How to remove and install the rear wheel on a scooter: I share my experience

Hi all!

Winter is coming to an end and it's time to start preparing your equipment for the motorcycle season. The first thing to do is look at the condition and wear of the wheels. Check to see if the tires are flat and assess the tread height. And if you decide that there is a lot of wear, then you can order a tire inexpensively online or buy it in a store at a reasonable price, since it’s not the season yet.

In this article I will explain in detail how to remove the rear wheel on a scooter, in which situations you cannot do without it. On Honda dio I will show all the steps of removing and then installing the rear wheel in its place. I’ll explain how I do this in practice, since I have extensive experience with motorcycles.

The best touring motorcycle tires

This rubber is capable of withstanding long marches of many kilometers, as well as high speed conditions.

Michelin Pilot Road 4

This model is produced in three versions: Trial - touring enduro, GT - classic motorbikes for tourism, as well as a standard version that combines the advantages of both types.

Pros of the Michelin Pilot Road 4

1. The tires are not afraid of aquaplaning and behave confidently on wet and dry roads.
2. The two-component compound consists of a hard center and softer side parts, which ensures long tire life.
3. The combination of diagonal and radial cord construction provides excellent handling.

Cons of Michelin Pilot Road 4

1. Increased cost of goods.
2. Long warm-up time in cold weather.

Continental ContiMotion

These summer motorcycle tires from Germany are used for touring and sports bikes. The tire tread features an innovative pattern that helps maintain stability in any weather.

Pros of Continental ContiMotion

1. The extended shoulder area allows you to confidently make turns and other maneuvers without losing stability.
2. The frame includes a steel tape, which makes them resistant to mechanical damage.
3. Excellent grip on the road surface, including in flooded areas, is provided by grooves of various sizes.
4. Long working life due to enhanced rubber compound composition.

Cons of Continental ContiMotion

1. High price.

Metzeler Roadtec Z6

This model of the German company is distinguished not only by its excellent driving performance, but also by its attractive tread pattern design. Tires are not afraid of hydroplaning due to the effective removal of water from the contact patch.

Pros of the Metzeler Roadtec Z6

1. Maintaining directional stability regardless of road conditions.
2. Uniform maintenance of pressure on the rubber ensures long tire life.
3. The wavy groove in the center of the tire reduces vibration when driving.

Cons of Metzeler Roadtec Z6

1. Rapid tire wear.

How to remove a wheel without removing the muffler

If a scooter has a punctured wheel, it can be replaced without removing the muffler. It is usually secured to the engine with 4 bolts. The exhaust system of some Chinese-made moped models consists of several parts that are connected by fasteners. They can be removed one piece at a time, making tire replacement easier. This recommendation can be used if there is no time or opportunity to carry out the full procedure according to the rules. In the case where the muffler is made in the form of a solid block, the only option is to bend it to the side. This can be done in case of emergency replacement of a broken wheel.

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If the muffler consists of several compartments, those parts that interfere should be removed. These can be side mounts, knee and plastic. There are variations in designs when it is enough to move the weakened pipe to the cylinder through the gasket. Next, unscrew the fastenings on the sides and remove them so that nothing unnecessary gets in the way.

Important!

Before installing all parts back, check the condition of the gasket. If it has shrunk and cracked, it needs replacement.

Tires for a scooter

Scooter tires are one of the most important consumable items responsible for the safety of the vehicle driver on the road. The choice of motorcycle tires for a scooter is extremely important, despite the fact that they are not purchased very often. Tires for scooters provide a level of comfort for the driver during the trip, good handling and stability of the vehicle. In the motorcycle tire market, the most widespread are Chinese-made motorcycle tires, followed by Taiwanese-made models. In addition, every year Chinese auto and motor tires are increasingly replacing expensive European models.

The choice of motor tires, which is presented on the domestic market, is as follows:

KENDA are motorcycle tires for scooters made in Taiwan, extremely popular among motorcycle enthusiasts. The so-called “herringbone” tires are especially popular, i.e., Kenda model motorcycle tires with two treads, as well as a model with one tread resembling a pattern of wavy lines. The latter type of tires is perfect for asphalt and smooth city roads. According to the advice of experienced motorcyclists, it is not recommended to use tires with an aggressive tread pattern in urban conditions, since during movement the tread blocks cling to the asphalt quite strongly, creating increased resistance and excessive vibrations. But at the same time, these motorcycle tires are indispensable for country and dirt roads, which is especially noticeable when they are installed on the front wheels. DURO - scooter tires made in China, which are distinguished by fairly high quality indicators and a fairly affordable price

But when using them on wet roads, it is imperative to take increased precautions due to their high rigidity. PIRELLI - Italian-made motor tires. MICHELIN - French tires of fairly high quality. METZELER - have a high level of softness and stability on the road, and are also durable and suitable for any road. The DUNLOP and BRIDGESTONE brands represent motorcycle tires made in Japan, which are installed at manufacturing plants on the wheels of Japanese motorcycles. They are of very high quality.

