How do I change my front tire?

[davo2rich]

I have a Katana 600 and need to take off the front tire. What is the procedure and what tools are required? Thanks

[ckenwright]

Remove the 4 bolts (2 each side) holding the front calipers on. Then remove the bolt that pinches the spindle. Get a 12mm allen and remove the spindle. Pretty easy as long as you have the front end hanging or supported.

[steves]

http://katriders.com/wiki/index.php5?title=Service_Manual

[Killer B]

put that thing on the center stand. Remove calipers (like was mentioned earlier) do not press brake after removing. Then take out axel screw. You might need someone to put weight on backend to lift front up. Remove tire

[Angrytoaster]

Im pretty sure hes talking about the rubber guys.

[mstngsrule68]

well in just a tire case.... a very sharp knife.

[Mojoe]

well in just a tire case.... a very sharp knife.

ok....no offense intended to the OP, but I am not sure it is a good idea to suggest using a sharp knife. considering the fact that most males learn how to remove a tire from a rim way back when we had peddle bikes as kids/teenagers, I believe it is safe to assume the OP does not have a lot of mechanical experience. this would also likely mean that he has very little "technique", which would come in very handy when you go up against tough rubber and steel belts, with a sharp knife. if he were to follow that advice, me thinks it be wise if he tossed the rim and the knife into the trunk of his car and go park someplace close to an emergency room and do it there....just in case.

go to youtube and search for "how to remove motorcycle tire from rim". it's a resource many overlook, and the "how to's" are much easier to follow than any manual. you actually get to watch a guy do it.

also, pay attention to what he says about your brake discs. don't go dropping your wheel down on them. you can scrap them pretty easily.

anyway...here's how:

[ame="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Pfp2Z9k0n0"]YouTube - SCUDMAN How to remove a motorcycle tire[/ame]

[steves]

Well, most people use "tire" and "wheel" interchangeably. I usually assume they mean "wheel."

[SlipKid]

I use a harbor freight bead breaker:

http://www.harborfreight.com/bead-breaker-92961.html

And a set of 3 motion pro tire levers:

http://www.motionpro.com/motorcycle/tools/category/16__steel_tire_iron/

You can use some rim protectors:

http://www.motionpro.com/motorcycle/tools/category/rim_protectors/

...or just cut-up some old milk jugs to use.

I also use Yamaha tire lube spray (soap and water is NOT as good):

http://www.parkeryamaha.com/yamaha-tire-mount-lube.aspx

So, once you have these items, it should be fairly easy with some practice. Just remember to slip the bead to the center of the rim on the side opposite to the one you are prying on. Have fun!

ps. Sometimes I find a rubber mallet comes in handy to help persuade the tire to slip off the rim on the back side:

http://www.harborfreight.com/1-lb-rubber-mallet-39646.html

[cyclefvr2]

its worth the money to take it to a shop, you can ruin a rim if you dont know what your doing, scratch it all up, over/under tighten the axle and pinch nuts ect...
and they will prolly give you a dicount on the tire if you get it from them!

[chrisx2]

Thanks for sharing...looks quite feasible...the only hang up I guess I'd have, is balancing once the new rubber is on....I'd still have to bring it in for that.

[jbo197]

This is how you balance....

I balanced mine by using the axles and 2 concrete blocks.
Worked like a charm ~

[ame="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8WHkSPZJ3fI&feature=related"]YouTube - SCUDMAN Balancing[/ame]

[SlipKid]

I use something similar to this to balance with (you'll need some stick-on weights):

http://www.harborfreight.com/motorcycle-wheel-balancing-stand-98488.html

To me, taking a tire to the shop is a total waste of time and money.

A, because they tend to overcharge for their tires, and who knows how long they've been sitting on the shelf...

B, because shop rates are ridiculous...

C, because it would take me longer to drive there than to do the tire...

D, because I want it to be done correctly...

E, because you'd miss quality time wrenching on your scoot...