Are you an avid cyclist who enjoys exploring the great outdoors? Imagine embarking on an exciting adventure with your trusty electric bike, only to encounter an unexpected obstacle – a flat rear tire. Don’t let a minor setback ruin your journey! In this article, we will guide you through a comprehensive step-by-step process on how to change the rear tube on your electric bike swiftly and efficiently, empowering you to get back on the road in no time.
Before we dive into the hands-on instructions, let’s gather the essential tools and materials you’ll need for this task. Make sure you have a spare inner tube that is compatible with the dimensions of your rear tire, as well as tire levers to assist in removing the old tube and installing the new one. Additionally, a floor pump or portable hand pump will be necessary for inflating the new tube. If you encounter any difficulties along the way, don’t hesitate to consult the user manual for your specific electric bike model for further guidance.
Now, let’s begin the process of changing the rear tube. Firstly, locate the rear wheel and identify the valve stem. Depress the valve core using a small tool or your fingernail to release any remaining air pressure in the tire. Next, use the tire levers to carefully pry the tire bead away from the rim, working your way around the entire circumference. Be cautious not to damage the tire or rim during this step. Once the bead is loose, completely remove the tire from the wheel. Locate and carefully disconnect the electrical cable that powers the rear hub motor. Then, use the tire levers to detach the old inner tube from the tire and discard it responsibly. Now, it’s time to install the new inner tube.
Tools and Materials Required
To change the rear tube on a Lelectric Expedition, you will need the following tools and materials:
Critical Tools
**1. Tire levers**: Tire levers are thin, flat tools that are used to pry the tire bead off the rim. It is important to have a pair of tire levers that are the correct size for your tires. If the tire levers are too small, they will not be able to pry the tire bead off the rim. If the tire levers are too large, they could damage the tire or the rim.
**2. Patch kit**: A patch kit is used to repair a flat tire. The patch kit should include a variety of patches in different sizes, as well as a tube of rubber cement.
**3. New tube**: A new tube is needed to replace the flat tube.
**4. Wheel truing stand**: A wheel truing stand is used to hold the wheel while you are truing it. Truing the wheel ensures that the wheel is running smoothly and that the tire is properly seated on the rim.
**5. Chain whip**: A chain whip is used to remove the cassette from the rear wheel.
**6. Allen wrench**: An Allen wrench is used to remove the bolts that hold the brake caliper to the frame.
**7. 15mm open-end wrench**: A 15mm open-end wrench is used to remove the axle nuts.
**8. 17mm cone wrench**: A 17mm cone wrench is used to adjust the hub bearings.
**9. Spoke wrench**: A spoke wrench is used to adjust the spoke tension.
Optional Tools
**1. Torx wrench**: A Torx wrench is used to remove the bolts that hold the motor to the frame.
**2. Pedal wrench**: A pedal wrench is used to remove the pedals.
**3. Headset wrench**: A headset wrench is used to remove the headset bearings.
**4. Bottom bracket wrench**: A bottom bracket wrench is used to remove the bottom bracket.
**5. Derailleur hanger alignment tool**: A derailleur hanger alignment tool is used to align the derailleur hanger.
Safety Precautions
To ensure a safe and successful rear tube replacement on your Lelectric Expedition e-bike, observe the following precautions:
- Park your e-bike on a stable and level surface.
- Before touching any electrical components, disconnect the battery by turning the bike off and removing the battery key.
- Wear appropriate safety gear, such as gloves and safety glasses, to protect yourself from sharp objects and possible debris.
- Thoroughly clean the area where you’ll be working to remove any dirt or debris that could interfere with the repair process.
- Ensure you have the necessary tools and spare parts, including a tube, tire levers, a patch kit, and a floor pump.
Disconnecting the Battery
To safely disconnect the battery, follow these steps:
- Locate the battery key on the bottom of the bike frame.
- Turn the key to the “off” position.
- Lift the battery handle and slide the battery out of the frame.
Note: Do not attempt to work on the rear tube while the battery is connected, as this presents a significant electrical hazard.
Step 1: Removing the Rear Wheel
Start by placing the bike upside down on a flat surface. Locate the quick-release lever on the side of the rear wheel, usually near the axle. Open the lever by pushing it down and pulling it back toward the wheel. This will loosen the tension on the chain.
Next, grab the rear wheel with both hands and pull it straight out of the frame. Be careful not to damage the chain or the derailleur when doing this. Once the wheel is out, you can place it on the ground or a workstand.
Now, you will need to remove the tire from the rim. To do this, use a tire lever to pry the tire bead away from the rim. Start at one point on the tire and work your way around the entire circumference. Once the tire bead is free from the rim, you can pull the tire off of the wheel. Be careful not to damage the tube when doing this.
With the tire removed, you can now access the tube. Inspect the tube for any holes or tears. If you find a hole, you can either patch it or replace the tube. To patch a hole, use a patch kit and follow the instructions provided. If you are replacing the tube, simply pull the old tube out of the tire and insert the new tube into the tire.