Dismantling the wheel of a Honda Dio scooter

Many city novice drivers cannot change the tube and separate the tire from the rim on their own, relying on tire shops. However, no one is safe from a nail lying on the road or a tire puncture. The procedure for disassembling Japanese mopeds can be handled without turning to specialists for help. However, it should be kept in mind that the most difficult part of the process is seating the tire on the rim.

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During use, the tire is so firmly attached that it can only be torn off using machines. The average motorcycle enthusiast does not have such a unit. Therefore, you will have to use improvised means - corners.

On a note!

Some models of Honda Dio scooters come with disc brakes. To avoid bending anything, it is important to remove the brake disc before mounting the tire.

How to dismantle the front wheel on a scooter?

• You should deflate the tire, place a metal corner under the rim and beat the tire with a hammer. At the same time, it is important not to hit the same place many times. There is a possibility of damaging the disc and causing a hole. After a couple of blows, it would be correct to shift the angle in a circle and repeat the movement. Continue manipulations until the tire comes off. The procedure is then repeated on the other side of the front wheel.
• At this stage, you will need factory tire mounting tools. Insert the crowbar under the rubber and turn it out so that it does not jump out. Pull back a little more and finally pull the tire out. The crowbar remains in place. Make the same movements in a circle, using the required number of “mounts”. As a rule, the rubber is easily removed halfway through the journey.

Tires are not beaded with wrenches and screwdrivers

The best touring motorcycle tires

Touring motorcycle tires have a dual purpose - to support movement at high speeds and cover long distances. This is a universal option to drive with the breeze and travel a long way from point A to point B.

Continental ContiRoadAttack 2 - for those who love to travel

If your motorbike is used for long trips in the summer, then the best motorcycle tires are the ContiRoadAttack 2 series from a well-known brand.

As the name itself suggests, the tires are designed to confidently conquer long distances. At the same time, their speed index corresponds to the sports level, although the product belongs to the tourist category. Their price is by no means cheap, but such tires will last up to 7-8 seasons.

Pros:

• the speed index allows the motorcycle to accelerate up to 270 km/h;
• excellent stability when cornering;
• interesting tread pattern with multidirectional lines to quickly remove trapped water and maintain high traction;
• models with a width of 110-120 mm can be installed on both the front and rear wheels;
• there are tires with a low profile of 60 mm and with a high profile of 90 mm;
• Fits 17-19 inch wheels;
• For the rear wheels, the range includes tires with a width of 180 mm;
• The line name is engraved on the tread and serves as an additional design element when the wheels are not rotating.

Minuses:

• cost from 8000 rubles;
• Due to their strongly oval shape, motorcycle tires are less stable when driving around the yard at low speeds of 5-10 km/h.

Shinko SR 723 - Travel in style

And again, a product from this manufacturer was included in the rating of the best motorcycle tires, only this time in the category of road tires. The SR 723 series tires feature a more stable tread with a complex pattern that provides reliable grip even on wet asphalt.

These tires will allow you to use your motorcycle from early spring to late autumn.

The highlight of the product is the ability to order a tire with a white sidewall, which attracts attention and increases the stylishness of the appearance.

Pros:

• The advantage of road tires is their cost from 2200 rubles;
• tubeless technology;
• nylon cord for strengthening the structure has four layers;
• stylish white stripe on the side;
• most models can be installed forwards and backwards, alternating between seasons and promoting even tread wear;
• complex pattern that ensures stability even on slushy snow.

Minuses:

• Suitable only for classic motorcycle models;
• the speed index P implies that you can drive them no higher than 150 km/h, otherwise you can further lose stability and controllability;
• there are few options for profile height - only 60 and 70 mm;
• Available for 13 and 14 inch wheels;
• To enter a turn you need to significantly reduce your speed.

What pressure should be in scooter tires?

