I am looking for tips on how to keep the rim tape centered when mounting. This is after a month of commute when it was time to put summer tires on. I had never replaced the original rim tape in the 3 years prior.
by pierre__poutine
I am looking for tips on how to keep the rim tape centered when mounting. This is after a month of commute when it was time to put summer tires on. I had never replaced the original rim tape in the 3 years prior.
by pierre__poutine
10 Comments
Replace it, get the right size.
First step, you’ll need the right size rim tape. This is too narrow, and that makes it a lot harder. Next step, go SLOW. If you rush it, it’s easier to get out of alignment. And when in doubt, ask your LBS for a hand. Cheers.
In addition to the other advice, if you don’t have a truing stand, just flip the bike upside down so you can rotate the wheels easily as you tape. It will help out. Good luck.
Don’t drink before applying it.
On a serious note see the inner width of the rim and get the correct tape for it.
Start a spoke before the valve hole and press firmly with your thumb while pulling on the tape while applying.
Get the correct size. Make sure it’s good quality. Stans tape works well. Any tensilized polypropylene strapping tape. Tapes that have no printing on them. Start 2 spokes behind the valve apply tension and go about 5cm at a time while maintaining tension on the tape.
Are you running tubeless or are you using inner tubes? Most of these comments are assuming tubeless
Black electrical tape is fine.
Your looking for a rim strip , it’s basically a big rubber band that prevents your inner tube being punctured by your spokes. Typically you should be able to pick one based On the diameter of your rim. If you swing it by your lbs they should be able to give you the correct size.
I jut had this issue yesterday, and had to think about it.
I installed the tape as usual, and then I pulled a part of the tape higher, put a pencil under it (between tape and rim)
The pencil goes sideways compared to rim.
Then I slide the pencil around the wheel and tilt left/right it to guide the tape to maintain center.
It falls back to the rim nicely centered and flat.
I also had problems on my wheels with such tape. Replaced it with tubeless tape and it works just perfect. Also it is a bit thinner so installing a tire a bit easier.