Gatorskins

[jackthelad]

Hi guys I tried gatorskins 23c tyres on different wheels - mavic open pro cd and mavic cxp22.On both set of wheels I had to let the air in the inner tube out to try and get the tyres on the rims.I dont usually do this on 28c or 25c tyres as it can nick the inner tubes,but there was no way these tyres where going on.I tried talcum powder on the rims,but still had the same delemma.I was just wondering if this is the procedure for fitting 23c gatorskins to rims,or does anyone have any advice for fitting these tyres,more looking at punctures on the road

any help appreciated

 

[Oldlegs]

Watch this:


View: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-XUFVrl0UT4


Gatorskins are a lot easier than Marathon Plus!

 

[jackthelad]

Oldlegs thanks for the reply,I have used this procedure with marathons and had no problems getting marathon tyres on,but with the gatorskins 23c after using tyre straps and talcum,I had no choice but to reduce the air in the inner tubes to get the last 6 inches of the tyres on.I prefer to keep air in the inner tubes to avoid nicks in the tubes,but found myself letting the air out to get the tyres on the last 6 inches .I was just wondering if anyone knew of an easier method or is it just a case of brute force and patience pressing the tyre down around the rim with your hands

 

[gbb]

Had the same with a Gator/Fulcrum, i found using a broad plastic tyre lever and a little washing up liquid on the bead was the answer.
Instead of inserting the lever at right angles to the rim, use the lever at an angle and 'slide' the tyre on by pushing it, not levering it.

 

[jackthelad]

Had the same with a Gator/Fulcrum, i found using a broad plastic tyre lever and a little washing up liquid on the bead was the answer.
Instead of inserting the lever at right angles to the rim, use the lever at an angle and 'slide' the tyre on by pushing it, not levering it.


[/quotGGB these are the wee tips I am looking for, thanks

 

[jackthelad]

Again how do you guys find the tyres out on the road if you get punctures,where you dont have the access to talcum or washing up liquid

 

[jay clock]

I have them and have no problems on Easton wheels. My approach is to put some air in the tube to get it seated, then fully deflate. Make sure you have the beading squidges as far as possible into the dip of the rim all round as that reduces the overall circumference of the tyre on the rim, making it easier

 

[gbb]

Again how do you guys find the tyres out on the road if you get punctures,where you dont have the access to talcum or washing up liquid

It worried me at first and although ive not yet had a visit since fitting his combo, the first time i fitted Gators, i nearly gave up, had to go away and think about it, came back with the washing liquid idea and it worked (still hard, but easier). Then of course you think what if this happens on the road. So i took the tyre off and refitted it just to see....it did seem easier the second time round, and perhaps it gets easier each time.
I was thinking of having a tiny wee bottle with some liquid in and put in my saddle bag...havnt got there yet tho.

 

[jackthelad]

I have them and have no problems on Easton wheels. My approach is to put some air in the tube to get it seated, then fully deflate. Make sure you have the beading squidges as far as possible into the dip of the rim all round as that reduces the overall circumference of the tyre on the rim, making it easier

This is what I do,I inflate the tube as normal and fit the tyre and tube as normal,until I reach the last 6 inches then deflate the tube to fit the last part of the tyre on the rim,I was a bit reluctant to do this but after posting and hearing other forum members replies,I guess this is the norm for 23c gatorskins