Once the new tube is in place, you can start putting the tire back on the rim. Start by lining up the tire bead with the rim. Then, use your tire levers to pry the tire bead back onto the rim. Work your way around the entire circumference of the tire until the bead is fully seated on the rim.
Now, you can inflate the tire to the recommended pressure. Once the tire is inflated, you can reinstall the wheel into the frame. Simply align the wheel with the frame and push it into place. Close the quick-release lever to secure the wheel.
Step 2: Removing the Cassette
Once the wheel is removed, you can proceed to remove the cassette. Follow these steps:
1. Clean the cassette
Use a chain cleaner and a brush to remove any dirt or grime from the cassette. This will make it easier to remove the lockring.
2. Identify the lockring
The lockring is a large ring that holds the cassette in place. It is usually made of aluminum or steel and has notches around the circumference.
3. Install the cassette tool
Insert the cassette tool into the notches on the lockring. The tool should fit snugly and should not move around.
4. Remove the lockring
Turn the cassette tool counterclockwise to loosen the lockring. The lockring may be tight, so you may need to use a lot of force. Be careful not to strip the notches on the lockring.
| Tool | Description |
|---|---|
| Chain cleaner | Removes dirt and grime from the chain |
| Brush | Helps remove dirt and grime from the cassette |
| Cassette tool | Inserts into the notches on the lockring to remove it |
Step 3: Deflating and Removing the Old Tube
5. Deflating the Inner Tube
To deflate the inner tube, locate the valve stem and press down on the valve core with your thumb or a tire lever to release the air. Continue pressing until the tube is completely deflated. Avoid using sharp objects, as these could puncture the tube.
If the valve stem is stuck or difficult to press, you can use a pair of pliers or a special valve core tool to loosen it. Gently rotate the valve core counterclockwise until it loosens. Do not overtighten the valve core once you have finished deflating the tube.
To ensure complete deflation, turn the wheel several times to distribute the air evenly throughout the tube. It is important to fully deflate the tube before removing it, as any remaining air can prevent you from properly removing the tire from the rim.
Once the tube is completely deflated, it should collapse and become limp. This will make it easier to handle and remove from the tire.
Step 4: Preparing the New Tube
Now that you’ve removed the old tube, it’s time to prepare the new one. This involves ensuring that the tube is inflated properly and has the right amount of sealant.
Inflating the New Tube
To inflate the new tube, you can use a floor pump, hand pump, or CO2 inflator. If you’re using a floor pump, attach the hose to the valve on the tube and start pumping. For hand pumps and CO2 inflators, follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer.
Checking the Pressure
Once the tube is inflated, use a pressure gauge to check the pressure. The recommended pressure range for Lelectric Expedition e-bikes is 45-50 PSI (3.1-3.4 bar). If the pressure is too low, add more air until it reaches the desired range. If the pressure is too high, release some air until it’s within the specified range.
Adding Sealant
Sealant helps prevent punctures by filling small holes in the tube. To add sealant to the new tube, remove the valve core and inject the sealant into the tube using a syringe. The recommended amount of sealant is 1-2 ounces (30-60 ml).
| Product | Recommended Quantity |
|---|---|
| Stan’s NoTubes Tire Sealant | 1 ounce (30 ml) |
| Slime Tube Sealant | 2 ounces (60 ml) |
Once the sealant has been added, reattach the valve core and shake the tube vigorously to distribute the sealant evenly.
Step 5: Installing the New Tube
With the rim strip in place and the old tube removed, it’s time to install the new tube. Carefully unroll the new tube and inspect it for any punctures or damage. If you find any, replace the tube with a new one.
Once you have a new, undamaged tube, follow the steps below:
7. Insert the New Tube into the Rim
Insert one end of the new tube into the rim at the valve hole. Use your thumbs to gently push the tube into the rim until it is completely seated. Be careful not to pinch the tube as you are pushing it in.
|
• Use baby powder to lubricate the rim and tube. |
• This will make it easier to insert the tube and help prevent punctures. |
|
• Start inserting the tube at the valve hole. |
• This will help ensure that the tube is properly aligned. |
|
• Use your thumbs to gently push the tube into the rim. |
• Be careful not to pinch the tube. |
Once the tube is fully seated in the rim, inflate it to a low pressure (about 20 psi) and check for any leaks. If you find any leaks, use soapy water to locate the puncture and patch it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Step 6: Inflating the Tube
Now that the tube is securely in place, it’s time to inflate it. This step is crucial to ensure the bike’s stability and performance.
Using a Floor Pump:
- Attach the floor pump to the presta valve on the tube.
- Begin pumping slowly and steadily.
- Monitor the pressure using the gauge on the pump.
- Inflate the tube to the recommended pressure indicated on the sidewall of the tire.
Using a CO2 Inflator:
- Attach the CO2 cartridge to the inflator.
- Connect the inflator to the presta valve.
- Open the valve on the inflator and allow the CO2 to fill the tube.
- Inflate the tube to the recommended pressure indicated on the sidewall of the tire.
Note:
- Overinflating the tube can cause it to burst or damage the rim.
