Removing and replacing a rear tire is a little tricky as the electric motor/battery is connected to the rear wheel but with practice, you can master this simple task. Sometimes, it is hard to find a professional especially if you are on a hike; therefore, a biker needs to know the basics of a tire change.
It’s good to have your bike locked to a bike stand before changing the rear wheel but don’t worry if you are out in skirts and don’t have one, we have you covered here too. Turn your bike upside down on the handlebar and seat.
Remember to carry some basic tools in your bag for an emergency. Some basic tools list which are light and easy to carry are given below
TOOLS NEEDED
- Crescent wrench for axle
- Screwdriver
- Allen key
- Wire cutters or scissors
- Zip ties or tape
- Bucket to hold small parts
Some parts on an e-bike may differ due to manufacturer or change in the company but the general steps remain the same. Just follow these techniques to change your tire like a pro.
STEPS
Gear setting: Change the chain down onto the smallest cog in the cassette and highest gear this will help the rear wheel removal and installation much easier.
Moving Bike Tip: If you are riding the bike and feel that the rear wheel is punctured, try to shift to the smallest cog and ring before stopping.
Parked Bike Tip: If the bike was parked and you observe a soft tire then lift the bike by the seat and move the chain to the smallest cog by pedalling by hand. You may have to move the lever several times before getting the desired result of the chainring.
Position of the Bike: Flip the bike upside down on the handles, seat and back rack and be careful about the LCD and other small components on the handlebar or invest in a bike stand if you are handy in dealing with bike issues.
Lever Adjustment: Check for the quick release lever somewhere in the middle of the upper e-bike back tire and turn it about 180 degrees to loosen it.
Motor Cable Removal: Unsecure/ disconnect the electrical motor cable coming from the controller with both hands. Lay it out to the side to avoid snugging. If there are any zip ties or clips that are securing the wire, clip them off.
Removing Bolts: Check for the rubber capped bolt holding the tire in the frame and remove it from the derailleur side. If bolts are not loosening easily use a wrench or Allen key counterclockwise to loosen the nut and brake calliper.
Fender Adjustment: Loosening the fender will allow you to have more space while taking the wheel out. Remember to put your screws in a box.
Remember Position: Remember to note the position of each part, especially the axle and washer’s connection with the frame. While pulling back the derailleur to have some area, swiftly pull the tire out.
Disk Brake Protection: Be careful on the disk brake side. Bring the tire out straight to avoid bending the disk into the calliper. Take it to a workshop for replacing the puncture instead of carrying the whole e-bike.
Air Checking: Check the tire air through air valves more often in summers and especially before reinstalling the wheel in its place, place the wheel in its place and push inside.
FAQs
Q1: What is the estimated time needed by a layman to change a rear e-bike tire?
Ans: If you have experience and have been doing this gig for the past few months or years then it should hardly ever take you above 10 minutes to change your tire. However, an inexperienced newbie might take up to or more than 20 minutes. It all comes down to practice.
Q2: How often should I check the air in my tires?
Ans: It is good to check the air of your tire before every trip especially before hiking on mountains. Look on the sidewall of the tire to know the recommended pressure of the tire. Keep a tire pump or gauge to measure it in Pounds per Square Inch (PSI).
Q3: Can any workshop change the tire of an E-bike?
Ans: Not all workshops are trained in dealing with e-bikes and if they are they may not be able to deal with all brands. Get in touch with your service provider to get a hold of a genuine person for the repairing task of your e-bike.
I hope this guide helped you change your e-bike tire. Next time don’t hesitate to change your tire yourself. Well, what are you waiting for? It’s time to bike to the stars!
