Originally Posted by
BFisher
I have a pair of Ambrosio 19 Extra Elite Durex rims that are wire bead only, and even then they are a bear to mount tires onto. Tried some kevlar bead tires once and it was much too difficult - no way I was dealing with that miles from home. Those wheels serve as extras now.
I've had the same experience with the Ambrosio rims.
I've got some Torelli Master rims that are about the same... lovely to look at, but will make life difficult when it comes time to mount a folding tire.
The Koolstop tire jack is a great way to mount the tire at home, but it's a bit bulky for to stick in a little bag under the saddle.
For on the road use, I've got a little tire jack that I bought from Rose Bikes. It's compact, strong, and it works. A bit more clumsy to use than the Koolstop tire jack, but that's the price of being so compact.
Not sure if Rose Bikes still has it, but they used to sell it under a cryptic name...
the instructions are helpful....
The kevlar beads tend to stretch with age, but I've had to use this little tire jack at least a few times.
Steve in Peoria