tire changing, garage and trail

[Copsey, Stephen J (Steve)]

Hi, A couple of tips: On the trail I've used steep grassy banks to lay the bike against to get the back wheel off the ground. Lay your jacket down if you're concerned about the tank paint. I'm going to try leaning it against a tree with the sidestand next time - good tip, why didn't I think of that before? I spent many an un-happy hour in the garage trying to get tires seated on the rim properly, until I started using lubricant of various forms. It is SO much easier ! Lately I have been using some cheap hair shampoo which works a treat (smells nice too...) Apply liberally with a brush after you put the tube in and work into a lather (only kidding on that) and the tire will slip on with no sweat, and seat itself with less than 30psi. Trust me, forget sunscreen - use shampoo! On the trail slosh some of your drink over the tire. If that doesn't work at least you can go a few miles at reduced speed with the horrible square tire syndrome, back to civilization (to buy some shampoo?) Rear Cheng Shins seem particularly tight, other big name brands much looser. Strange that - you would expect the opposite. I hate tire changing by the way.... Oh yes - workshop stands. I bought a cantilever device from a motocross shop. Well worth the 30 pounds or so. Shove it under the sump, stand on the lever and hey presto - off the ground. Heaving a 650 onto a crate is not my idea of fun. Steve KLX (- never heard of one of those round 'ere.)