Technical Manual 3-1
Figure 3-1. Rim Strip
WHEELS AND TRANSMISS
WHEELS AND TRANSMISS
WHEELS AND TRANSMISS
WHEELS AND TRANSMISSIONS
IONS
IONS
IONS
MOUNTING TIRES ON WH
MOUNTING TIRES ON WH
MOUNTING TIRES ON WH
MOUNTING TIRES ON WHEELS
EELS
EELS
EELS
Install a rim strip or rim tape; this protects the tube from punctures caused by the tips of the
spokes and the spoke nipples. Align the hole in the rim strip for the valve stem with the hole in
the wheel rim.
Some tires have a certain rotating direction marked on their sidewall. Generally, any V in the tread
pattern should open toward the rear of the direction of tire travel. On our trikes, we often
mount the right rear wheel with the cassette mount on the inside, but it doesn’t really matter.
Mount one side of the tire on the rim, and then push the
inner tube into the partially mounted tire. Make sure
the tube is not folded or twisted. After the valve stem is
situated, use the tire levers to force the second side of
the tire onto the wheel rim. Take care not to pinch the
inner tube as you go. Some tires may prove to be very
tight and difficult to lever onto the rim; warming and thus
softening the tires--as well as lubricating with soapy
water--may help get them on.
Before inflating, rotate the tire and tube around the rim
as needed until the valve stem sticks straight out of its
hole. Inflate slightly and, before inflating further, check to
make sure that the tire is seated evenly on the rim.
Finally, inflate the tire to its highest recommended pressure.
Some of our vehicles utilize high pressure (80 to 110 psi) tires for lower rolling resistance on
pavement. Many tire models on the market are rated for a maximum of 45 to 60 psi. Sometimes
people choose to inflate these medium-pressure
tires over the rated pressure so that they roll
more easily. Be aware that over-inflation is not
recommended by the tire manufacturer.
If the tire still does not want to seat correctly,
then deflate to 15 or 20 PSI. Squirt some Windex
or dish soap on the trouble spot making sure to
work it in below the bead. Then re-inflate the tire
to desired PSI. The lubrication should help the
tire to seat itself.
For safety reasons, insert the quick release axle
into the wheel so that the quick release handle is
on the side opposite the disc brake if at all possible.
Figure 3-2. Tire Assembly