Replacement bike tires?

Question

So here's the situation. I pulled my old bike out of storage and lets say there are a few problems. I've fixed most but, I'm looking at replacing both tires because they are splitting. I found a tire i like, but I dont know how to put it on my wheel once I get the other tires(26 X 2.1) off. Also, if the tire im looking at is 26 X 2.3, can i use the same tube, or should I buy a new one, if so what size?

http://www.rei.com/product/737792

Answer 1

The wider tires (2.3 v. 2.1) may cause problems if your frame doesnt have enough clearance, Clarence.  Its also possible your brake levers (if you have vbrakes) will interfere.    

If the 2.3's do fit your frame, then you'll likely need new tubes.  

Mounting a tire is easy.  First get one of the beads (inside edge of the tire that is usually quite stiff) inside the rim.  The other bead will be outside the rim.  Then put the valvestem thru the rim and feed the tube inside the tire.   Then put the outside bead inside the rim; you'll need a tire lever to help you here; do not use a screwdriver!   As you get most of the bead in, you'll find the last foot or so to be tough.  Lay the wheel flat on your lap, with the area to be finished directly opposite you and use both hands to work the tire...you kinda 'roll' the last part of the tire onto the rim.

Put a few lbs of air in the tire and check to see that the bead is seated on the rim and that no part of the tube is bulging out.  If the tube is out, let out all the air and work the tube back in before trying again.

Answer 2

Go to your local bike shop and have them replace the tires. Many shops have seminars on maintenance and repairs.  If you only know one thing about bikes, it should be how to change a flat tire in case you get a puncture out on the road.  Most bike shops are happy to show you how things are done.

The 2.3 tires should fit OK on the old rims, but chances are the tubes are as old or older than the tires and they should be replaced too.

Check the rims for rust spots and clean them up as needed. This could save you a lot of trouble with flat tires.