Tyre valves - tight fit

[monkeycabbage]

I spent a couple of weeks up in Lincolnshire last month and after 4/5 days, even though I hadn't used the bike much, thought I should check my tyre pressures. I pulled up at a garage, shoved my 50p into the machine, and then spent 2 mins swearing at my wheels because I couldn't get the nozzle onto the valve because of the lack of clearance with my discs, and the pump times out.   

Now this doesn't normally happen, I usually find it a snug fit... but then again, I always use go to the same garage! I was so annoyed that I got on the bike and went a couple of miles down the road to the next garage. Guess what?... The same thing happened! 

So... went down to another garage in the center of town... machine out of order!! 

Surprisingly, 4th time lucky!!  Even though it was a tight fit.

It's made me wonder, what if I suddenly realised that I needed air? Maybe a slow puncture? What if I was in an urgent rush? What should be a 5-10 min nip to the garage took just over an hour in the end.

I'm not sure how much clearance the new TT has around the wheels, but I've just picked up one of these to leave in the front pocket in case I get caught out, and thought I'd share and suggest that many of you may want to do the same!! http://www.mandp.co.uk/productinfo/506332/Tyres/Valves-and-Caps/Economy

[Berber]

The New Trophys have right angled tyre valves. It is a shame all bike manufacturers do not do the same. 

[monkeycabbage]

As a quick word of warning (Please tell me if I'm wrong here on any point), The new TT may come with angled valves, but when you get new tyres, you usually have new valves fitted. Most places I know of just put in standard straight ones.

I have asked in the past for an angled valve and they've tried to charge me £10 per wheel extra!! 

[w8d4it]

Not in my US experience.  In any event if you go to dealer you should expect OEM parts.

[cropbiker]

With the TPMS they don't pull the valve stems as they are integral to the TPMS

[w8d4it]

Originally Posted by cropbiker

With the TPMS they don't pull the valve stems as they are integral to the TPMS

Ah yes good point Cropbiker. I should have pointed that out. 

[cropbiker]

Although it is probably worth telling the tyre guy before he starts work so he DOESN'T pull it by mistake and cost a lot more money!!!!! Most places won't be used to bikes having TPMS systems.

[Verdun95]

what's why unless emergency I would have the tyres change made at the dealer's