AVON TYRE QUESTION OF THE WEEK--I Need good tips for mounting and balancing a tire?

--James Dolittle

When mounting a new tire begin by making certain the rim has been thoroughly cleaned. It may require a wire brush. If you leave the speck of old rubber, rust or dirt (even as little as .04 of an inch) the result may be a variation force of 11 lbs. And this may cause motorcycle tires to wobble. Next, lubricate the tire and rim to allow the new tire to seat itself. Lubricating the tire is not done just to help you get the tire on the rim. Lubrication allows the tire to seat itself.

Trying to mount a tire without cleaning the rim and lubricating the beads is like trying to put on a dry sock over a wet leg; you can't get the darn thing straight; it doesn't line up; all the ribs are crooked. Now some people don't care if the ribs on their socks are crooked. I happen to like mine straight.

If you try to mount a motorcycle tire without thoroughly lubricating both beads you stand a good chance of mounting it "tweaked". This is because when the beads first come in contact with the rim, there's tension. If the beads don't slide back and become comfortably seated they will be straining to get straight for the rest of the tire's life. This may cause wobbling and lower mileage so make sure that both beads are thoroughly lubricated with a good commercial lubricant. Soap and water may also be used but be careful in applying so you avoid getting soapy water inside the tire. This may cause the tire to become imbalanced and may also promote the rusting of steel rims.

Also water trapped inside the tire will turn to steam when riding, affecting tire pressure and performance. I strongly recommend against putting sealant and/or balancing fluids in a tubeless motorcycle tire. They tend to mask damage done to a tire by a penetrating object. These fluids continue to fill puncture holes until the object may suddenly be thrown out which may lead to a dangerous blow out. And with the kinds of heavy loading we're getting these days on motorcycles the risk is of concern.

Balancing new tires is also very important. 1.8 ounces of imbalance will result in 110 lbs. of variation force at 80 mph. That may cause a lot of wobble and 1.8 ounces of imbalance is not so uncommon with some manufacturers' tires.

Always have tires balanced at a dealership. Computer balancers are state of the art and you should take tires to places that have them. All tire manufacturers mold a thin line around the sides of each tire close to where the tire meets the rim. This rim line is to help the mechanic determine if the tire is properly seated. Be sure this line is parallel to the rim all the way around on both sides of the tire. If it is not, you must relubricate the beads and try again. After mounting any new tire, remember that most new tires are coated with a compound to help release the tire from the mold during production. Since this may cause slight traction problems, take it easy until the compound is worn off.

Sukoshi Fahey (Ms.)
Sales Manager, North America