Originally Posted by
SwampDude
I have repaired and replaced a fair number of tubes over the years for myself and others, but I've never pulled the tire completely off of the wheel to remove or insert the tube. Is there a reason for doing so that I'm not aware of? Is it to enable complete inspection of the tire before putting a tube back in?
There's more than one way to do this job, and whatever works well for you is the right way.
I generally pull the tire, because over the years I find it's faster to stuff the tube first, then mount the tire. It also has the small advantage of not having to work the valve past the tire, but that's not a big deal either way.
I also remove the tire because I like to inspect the tire thoroughly and again, it's easier off the wheel.
But, I also do the complete opposite sometimes if pressed for time (trying to catch a train), and the cause is obvious (piece of glass plainly visible). Then, I'll remove only a foot or so or tire from the rim, pull down and patch the tube (glueless is good for this, but have used bandaids, and once a piece of gum), put it together, pump and run.
BTW- in mass production, bicycle companies have tires shipped with the tube already stuffed in, and mount the way I do.