Detach the tire with the quick release:
Since the tire was flat, I could pinch the tire so it could move past the front break. It made it easier to remove. and I did not have to adjust the front break. (Which is a pain in the ass)
The tire is removed and on the table. In the left hand side of the picture is the quick release bolt.
It takes a little bit of squeezing, but get the tire over the rim. Then put a flat head screw driver and run it around the rim. This gets one side of the tire off the rim so you can get the rest off.
There is probably a fancy tool that is better than the screw driver, but this works.
Remove the tube from the tire. I like to pump up the tube to see where the leak is coming from. Mainly to see if the rim is poking into the tube/
I listened for air seeping out and found the spot. Then I put some regular dish soap on the spot and looked for the bubbles. It didn’t look like a puncture, so I assume it is just use of the tire. I have owned the bike for over 3 years and this is the first time I have had to change the front tire tube. (See the small air bubble by the seam of the rubber)
More evidence of a leak. (Bubbles by the seam) NOTE: I ride a lot of side walks and along normal highways; so the wear on the tires is probably more than if you rode on a bike trail. For me to get to a trail is about 5 miles. I love riding on the trails, but I have limited time so I can only ride them on the weekend and occasionaly during the week.
The new Specialized tire tube from Bike Works in Orlando, FL
Take a look at the rim and rubber “Thing” on the rim. Make sure that there are no spikes or holes through this that could cause more punctures. Just spin the rim around and see if there is metal or spokes peeking through. the rubber liner.
Coat the new tube with baby powder. I have an 18 month and 5 year old, so baby powder is all around. The powder helps reduce friction when installing the new tube.
Put the valve into the rim. This gives you a good guide when putting the tire on.
I inflate the tube a little. It make it easier to put the tire on.
Add a little baby powder to the inside of the tire. I will help installing the new tube.
It takes a little work, but get the tire around the tube and the rim. One thing that helps is to inflate the tire a little. It prevents it from slipping off the rim and the tire/
When the rim is off the fork, inflate and make sure everything fits. Then deflate the tire. This makes it easier to get it back on the fork.
Squeeze the tire and slip it past the break. Now is the time to inflate; after it is installed.
Pump up the tire with the $12.00 Target tire pump.
Check your tire pressure and write it on the rim. I never remember what I started the tire pressure off at. Write it on the rim will help you remember.
Make sure you put the cap on the tube. It prevents dirt from getting in
DONE !!!! You have replaced a tire tube. This took me about 10 minutes to do including taking the pictures for the blog post.
