Tire mounting

[nert]

Does anybody mount their own tires on their rims with common motorcycle tire irons? I do my own tube type for the BSA, and Norton, but have not tried tubeless cast wheels. Easy to do?, don't do it? any advice?
thanks

[w8d4it]

I used to mount my tube type but sadly don't own any older bikes any more.  Never tried to mount a tubeless motorcycle tire but have done so with car tires. Had to use the old tourniquet trick to get the tire to catch the bead.   Don't bother to do so anymore.  Don't know if you would have to do so with a motorcycle tire.

[BigD]

I've done it.  Easy?  I don't know.  Sometimes.  Sometimes not so much.  I think a good wheel stand to hold the wheel in place is important.   Lot's of plans on YouTube for one of those.

I use a NoMar tire changer now.  Is that easier?  Sometimes.  Sometimes, not so much.

[OHRider]

Originally Posted by BigD

I've done it.  Easy?  I don't know.  Sometimes.  Sometimes not so much.  I think a good wheel stand to hold the wheel in place is important.   Lot's of plans on YouTube for one of those.

I use a NoMar tire changer now.  Is that easier?  Sometimes.  Sometimes, not so much.

+1 on the NoMar

[atrophy]

+2 on the no mar.

[DaMonk45]

I mount my own. The Nomar is a great tool.
I do not have the pressure sensor so that is a headache that I dont have to worry about.
Breaking the bead is the big issue.
Different tires will have a different sidewall stiffness. So easy or
hard will depend on the tire.
Some are easier than others.
Only way to find out is to do one.

[brbo]

Even with the correct technique and rim protection I would not recommend levers on a cast wheel - its not something I could master or duplicate positive results each time so I decided a cheap alternative that takes up less than 3'x3' in the corner of the garage...

I use these three tools - mount the changer on a wood pallet to stand on for leverage - and buy a tub of saddle soap - simple, quick, and cheap alternative after a few changes you'll become a pro - and lots of buddies will show up for a swap you can charge them for and your equipment will be paid very quickly...

The key is to do a few tires and you'll master it - the soap needs to be put under the inner tire's edge, a light coat applied by finger and starting the lever in the correct position so that it finishes in the correct position and lastly and most importantly how you lean on the tire on the opposite side from the lever to keep the tire in the center of the rim...

I've done all sorts of tubeless tires some of the stiffest 4 ply out there in 18"/21" combo, once you figure it out 180/190 rears become the easiest..

The bottom of tire changer has a great bead breaker too !!

(Click pics for links):   

[Datum 28]

not any different than any sport bike profile tire.... I use bikemaster irons - rounded smooth and chrome plated - they don't scratch the finish... there are several lengths... I have used tire irons/levers on 10 bikes I have owned that had cast tubeless wheels/tires. it's no different, only you don't have to worry about the tube itself. A nice changing stand gets the tire up where you can work on it comfortably.... anything else is a waste of money/space in your garage unless you are doing this every single day.