Nobody asked that before lol Good question. I used to use flat screwdrivers to take off and put back on my tires, but it was long time ago. Back then tires were tough, hard and same with rims - all steel 100 lbs each one :roflmao2:

I use two plastic levers to get the tire off which are not very strong. I inspected the rim again looking for any blip in the warping but couldn't find any. Afterall the plastic levers bend pretty strongly under even a fairly light load.

Thanks for all the information. I will contact bikes direct again and pester. I believe they may be related to bikes direct as I have been forwarded to Them on several occasions while looking for replacement parts (such as these wheels) and besides these, have not had any problems. But like has been said, you get what you pay for. I'll have to see if I can find a box and a more accurate shipping quote.

[QUOTE=smoth;16588160]I use two plastic levers to get the tire off which are not very strong. I inspected the rim again looking for any blip in the warping but couldn't find any. Afterall the plastic levers bend pretty strongly under even a fairly light load.



If you've dealt with BD before you might have leverage if you work your way up to management. Otherwise simply serving them with a small claims complaint may get them to reconsider.