How to Change a Tire on a Dirt Bike: Step-by-Step

How to Change a Tire on a Dirt Bike: Step-by-Step

Can you change a dirt bike tire yourself? Yes, you absolutely can change a dirt bike tire yourself with the right tools and a little patience. This guide will walk you through the entire process, from prepping your bike to getting that new rubber mounted and ready for the trail. We’ll cover everything you need to know for a successful dirt bike flat tire repair or a complete motorcycle tire change.

Preparing for the Tire Change

Before you even touch your dirt bike’s wheel, proper preparation is key. Gathering the right tools and materials will make the process smoother and less frustrating.

Essential Tools and Materials

New Dirt Bike Tire: Ensure you have the correct size and type for your bike and riding conditions.
New Tube (if applicable): If you’re not running a tubeless dirt bike tire setup or a mousse insert, a new tube is crucial for a flat fix.
Tire Levers (Dirt Bike Specific): You’ll need a set of sturdy tire levers dirt bike riders trust. Having at least two, preferably three, is ideal. Look for durable ones that won’t bend or break.
Valve Stem Tool: This small tool helps remove the valve core to let air out quickly and tighten the valve stem.
Rim Protectors: These plastic guards clip onto your rim to prevent damage from the tire levers.
Bead Breaker: This tool helps push the tire bead away from the rim, which is essential for getting the tire off. Some bikes have built-in bead breakers, or you can use a dedicated tool.
Air Compressor or Pump: You’ll need a way to inflate the new tire.
Water or Soapy Water: This helps lubricate the tire bead and the rim, making installation easier.
Gloves: To keep your hands clean and improve grip.
Shop Rags or Towels: For cleaning.
Torque Wrench (Recommended): For properly tightening axle nuts.
Wheel Bearing Grease: To lubricate and protect your wheel bearings during reassembly.

Optional but Helpful Items

Tire Changing Stand: Elevates the bike for easier wheel removal and installation.
Tire Spoon: A longer, curved lever that can make prying the tire easier.
Rim Locks: If your bike is equipped with them, you’ll need to be mindful of their position.
Mousse Insert (if applicable): If you use a mousse insert dirt bike, the process is different, and you won’t need a tube. This guide primarily focuses on traditional tire and tube setups.

Removing the Wheel from Your Dirt Bike

The first major step is getting the dirt bike wheel and tire assembly off the bike. This process varies slightly between the front and rear wheels.

Rear Wheel Removal

The rear dirt bike tire replacement often involves more components than the front.

Support the Bike: Use a bike stand to lift the rear of the bike securely off the ground. Ensure it’s stable.
Loosen the Axle Nut: Locate the large nut on the axle. Use a socket wrench or appropriate wrench to loosen and remove it. You might need to hold the opposite side of the axle with another wrench to prevent it from spinning.
Relieve Chain Tension:
- Locate Chain Adjusters: Most dirt bikes have chain adjusters on the swingarm. You’ll need to loosen these to allow the wheel to move forward.
- Loosen Adjuster Bolts: Turn the adjuster bolts counter-clockwise to push the wheel forward.
- Slide Wheel Forward: As you loosen the adjusters, the wheel will move forward, creating slack in the chain.
Remove the Chain: Once you have enough slack, you can slide the chain off the rear sprocket. It’s a good idea to let it hang or place it on a rag to keep it clean.
Remove Brake Caliper (if necessary): On some bikes, the brake caliper might need to be removed or swung out of the way to allow the wheel to pass through. Check your bike’s manual. If you need to remove it, keep track of the bolts.
Slide the Axle Out: With the axle nut removed and the chain off, you should be able to slide the axle shaft out from the hub. You might need to gently tap it with a rubber mallet.
Remove the Wheel: Carefully pull the wheel out of the swingarm. Be mindful of any spacers or washers that might fall out. Note their positions for reassembly.

Front Wheel Removal

The front dirt bike tire removal is generally simpler.

Support the Bike: Use a bike stand to lift the front of the bike securely off the ground.
Loosen Axle Pinch Bolts: Most front forks have pinch bolts that hold the axle in place. Loosen these bolts on both sides of the fork.
Remove the Axle Nut (if applicable): Some older bikes or specific designs might have an axle nut on one side. If so, remove it.
Slide the Axle Out: With the pinch bolts loosened, you should be able to slide the axle out from the fork legs. Again, a gentle tap with a rubber mallet might be needed.
Remove the Wheel: Carefully pull the wheel out from between the fork legs. Watch for any spacers that might be present.

Breaking the Tire Bead

This is often the most challenging part of changing a dirt bike tire. The bead is the edge of the tire that seals against the rim.