The correct level of tire pressure is an important parameter; it must be checked before each new trip. You can check the tire pressure using a pressure gauge or visually by pressing your entire body weight on the seat surface to find out if the tire is flat. If there is a puncture, it must be repaired immediately. If the pressure in the scooter tires is low, then fuel consumption can greatly increase, and the scooter will lose control, which will lead to an emergency on the road. In addition, the service life of motor tires and its tread is greatly reduced.

If a tire is overinflated, it has a significantly smaller contact patch with the road surface, which has a bad effect on its directional stability. If the motorcycle tire is underinflated, then its grip on the road will also be insufficient, and tire wear will occur on the side parts of the tire tread. The tire pressure on your scooter must be maintained at the recommended level. If a motorcycle tire fits tightly to the disc and has no punctures, then it does not deflate. The following figures are accepted for the general standard of pressure in scooter tires: front wheel - up to 1.8 atm, rear wheel - up to 2 atm. In winter, it is permissible to reduce the pressure of scooter tires by 0.1-0.2 atm.

Attention! Some measure pressure in cubic meters, for example, you can hear about the pressure in scooter tires being 50 cubic meters. For conversion, you can use the value 1 atmosphere = 10.33227 meters cubed.

Step-by-step instruction

First you need to prepare the necessary tools:

• socket wrench
• clean cloth
• wooden plank or block.

How to remove the rear wheel on a scooter:

Location of the main components on the scooter

• Choose a level place where all the work will be carried out. Due to the unstable surface, there is a risk of the moped falling to one side. Place the scooter on the center stand. If a similar procedure was last carried out a long time ago, the threaded areas of the parts should be lubricated with VD-40 aerosol product. It will help facilitate manipulation of oxidized rusty parts. Otherwise, difficulties may arise when trying to unscrew the nuts.
• Before unscrewing the nuts, remove the muffler along with the exhaust pipe. To do this, remove the seat and lower plastic frame. Then the bolts connecting the frame to the muffler are not completely unscrewed. The number of fasteners depends on the model - 2 or 3 pieces. Using a socket wrench, remove the fastenings to the cylinder. At this point you can remove the bolts. In this case, you should check for the presence of rubber gaskets that may fall out when moving the muffler. If there is black soot in the device, it is worth cleaning it with a heated blowtorch and a wire brush.
• To prevent the wheel from spinning, secure the brake levers with a belt, thereby pressing the pads. You can also block it using a wooden plank, inserting it into the disk. Now you can proceed directly to the planned repairs. After completing the procedure, the parts are assembled in reverse order.

Important!
If major defects in parts are found during dismantling, it is better to contact a workshop.

To remove the rear wheel you will need a socket wrench

The best motocross tires

Enduro tires have an aggressive tread pattern that allows them to pass sand, dirt, and gravel on country roads. The reinforced compound allows you not to be afraid of mechanical contacts with stones, tree branches, and other debris located on the road.

Metzeler MC360 MID SOFT

Cross-country tires are used for driving on sand, dense soil, and mud. The tire compound, made using new technology, has a high resistance to mechanical deformation.

Pros of Metzeler MC360 MID SOFT

1. The three-layer frame consists of impact-resistant polyethylene material that can absorb road irregularities.
2. The ability to turn the tire over when installing to change the rotation allows you to increase its service life.
3. Wide contact patches of the tread improve traction and enhance braking.
4. Maintaining stable working qualities throughout the entire period of work.

Cons of Metzeler MC360 MID SOFT

1. Excessive noise.
2. Increased weight.
3. They slide on the grass.

Pirelli Scorpion MX Extra J

Such rubber with the J index is used to train children to ride motorbikes with small engines. It can also be used by amateurs to participate in cross-country racing. The tires are NHS class, meaning they are not intended for public roads.

Pros of Pirelli Scorpion MX Extra J

1. Excellent traction on various roads.
2. The composition of the compound ensures good dynamics over time.
3. Good grip in any weather.
4. Increased resistance to deformation.
5. The multi-layer frame prevents punctures.
6. Convex zones soften impacts when jumping.

Cons of Pirelli Scorpion MX Extra J

1. Not detected.

Michelin Tracker

Universal tires from the French company for driving on loose, rocky soil, grass and gravel on cross bikes.

Pros of Michelin Tracker

1. The original tread pattern allows you to drive on any road surface.
2. This model of cross-country motorcycle tires is allowed to be used on regular asphalt roads.
3. With such tires you can accelerate, make jumps, and drift around corners.
4. Convex tread blocks are placed on a solid base, which prevents rupture between them.
5. Excellent motorcycle handling.