- Underinflating the tube can compromise the bike’s handling and puncture resistance.
| Pressure Range (PSI) | Tire Width (mm) |
|---|---|
| 60-80 | 1.5-2.0 |
| 80-100 | 2.2-2.4 |
| 100-120 | 2.6-3.0 |
Step 7: Reinstalling the Cassette
With the new tube installed, you can now reinstall the cassette. Here’s a detailed guide for this step:
7.1: Cleaning the Cassette and Freehub Body
Before you reinstall the cassette, clean both the cassette and the freehub body using a brush and degreaser. This ensures that there’s no dirt or debris that could cause shifting problems.
7.2: Applying Grease
Apply a small amount of grease to the splines of the freehub body. This will help prevent the cassette from seizing.
7.3: Aligning the Cassette
Align the cassette with the splines on the freehub body. The largest cog on the cassette will align with a ring on the freehub body, which indicates the correct starting position.
7.4: Tightening the Lockring
Screw on the lockring by hand until it’s snug. Then, use a chain whip and a cassette lockring tool to tighten it further. Aim for a torque of around 40 Nm.
7.5: Repositioning the Chain
Reposition the chain on the smallest cog of the cassette and the middle chainring of the crankset.
7.6: Checking the Shifting
Test the shifting by cycling through all the gears. Ensure that the chain moves smoothly and without any issues.
7.7: Wheel Mounting
Remount the wheel onto the bike and tighten the axle bolts to the recommended torque.
7.8: Brake Pad Adjustment
Check and adjust the brake pads if necessary to ensure proper braking.
7.9: Final Inspection
Thoroughly inspect the bike, including the newly installed tube and cassette. Check for any loose bolts, frayed cables, or other potential issues.
Step 8: Reinstalling the Rear Wheel
Once the new tube and tire are in place, it’s time to reinstall the rear wheel. To do this, first lift the rear of the bike up by the seatpost. Then, align the wheel with the dropout slots on the frame and insert the axle. Secure the axle with the nuts, but don’t tighten them all the way yet.
10. Tightening the Axle Nuts
This is a critical step, so pay close attention. The axle nuts should be tightened evenly and to the correct torque. Overtightening can damage the threads or the axle, while undertightening can cause the wheel to come loose.
To tighten the axle nuts properly, follow these steps:
- Use a torque wrench to tighten the left axle nut to the specified torque, which is typically 15-20 Nm (11-15 ft-lbs).
- Tighten the right axle nut by hand until it is snug against the frame. Do not overtighten.
- Check the wheel for play by grabbing it at the top and bottom and trying to rock it back and forth. There should be no play.
Here’s a helpful table summarizing the steps for reinstalling the rear wheel:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Lift the rear of the bike up by the seatpost. |
| 2 | Align the wheel with the dropout slots on the frame and insert the axle. |
| 3 | Secure the axle with the nuts, but don’t tighten them all the way yet. |
| 4 | Tighten the left axle nut to the specified torque using a torque wrench. |
| 5 | Tighten the right axle nut by hand until it is snug against the frame. |
| 6 | Check the wheel for play by grabbing it at the top and bottom and trying to rock it back and forth. |
How to Change the Rear Tube on a Lelectric Expedition
Changing a rear tube on a Lelectric Expedition is a relatively simple process that can be completed in a few steps. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you change the rear tube on your Lelectric Expedition:
- Gather your tools. You will need a set of tire levers, a new inner tube, and a patch kit.
- Unfold the bike. Open the clasp and pull the handle to open the bike.
- Remove the rear wheel. Use a 15mm wrench to loosen the axle nuts on both sides of the rear wheel. Once the axle nuts are loose, you can pull the rear wheel straight back to remove it from the bike.
- Deflate the tire. Use a valve core tool to remove the valve core and allow the tire to deflate.
- Remove the tire from the rim. Use your tire levers to carefully pry the tire off the rim. Be careful not to pinch the tube.
- Replace the inner tube. Insert the new inner tube into the tire and inflate it slightly. This will help to keep the tube in place while you are putting the tire back on the rim.
- Reinstall the tire on the rim. Use your tire levers to carefully pry the tire back onto the rim. Make sure that the tire is seated properly on the rim.
- Inflate the tire. Use a pump to inflate the tire to the recommended pressure. This will vary depending on the size of the tire.
- Reinstall the rear wheel. Insert the rear wheel into the bike and tighten the axle nuts on both sides.
People Also Ask
How often should I change the rear tube on my Lelectric Expedition?
You should change the rear tube on your Lelectric Expedition whenever it gets a puncture. You can also change the tube if it is old and worn out.
What are the symptoms of a flat rear tube?
The symptoms of a flat rear tube include:
- The bike will feel sluggish when you are pedaling.
- The rear tire will be flat or low on air.
- You may hear a hissing noise coming from the rear tire.
Can I change the rear tube on my Lelectric Expedition myself?
Yes, you can change the rear tube on your Lelectric Expedition yourself. However, if you are not comfortable doing so, you can take your bike to a bike shop and have them change the tube for you.