Position the Tire: Place the dirt bike wheel and tire on a stable surface, like the ground or a sturdy workbench.
Use a Bead Breaker:
- Dedicated Bead Breaker: If you have a dedicated tool, position it over the tire bead and apply pressure to push it down and away from the rim. Work your way around the entire circumference of the tire on both sides.
- Improvised Methods (Use with Caution): Some riders use the kickstand of another dirt bike, a car tire, or even carefully step on the sidewall near the rim. Be extremely careful with these methods to avoid damaging the rim or the tire.
Inspect the Bead: Once the bead is broken on one side, flip the wheel over and repeat the process for the other side. You should be able to see a clear gap between the tire bead and the rim.

Removing the Old Tire

With the bead broken on both sides, you can now begin removing the old tire.

Deflate Completely: Ensure all air is out of the tube. If you haven’t already, remove the valve stem core using your valve stem tool.
Use Tire Levers:
- Start Opposite the Valve Stem: Insert the curved end of a tire lever under the tire bead, opposite the valve stem.
- Pry the Bead Over the Rim: Lever the bead up and over the rim edge.
- Insert Second Lever: Immediately insert a second tire lever a few inches away and pry the bead over the rim.
- Work Your Way Around: Continue moving the tire levers around the rim, prying sections of the bead over the edge.
- Be Patient: This can require some force. If it’s very difficult, ensure the bead is still properly broken all the way around.
Remove the First Side: Once you have a good section of the bead over the rim, you can often slide a lever around the rim to pull the rest of the bead off.
Remove the Tube: Reach inside the tire and pull out the old tube.
Remove the Second Side: Flip the wheel over and repeat the lever process to remove the second side of the tire from the rim.

Inspecting and Preparing the Rim and New Tire

Before installing the new tire, it’s crucial to inspect everything.

Rim Inspection

Check for Damage: Look for any dents, bends, or cracks in the rim.
Clean the Rim: Remove any old rubber residue, dirt, or debris from the rim.
Inspect Rim Strip/Tape: If you have a tubeless setup or a strong rim strip, ensure it’s in good condition and properly seated. For tubed tires, check the rim strip for any sharp edges or damage that could puncture the new tube.
Check Wheel Bearings: While the wheel is off, it’s a good time to check your wheel bearings. Spin them to feel for roughness or play. Clean and re-grease them if necessary.

New Tire Preparation

Check Tire Direction: Most dirt bike tires have a directional arrow molded into the sidewall indicating the correct rotation. Ensure you install it facing the correct way.
Warm Up the Tire (Optional but helpful): Some riders place the new tire in the sun or near a heat source (carefully!) to make it more pliable and easier to install.

Installing the New Tire

This is the reverse of removal, and lubrication is your friend here.

Lubricate the Bead: Apply water or soapy water liberally to the bead of the new tire and the rim.
Mount the First Bead:
- Start Opposite the Valve Stem: Place the tire onto the rim, ensuring the correct rotation direction. Start with the bead opposite the valve stem.
- Use Hands as Much as Possible: Push the bead down into the rim with your hands.
- Use Tire Levers Carefully: As you get closer to the valve stem, you’ll likely need tire levers to work the last section of the bead over the rim.
- Leverage Against the Rim: Place the levers so they pry the bead up and over the rim edge. Avoid damaging the rim or the tire.
Install the New Tube (if applicable):
- Slightly Inflate Tube: Put just a little bit of air into the new tube to give it shape. This helps prevent it from getting pinched between the tire bead and the rim.
- Insert Tube: Carefully insert the tube into the tire, aligning the valve stem with the valve stem hole in the rim.
- Thread Valve Stem: Screw the valve stem nut on loosely to hold the tube in place. Don’t overtighten.
Mount the Second Bead:
- Lubricate Again: Apply more lubricant to the second bead and the rim.
- Work it On: Start by pushing the bead into the rim with your hands.
- Use Tire Levers: As with the first side, you’ll likely need tire levers for the last section.
- Be Mindful of the Tube: As you lever the second bead on, be extremely careful not to pinch the tube between the tire bead and the rim. You can use a tire lever to hold the first bead down while you work the second bead over.
- Rim Locks: If your bike has rim locks, ensure they are positioned correctly and that the tire bead seats properly around them.

Seating the Tire Bead and Inflating

Once the tire is fully mounted, you need to seat the bead and inflate it.

Check Bead Seating: Go around the tire on both sides, ensuring the bead is evenly seated all the way around the rim. You should see a consistent gap between the rim and the bead line.
Inflate to Seat:
- Quick Inflation: For a quick bead seat, a burst of high-pressure air can help. Some people use a compressor with a blowgun or a tire-inflating canister. Listen for a pop as the bead seats against the rim.
- Steady Inflation: If you don’t have a high-pressure inflator, use your air compressor or pump. Inflate the tire steadily.
Check Tire Pressure: Once the bead is seated, adjust the dirt bike tire pressure to your desired level. This will depend on your bike, the terrain, and your riding style. Consult your bike’s manual or experienced riders for recommendations. Common pressures for dirt bikes range from 10-20 PSI.

Reinstalling the Wheel

Now, it’s time to get the wheel back on your dirt bike.