Cons of Michelin Tracker

1. Overcharge.

Dunlop Geomax MX12

These tires from UK manufacturers can be used when driving on asphalt, sand or dirt.

Pros of Dunlop Geomax MX12

1. The presence of jumpers between the central tread blocks ensures smooth and smooth movement.
2. New tire manufacturing technology makes them cost-effective compared to similar products.
3. Increased wear resistance.
4. The special pattern of the side zone checkers allows you to maintain stability on sharp turns.

Cons of Dunlop Geomax MX12

1. Cross-country fans note its excessive softness.

Winter wheels for scooters 10 and 12 inches

Just like on a car, the tires on a scooter change in winter. Winter tires for scooters have additional sipes with different depths, widths and shapes, which increase grip on the road surface, remove water and snow from the tread and prevent hydroplaning. To produce winter tires for scooters, a special composition is used that contains silicic acid and other substances that provide optimal grip on wet roads. In addition, winter tires are often equipped with special studs, which significantly improve the quality of vehicle control on ice.

Which size fits best and why?

The choice of size in this case is completely individual and depends on the preferences of the driver and the roads on which the scooter will be driven. Many experienced scooter owners advise purchasing a 12-inch size for riding on rough roads with potholes, since larger wheel sizes go through holes and potholes on the roads much better. For city roads, you can leave 10-inch tires on your scooter.

Reasons for withdrawal

There are usually several reasons why an owner has to remove a wheel:

• after a long ride, balancing is required;
• the disc is cracked or bent;
• drum brakes have stopped working properly (worn out pads, problems with the brake system, etc.);
• complete replacement of spare parts;
• restoring a tire after a puncture or replacing it completely;
• scheduled maintenance;
• failure of internal bearings;
• removing the gearbox;
• The bushing axle is cracked.

Rear wheel arrangement with brake pads.

The best motocross tires

Off-road motorcycles belong to the Enduro class. They produce cross-country motorcycle tires with high tread, which facilitates confident passage through sand, soil and gravel.

High shock-absorbing properties allow you not only to ride cross-country, but also to jump on light motorcycles.

IRC Tires BR-99 - with the most aggressive look

The full name of the Battle Rally line conveys the essence of the characteristics inherent in the product - they are created for competition on short cross-country races. The manufacturer produces tires with a width of 90 mm for the front wheels and one standard size of 21 inches.

For the rear wheel there are two options for 120 and 140 mm in width with size R18. These are the best motorcycle tires for confident driving on wet ground thanks to the very high cross-row tread.

Pros:

• far-reaching lugs help maintain traction when the motorcycle is leaning hard or going off a rut;
• the staggered arrangement of squares on the tire ensures the passage of dirt and self-cleaning during rotation;
• high cushioning of rubber allows you to make jumps;
• the product is ISDE and FIM certified;
• excellent performance characteristics;
• attractive price from 2200 rubles.

Minuses:

• It is not easy to get this particular model of motorcycle tires everywhere;
• few options for wheel sizes and profile heights;
• On asphalt, the tread wears out quickly and becomes less effective on the ground.

Michelin AC10 - for compacted soil

This is a more expensive product in the rating from a French manufacturer that has developed a tire with optimal characteristics for dirt road racing.

Such motorcycle tires are best for those who have to travel 5-10 km to the training site, driving along highways and city roads. The rubber is approved for use in such conditions and lasts a long time.

Pros:

• excellent grip on different surfaces;
• suitable for public roads;
• the ability to choose a tire size for the rear wheel R18 or R19 and a width from 100 to 120 mm;
• models with a high profile of 90-100 mm provide excellent maneuverability in soft soil and sand;
• checkerboard arrangement of squares on tires;
• additional notches on each lamella;
• There is an increased distance between the relief protrusions, which is less clogged with dirt and is cleared faster when driving on a dry road.

Minuses:

• cost from 3600 rubles;
• For the front wheel, only one option is available in the line, 80 mm wide.

Characteristics of tires for scooter 120 70 12

This tire size for two-wheeled scooters is common and quite often used. A striking example is the L-373 model from. This model of tubeless motorcycle tire is used on both asphalt and dirt country roads. This tire has good cross-country ability and is quite safe in wet road conditions. Tire width 120 mm, profile height - 70, diameter - 12 inches.

Thanks to the right choice, you won’t have to worry about buying new tires for two-wheeled vehicles for a long time. Before choosing and purchasing, you should definitely take into account all the nuances and purchase high-quality motor tires.