Yesterday decided to mount new Michelin City Grip on my bike---wheel removal all done with on board tools I carry....on the ground as training if I ever have to do this on trip. Cardboard on floor for knees/padding. Rear wheel has never been off----Kenda tire worn square at 3717 miles----caused rear wheel steering/goofy leaning....worst in 10 maxi scooters and over 400,000 miles with them.....and to think there are idiots who put car tires on scooter rear.
So bike is very well put together....I am glad I did first time in my garage where I have access to "heavy duty" stuff if I really need it. Only used longer breaker bar on rear axle. Muffler/ rear fender have to come off, along with rear calipher/brake line. Muffler weighs between 20 and 30 lbs---care must taken no to screw up muffler joint packing (I am going to order a couple of spares)---My take, all this complication in rear wheel removal=BS!
Tire removal and mounting used my lift as raised work platform----I have good bead breaker, lots of tire levers, experience, even used my 24 inch India tire iron on final tire removal from rim. New tire went on easy/ my air tank provided enough blast to seat bead on 1st try----bead seating uniform. I use "Ride On" as balance aide----went in easy on lift table. Air held overnite. Some tire iron marks on grey painted rim.
Test ride today---ok, much easier to corner, ride ok maybe a little better, balance fine.....now lets see how long tire lasts and if performance changes as miles pile up.
Note: next wheel removal will use lift-----lots of exercise laying on floor.....no need for gym. Hope I never have tire problems on trip.