Rear Wheel Reinstallation

Position the Wheel: Maneuver the wheel back into the swingarm.
Install Spacers: Make sure any spacers are in their correct positions.
Slide in Axle: Guide the axle back through the swingarm and the hub.
Put Chain Back On: Drape the chain back onto the rear sprocket.
Adjust Chain Tension:
- Use Adjuster Bolts: Tighten the chain adjuster bolts to pull the wheel back into position and achieve the correct chain tension. There should be a small amount of slack (usually around 1-2 inches) in the chain when you push it up and down. Refer to your bike’s manual for specific measurements.
- Align Wheel: Ensure the wheel is running straight and centered in the swingarm. The chain adjusters have marks to help with alignment.
Tighten Axle Nut: Once the chain tension is correct and the wheel is aligned, tighten the axle nut. Use a torque wrench if possible to ensure it’s tightened to the manufacturer’s specifications.
Reinstall Brake Caliper: If you removed it, bolt the brake caliper back into place.
Tighten Pinch Bolts: Tighten the axle pinch bolts on the fork (if applicable).

Front Wheel Reinstallation

Position the Wheel: Guide the wheel back between the fork legs.
Install Spacers: Ensure any spacers are correctly placed.
Slide in Axle: Slide the axle back through the fork legs and the wheel hub.
Tighten Axle Nut (if applicable): If your front wheel has an axle nut, thread it on and tighten it.
Tighten Pinch Bolts: Tighten the pinch bolts on the fork legs to secure the axle. Ensure the wheel is straight before fully tightening.
Check Brake Alignment: Make sure the brake rotor is properly seated in the brake caliper.

Final Checks

After the wheel is reinstalled, perform these final checks:

Spin the Wheel: Rotate the wheel by hand to ensure it spins freely without any rubbing or binding.
Check Brakes: Spin the wheel and apply the brakes to confirm they are working correctly.
Check Axle Tightness: Give the axle nut and pinch bolts a final check to ensure they are secure.
Check Tire Pressure: Double-check your dirt bike tire pressure.

What About Mousse Inserts?

If you’re using a mousse insert dirt bike, the process is different. Mousse is a solid foam insert that replaces the inner tube.

Installation: Mousse inserts are typically lubricated with a special mousse lubricant before installation. They are then inserted into the tire, and the tire is mounted onto the rim.
Pros: Eliminates flats, provides a consistent feel.
Cons: Can feel firmer than an air-filled tire, can degrade over time, and requires specific installation lubricant. The weight distribution is also different.

Changing a tire on a dirt bike is a skill every rider should have. While it might seem daunting at first, with practice, you’ll become proficient. This allows you to quickly address a dirt bike flat tire repair on the trail or at home, keeping you riding. Remember to always consult your bike’s specific manual for any unique procedures or torque specifications.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: How often should I change my dirt bike tires?
A: This depends heavily on your riding style, terrain, and tire compound. Aggressive riding on abrasive surfaces will wear tires out much faster. Visually inspect your tires regularly for tread depth, cracking, and any signs of damage. As a general guideline, you might consider changing them every 20-50 hours of riding or when the tread is significantly worn down.

Q: What is the best way to break the bead on a dirt bike tire?
A: The safest and most effective way is to use a dedicated bead breaker tool. If you don’t have one, carefully using the kickstand of another dirt bike or a car tire can work, but be very cautious to avoid damaging the rim or yourself.

Q: Can I use automotive tire levers on my dirt bike tire?
A: While it might be possible in a pinch, it’s not recommended. Dirt bike tires and rims are different, and automotive levers might be too large, too sharp, or not strong enough, potentially damaging your rim or the tire bead. Always use tire levers dirt bike specific.

Q: What is the correct dirt bike tire pressure?
A: Dirt bike tire pressure varies. For a tube-type setup, it’s commonly between 10-20 PSI. For tubeless setups or mousse inserts, the “pressure” is different. Always check your bike’s manual or consult experienced riders for your specific bike and riding conditions. Too low pressure can lead to pinch flats or rim damage; too high can reduce traction.

Q: My new tire has a directional arrow. Which way should it face?
A: The directional arrow on the sidewall indicates the correct direction of rotation. Ensure the arrow points forward in the direction your bike travels. Installing it backward will significantly affect handling and traction.

Q: What are rim locks for, and how do they affect tire changes?
A: Rim locks are devices that screw into the rim and press against the tire bead on the inside. They help prevent the tire from spinning on the rim, especially at lower tire pressures, and reduce the risk of pinch flats with a tube. When changing tires, you need to ensure the tire bead seats correctly around the rim lock.

Q: Is it okay to use soapy water to lubricate the tire bead?
A: Yes, a mild soapy water solution is a common and effective lubricant for mounting and dismounting tires. It helps the bead slide over the rim more easily and can also help the bead seat properly when inflating. Avoid using petroleum-based lubricants, as they can degrade the rubber of the tire and tube over time.