Tire Service Advice
Protecting Against Flat Tires:
I’ve taken advice from motocross riders on ways to improve your chances of avoiding flat tires.
- Avoid using slime sealant, as it is water-based and can cause your rim to rust over time.
- Avoid using tire liners, as they can shift and disrupt the weight balance of the tire.
- Use a thicker 2mm or 3mm tire tube for better flat tire protection.
- Using a higher quality tires made by Michelin or Shinko to helps prevent flat tires.
Have a Spare Tube Ready:
- Before attempting to patch or replace the tube, it’s a good idea to have a spare tire tube on hand.
Rim Protection Advice:
- I recommend using tire removal rim protectors. When done correctly, you won’t scratch the rim. However, I’ve linked rim paint below in case things get messy.
Steps for Tire Removal:
- Follow the motions shown in the video linked below. I personally use four tire iron spoons and rim protectors to ensure the quickest, cleanest removal that minimizes damage to the rim paint.
Rear Tire Servicing Instructions
Follow these steps to properly service the rear tire of your ONYX RCR:
Preparation:
- Review the tool list below to confirm you have everything needed to properly service the rear tire.
- Ensure the bike is powered off and the battery is removed for safety.
- Place the bike against a wall on a stable surface or use a bike stand to lift the rear wheel off the ground.
Removing the Rear Wheel:
- Loosen the axle nuts using a 24mm wrench or 24mm deep socket.
- Slide the rear wheel out of the frame, ensuring the brake rotor is not damaged during removal.
Tire Maintenance:
- Inspect the tire for wear, cracks, or embedded debris.
- If replacing the tire, deflate it completely, then use tire levers to remove it from the rim.
- Check the inner tube for punctures or damage, and replace if necessary.
Installing the Tire:
- Mount the new or repaired tire onto the rim, ensuring the inner tube is properly seated without pinches.
- Inflate the tire to 32 PSI.
Reattaching the Wheel:
- Align the axle with the dropouts and slide the wheel back into place.
- Clean the rear axle and nuts with brake parts cleaner.
- Apply one drop of Thread Locker to the rear axle and nuts.
- Tighten the axle nuts firmly to 80nm.
- Tighten the axle locking nuts firmly to 30nm.
Final Checks:
- Spin the rear wheel to ensure it rotates freely and aligns properly with the brake caliper.
- Test the brakes and motor function before riding.
By following these steps, you’ll ensure your rear tire is serviced safely and correctly.
Rear Tire Parts and Torque
- Rear Axle Nut: 24mm / M16 Hex Nut / Torque 80nm
- Rear Axle Locking Nut: 24mm / M16 Hex Lock Nut / Torque 30nm
- Rear Axle Stay Screw: M6-1 x 16mm + M6 Hex Nut / 10mm + 5mm Hex / Torque 12nm
- Rear Brake Caliper Screws: M6 / 5mm Hex / Torque 12nm