How to Change the Rims on a Bike

Riding a bike on damaged rims can be dangerous and they should probably be replaced immediately. It could be that you need to modify the rims for different cycling needs, such as mountain biking, jumping or even road racing. Either way, changing the rims on a bike is a relatively quick task, and a lot easier and cheaper than building a new wheel. All you will need is few tools and a little patience and you will be set to go.

Things You'll Need

  • Spoke wrench
  • New rims
  • Electrical tape
  • Rim tape
  • Scissors
  • Wrench set
  • Lubricant
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Instructions

    • 1

      Inspect the wheel. Check to see if any spokes are bent and replace them if necessary. Use a spoke wrench to loosen the spokes near the rim. Do not completely remove the spokes yet. Peel off the old rim tape from inside the rim.

    • 2

      Remove the nut securing the chain cog on the rear wheel and lift the chain free. Remove the tire and tube from the rim. If replacing both rims, remove the front tire and tube as well. Align the old rim with the new one, using the valve hole as a marker. Hold both rims firmly together and wrap a few pieces of electrical tape around to secure them. Make sure the spoke holes on both rims line up.

    • 3

      Remove the spokes with the spoke wrench. Lubricate the threads on the spokes. Thread the spokes into the new rim. Tighten with the spoke wrench.

    • 4

      Cut the electrical tape from the two rims and check to see if the spokes have any bends in them. If so, you might have to adjust the tension. Use the spoke wrench to adjust accordingly at the spoke nipple, near the rim. Apply new rim tape inside the new rims to cover the ends of the spokes. This protects the inner tube from the spokes.

    • 5

      Replace the tire on the rims and reconnect the chain to the rear wheel. Tighten the nut to secure the chain cog. Replace the axle nuts on both wheels and tighten. Inflate the tires.