Mountain Biking - Unable to get tire on wheel? WTF!?!

So, I feel somewhat stupid even asking this, but at the same time am curious as to why I am having this problem. I have a 2009 Specialized Rockhopper Comp Disc, still has the stock wheels.

I want to put on a set of Forte Metro-K tires from PBK, they are 26 x 1.25. For some reason, I am completely unable to get the tire onto the wheel. I have changed plenty of tires in the past, but am stuck with this one. I get it all the way on one side, then get about 75% of the tire on the other side, and that is it. The tire is so tight, that no amount of forcing, leverage, etc works. I gave up for fear of damaging my rims.

I have had these tires on my wifes Specialized Mkya, also a 2009 with the stock wheels. While it was tough putting them on, I could get them on. The only difference is I have disc brakes, and she does not.

So, what gives?

Thanks.

Unfortunately certain tires are rims coexist differently then other tires and rims. In the past I've found continental road tires to be a very tight fit on mavic rims, just depends. Generally you should install tires with your hands not levers as the lever can puncture the tube but in your case it may be necessary to use a lever, just be careful. Also try throwing the tube in a plastic bag with a little talcum powder and shake it up to get the powder all over the tube. May sound odd but it helps the bead seat and the tube move out of the way. Good luck.

I've also read where someone puts the tire in the dryer, i.e. get it warm, a little softer and hopefully a millimeter bigger.

Thanks for the replies, I think in this case tire and rim are never going to work. I had at least 8-10" of tire still to get on the rim, and had even attempted using levers. That was about when I gave up, for fear of either damaging my rim or the tire/tube.

What is annoying is that I had already removed my regular tire, thankfully that only took a matter of a couple of minutes to put back on the wheel, realize I had it on backwards, remove it, and put it on again.

Oh well, at least I know I am not stupid. Since it is simply to use on a trainer over the winter I might just try to find a cheap old wheel and use instead.

Had same issue with some Panaracers. I had to manhandle them on. I think some just need stretching!

Unfortunately certain tires are rims coexist differently then other tires and rims. In the past I've found continental road tires to be a very tight fit on mavic rims, just depends. Generally you should install tires with your hands not levers as the lever can puncture the tube but in your case it may be necessary to use a lever, just be careful. Also try throwing the tube in a plastic bag with a little talcum powder and shake it up to get the powder all over the tube. May sound odd but it helps the bead seat and the tube move out of the way. Good luck.

Try getting continental road tires on velocity rims, they make the mavic combo look easy.

I used a 6 pack of Torpedo Ale and the Master of Puppets CD cranked to 11 to get my last set of tires mounted. Seriously, use your thumbs and don't take no for an answer.

Or use a little soapy water to help get the tire on.