Tire Replacement Tutorial (Universal for Front & Rear Wheels, Beginner-Friendly)
1. Preparation Tools & Materials
- Essential Tools: Socket wrench (6-14mm), adjustable wrench, 2 tire levers, air pump, soapy water (for lubrication), brush (for cleaning)
- Replacement Materials: Vehicle-compatible inner tube + outer tire (prefer original specifications), tire repair file/sandpaper (backup)
- Safety Gear: Gloves (to prevent cuts), goggles (to prevent debris)
2. Replacement Steps (Taking Rear Wheel as Example; Front Wheel Is Simpler)
Step 1: Pre-Safety Operations
- Turn off the power and pull out the key. Prop up the electric bike with both the main stand and side stand, and stabilize the body with bricks to prevent tipping;
- For disc brake models, use a caliper locking tool to secure the brake disc in advance to avoid damaging the brake system during disassembly.
Step 2: Remove the Wheel Assembly
- Drum brake models: Loosen the brake cable adjustment nut to separate the brake shoes from the hub; Disc brake models: Unscrew the caliper mounting bolts, remove the caliper, and place it properly (do not pull the brake hose);
- For chain-equipped models: Loosen the rear fork tensioner and remove the chain;
- Use a socket wrench to unscrew the rear wheel axle nut, take out the axle pin, and pull the rear wheel backward as a whole. Be careful to protect the motor wires (avoid pulling the Hall sensor wire for brushless motors).
Step 3: Disassemble the Old Tire
- Release all remaining air from the inner tube. Insert a tire lever into the gap between the rim and tire bead, pry open a gap, then insert the second lever and gradually pry open one side of the outer tire bead along the circumference;
- Take out the inner tube, then use the same method to pry open the other side of the bead and remove the old outer tire;
- Clean the rim with a brush. Check for burrs, deformation on the rim edge, and loose spokes (repair any issues first).
Step 4: Install the New Tire
- Outer Tire Lubrication: Apply soapy water evenly to the outer tire bead to reduce installation resistance;
- Inner Tube Preparation: Inflate the new inner tube slightly (to form an oval shape) to avoid wrinkles or punctures during installation;
- Embed the Outer Tire: First press one side of the outer tire bead fully into the rim groove, then insert the inner tube between the outer tire and rim in the correct direction. Ensure the valve stem aligns with the rim valve hole without twisting or pinching;
- Press the Bead: Use tire levers to gradually press the other side of the bead into the rim along the circumference. For the last few centimeters, press firmly with both hands. Never use sharp tools like screwdrivers (easily puncture the inner tube).
Step 5: Inflation, Leak Detection & Reset
- Step-by-Step Inflation: First inflate to 0.5bar (low pressure), rotate the tire to check if the bead is fully attached to the rim, then gradually inflate to the manufacturer's recommended tire pressure (marked on the outer tire sidewall, usually 2.0-2.5bar);
- Leak Detection: Apply soapy water to the valve stem, tire surface, and bead. No bubbles indicate qualification;
- Reinstall the Rear Wheel: Insert the rear wheel axle pin into the fork, pre-tighten the axle nut and then tighten it to the manufacturer's torque. Reset the chain (adjust tension), brake system, and reconnect the motor wires;
- Test Ride: Ride slowly for 1-2 km, check the brakes, tire pressure, and for any abnormal noise. It is ready for normal use if everything is in order.
Simplified Version for Front Wheel: No need to handle the chain or motor wires. Directly unscrew the axle bolts to remove the front wheel. Subsequent steps are the same as the rear wheel. Note the tire tread direction (the arrow points to the riding direction).