Monthly Archives: September 2008
September 22, 2008
New rear tire
On my way back from Canada last year, the both tires got so cupped that I had to change them for new Michelin Pilot Road's at a shop in southern Washington. About 10,000 miles later, the rear was down to the metal, and needed to be changed. In the past I've used Pasadena Yamaha for tires and mounting, but their tire prices are not great, and their mounting prices are way high.
Earlier this year Toecutter from the Forum had put together a group buy for Pilot Road II's. I was too late for that, but the shop Toe used still had a great deal, so I had them ship me a front and a rear. Derby Cycles in Kentucky gave me a good price and quick shipping.
I haven't found a shop near me that will just mount and balance a tire, so I started asking around. My friend Rob at work gave me the name of a place in Rancho Cucamonga that he's used - ASAP Powersports. I arranged with Paul, the owner, to bring the wheel and tire out on Saturday.
First, I had to remove the rear wheel from the bike. Fortunately, H Marc Lewis' FJR site has a complete write-up on the process, including photos. On Friday afternoon, everthing went smoothly once I found something to use a a breaker-bar to loosen the main axle bolt.
I loaded everything up on Saturday morning and drove out to Rancho. Paul's got a busy shop, mostly targeting ATVs, dirt bikes and PWC's, but with all the machines needed for general motorcycle maintenance. I planned on dropping everything off and heading out for breakfast, but Paul's mechanic (and partner) started right in, and by the time I paid the bill he was done. Quick, professional mounting and balancing at a reasonable price - very nice.
I was still hungry, and found a Carrow's. It had to be the noisiest, darkest restaurant I've ever gone to for breakfast. Three little kids - all at different tables - screamed off and on the whole time. The food was good, service was not, and I was ready to leave once I finished my food but had to wait about 10 minutes to get my check.
On the way home I stopped at Bert's for some Plexus and some Honda Spray cleaner. Then I hit the Sears for a set of socket adapters. By early afternoon I had the wheel back on the bike. The next time I need to pull the rear wheel it should only take five minutes off and ten minutes on.
Mileage at the tire change was 41,055.
ASAP Powersports
8333 Rochester Ave. #102
Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730
909-944-8010
Derby Cycles
6323 Midland Industrial Drive
Shelbyville, KY 40065
1-502-633-7100