Zip-tie tire change method?

[remn]

I'll be changing the rear tire on my '08 GS soon, and I'm wondering if anyone has tried the zip-tie method to get the tire over the rims without using tire irons? I used irons last time, and though I eventually got it off it took forever and even with rim protectors I left a couple scratches on the rims. So I'm wondering how the zip-tie method works on these rims.

Here's a thread from another forum on the method, using lashing straps instead of zip ties:

http://www.advrider.com/forums/showthread.php?t=299597

I'm also considering the hacksaw method for getting the old tire off:

http://www.advrider.com/forums/showthread.php?t=299856

Anyone had any luck with these methods on the GS?

[Paulcet]

Looks like it is worth a try! Let us know how it goes.  I haven't heard good results with the hack-saw method.

[racinmason85]

I mounted tires on my gs and gsxr.  The method that has worked best for me has been cutting the old tires off with a portable ban saw and mounting the new tires with pry bars and a lot of windex.  Although i will probably invest in some tire irons next time. I would recommend a friend help you and have a bottle of windex near by.  Definitely makes things 10x easier. I tried the zip tie method,  it seemed more bother then it was worth.  Hope this helps ya out.

[mimikeni]

My old rear tire had to be helped off.  I used a utility knife to cut the sidewall, then pried off the bead.  I mounted the tires using big traditional tire irons and a spray.  Next time, I plan to invest in some rim savers.  It would have been an easier job for two people than for one.

[cheeterpasteen]

I remember getting new tires for my bike and trying my damndest to put them on myself. I used tire irons and rim savers, but the shinko's i was using had a bead that was just too tight. I ended up marring the bead and having to take it into the shop anyways. The guy ended up running a tube in my tubeless tire. haha
Now, I do all of my work myself, but i think the little bit of time to take off the rims and head over to the shop is much easier than to DIY. And if you have the rims already off the bike, the tire change is much cheaper.

[steezin_and_wheezin]

Not sure how well it will work on bigger tires, but i used the Trash Bag method to install the tires on my shredpeds. They went on like butter except i put the rear on wrong.. twice!

[craigs449]

I do all my tires myself (GS, Supermoto, Mini's, Etc).  I use spoons and watered down dishsoap......the ziptie method is more of a pain in the ass than it helps!  Best advice I can give is to use a lot of lube (LOL!!) and set the new tire out to bake in the sun or in front of the fireplace for a while to soften it up prior to install.