Total Motorcycle Community Forums

For some time, I've mounted bias ply tires on both my dirt and street bikes using a motorcycle tire mounting tool from Harbor Freight. Worked well on bias ply tires, but I've never tried it out on radials.
I need to change the rear tire on my Bandit next spring and I'd like to save a few dollars if possible.
I've heard radials are harder to mount, but I don't know anyone that's tried.
Has anyone had any experience and was it any more difficult?
Anything to watch out for?

Thanks.

Jack.

Might take a little extra elbow grease, but here's a few pro tips...
1. Get the bead down into the recess of the wheel. It's designed to make it easier.
2. Lube. Use it.
3. Leverage is your friend.
4. If it's feeling like it would be easier to lift the bike than put the tire on the wheel, something is wrong. Don't be afraid to re-try it.
5. Heat up the tire if at all possible. We've always left the tire in the sun for a half hour or so, or put it next to the heater for the same amount of time. If you can barely touch the tire, it's just about right.

Definitely possible, use those tips and it'll go on a lot easier.

Thanks.
Doesn't sound any worse than some of the motocross knobbies I've mounted.
I doubt I'll tackle it this winter, but I do have a salamander heater that would warm the tire up nicely.
I've used soapy water from a spray bottle, in the past. That seems to work OK, or do you know of a better lube?

Thanks again

Jack

Yup, soapy water is fine, and if you've ever mounted sand paddles, rest assured street radials are a whole lot easier.