Continental Gators

flyer

I fitted some of these recently but got a puncture and had a major problem getting the tyre back on the rim, in fact I didn't manage it and had to get my wife to pick me up!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Are these tyres more difficult to fit than others?

I have had Specialized and fitted them easy, I just cant seem to prize the Contientals back on!

As usual took it to LBS and he made it look easy

Any tips appreciated

Thanks

Flyer

aripallaris

gators are definately harder to get on. which is a good thing as you'll be garantueed a snug fit! I've installed the folding type and have to say that I definately needed to use tyre levers. it's also important that you work your way around opposite the valve. when you get to the point that your hands can no longer hock in, get ur lever slide under the tyre and over the rim. make sure u don't snag the inner tube. make sure u haven't inflated the tube too much at this point.

okay so ur lever is now hocked under the tyre and over the rim. lift your lever upwards. this forces the tyre to lift up and over. again work both sides till u reach the valve. good luck matey!

centimani

aripallaris wrote:

gators are definitely harder to get on. which is a good thing as you'll be garantueed a snug fit! I've installed the folding type and have to say that I definitely needed to use tyre levers. it's also important that you work your way around opposite the valve. when you get to the point that your hands can no longer hock in, get ur lever slide under the tyre and over the rim. make sure u don't snag the inner tube. make sure u haven't inflated the tube too much at this point.

okay so ur lever is now hocked under the tyre and over the rim. lift your lever upwards. this forces the tyre to lift up and over. again work both sides till u reach the valve. good luck matey!

Thats the key, use the lever to slide the bead over the rim, not 'lever' it over the rim.
Gators are swines, but it does get easier.
Also, make sure the bead already on the wheel is pushed down towards the rim tape , that makes it easier too.
Fulcrums/gators, i had to walk away and calm down after 45 minutes trying.
On the road, if you've nothing to lube the rim with, you could even rub a little oil off the chain onto your finger and then onto the rim. Otherwise if you're doing it at home, talc or a fine smear of oil helps.
Despite the impossible looking combo at first, next time i punctured, the bead went over the rim without even using any levers (it was still tight, but much easier)

mattward1979

Yup I struggled to get mine on the first time, and also getting them on to my friends bike.

The good thing is that 2-3 times later, they flop on like any other tyre. Just takes a bit more easing of the bead!

When you are bored, and possibly psychotic, sit in one night and practice. Put the tyre next to the radiator if need be and cram it on to the rim a few times.

Next time you are out, it will be easier... either through your practice or because of your new manly thumbs!

gaddster

You need to work the tyre into the well of your rim (ooer)..It really does work, little bit at a time and it will pop on easily with no need for levers. See this vid..



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-XUFVrl0UT4&feature=mh_lolz&list=FL3lik4NkdU6o