wheel.

🪛 Step 5: Remove the Tire from the Rim

Once the bead is broken, it’s time to remove the tire completely:

1. Apply tire lubricant or soapy water to both sides of the bead for easier movement.
2. Insert two tire irons about 6 inches apart under the bead.
3. Pry upward gently, hooking the tire over the rim edge.
4. Work your way around the rim using short, controlled movements.
5. Flip the wheel and repeat for the second bead.

Tip: Use rim protectors to avoid scratching your wheels — especially on chrome or powder-coated rims.

🔧 Step 6: Mount the New Tire

Before mounting, inspect the rim and new tire:

• Check the rim for cracks or burrs.
• Clean the inner surface with a rag.
• Verify the tire’s directional arrow — it must match the wheel rotation direction.

Mounting Steps:

1. Lubricate the tire bead again with soapy water or tire lube.
2. Press the first side of the tire onto the rim by hand or with tire irons.
3. Insert the inner tube (if applicable) before sealing the second bead.
4. Work the second bead onto the rim using tire irons — small movements prevent pinching the tube or bead.

Pro Tip: Keep the opposite side of the bead in the wheel’s center groove — this reduces tension and makes installation easier.

💨 Step 7: Inflate and Seat the Bead

Now it’s time to inflate your new tire:

1. Reinstall the valve core and connect an air compressor.
2. Inflate gradually while checking the bead to ensure it’s seating evenly around the rim.
3. Listen for two “pops” — one for each side seating correctly.
4. Inflate to the manufacturer’s recommended PSI (listed on the tire sidewall).

If the bead won’t seat, deflate, re-lubricate, and try again.

⚖️ Step 8: Balance the Tire (Highly Recommended)

Proper balancing prevents vibrations, uneven wear, and steering wobble.

• Mount the wheel on a static balancing stand.
• Let it rotate freely — the heavy spot will settle at the bottom.
• Add stick-on weights to the opposite side until the wheel stays level.

Note: If you skip balancing, expect faster tire wear and reduced handling precision, especially at highway speeds.

🔩 Step 9: Reinstall the Wheel

Once the new tire is mounted and balanced, reinstall your wheel:

1. Slide the wheel into position, aligning the axle holes and brake rotor.
2. Reinstall spacers, axle shaft, and nut.
3. Torque to factory specs using a torque wrench.
4. Reattach brake calipers and chain/belt.

Before lowering your bike, spin the wheel by hand to ensure it moves freely and doesn’t rub against any components.

🧠 Step 10: Double-Check Tire Pressure and Safety

• Check the tire pressure again after installation — PSI can drop as the bead settles.
• Verify that valve caps are tight and stem seals aren’t leaking.
• Check all bolts, brake calipers, and spacers one more time.
• Clean any residue from the tire surface before riding.

Pro Tip: Before your first ride, test your lights — Eagle Lights LEDs help ensure maximum visibility during post-maintenance test rides.

💬 Frequently Asked Questions (People Also Ask)

Can I change a motorcycle tire myself?

Yes — with the right tools and patience. Many riders change tires at home to save money and gain experience.

How much does it cost to change a motorcycle tire?

At a shop, expect to pay $40–$100 per tire (mounting and balancing). DIY costs are limited to tools and time.

Do I need to balance motorcycle tires?

Yes. Even slight imbalances can cause vibration and uneven wear, especially on front tires.

How often should I replace motorcycle tires?

Every 3–5 years or 8,000–12,000 miles, depending on riding style and tire type.

Can I use car tire tools for a motorcycle?

No — car tire irons are too large and can damage motorcycle rims. Use proper motorcycle-specific tools.

How do I know my tire bead is seated?

You’ll hear two loud pops and see the tire evenly seated around the rim — check the bead line for consistency.

🏁 Final Thoughts: Ride Safe and Stay Bright

Changing a motorcycle tire is a hands-on skill that every rider can learn. With patience, proper tools, and attention to safety, you can swap your tires, balance them, and hit the road with confidence.

And while you’re working on your bike, consider upgrading your lighting — Eagle Lights LED headlights and turn signals improve visibility, reduce electrical load, and last as long as your new tires — or longer.

Ride safe. Ride smooth. Ride bright.