Hey thanks for checking the video out! If you're interested in any of the tools or parts you saw, or are in need of ANYTHING else. By clicking any of the following affiliate links, a portion of the sale will go towards helping me to continue making content like this! Thank you!!! 1100lbs Bike Lift (Add thread locker to all fasteners!): amzn.to/4aSm07h Tusk Bike Lift (!!!WARNING!!! - THIS LIFT IS ONLY RATED FOR 300LBS): www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-scissor-lift-stand-p?c=0?ref=1042& Tire Stand: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-adjustable-height-motorcycle-tire-changing-stand-p?ref=1042& Balancing Stand: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-motorcycle-wheel-balancing-and-truing-stand-p?ref=1042& Waypoint Tires: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/tires-and-wheels/tusk-waypoint-adventure-tire-p?ref=1042& D-Sport Tires: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/tires-and-wheels/tusk-dsport%C2%AE-adventure-tire-p?ref=1042& 2mm Tusk Inner Tubes: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/tires-and-wheels/tusk-heavy-duty-2mm-motorcycle-tube-p?ref=1042& 3mm Tusk Inner Tubes: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/tires-and-wheels/tusk-severe-duty-3mm-motorcycle-tube-p?ref=1042& 4mm Tusk Inner Tubes: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/tires-and-wheels/tusk-ultra-heavy-duty-4mm-motorcycle-tube-p?ref=1042& Tusk Spoons: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-sure-grip-tire-iron-p?ref=1042& Bead Breaker Trail Spoons: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/motion-pro-beadpro%E2%84%A2-aluminum-tire-bead-breaker-and-lever-tool-set-p?ref=1042& Bead Breaker Long Spoons: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/motion-pro-beadpro%E2%84%A2-steel-tire-bead-breaker-and-lever-tool-set-p?ref=1042& Curved Spoon: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/motion-pro-extra-long-steel-tire-iron-p?ref=1042& Stick on weights: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/tires-and-wheels/k-%26-l-steel-wheel-weights-p?ref=1042& Clip on weights: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/tires-and-wheels/k-%26-l-universal-angled-spoke-wheel-weight-p?ref=1042& Rim Protectors: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/motion-pro-rimshield-ii-p?ref=1042& Bead Buddy: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/motion-pro-bead-buddy-ii-motorcycle-tire-tool-p?ref=1042& Valve Remover: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/motion-pro-valve-core-remover-p?ref=1042&
A couple years ago running 70mph on a pa highway my front tube blew out on my Klr! How, I don't know but i never laid it down! I learned a lesson. I always replace the tube with a new heavy duty tube everytime i replace a tire. I came close to crashing when it first happened then came really close to laying it down when i got to the side of the road almost to a stop. It took along time to ride again without being scared! I always check air pressures and oil before i ride so low pressure wasn't the issue, hot summer day might have been but an old tube I think was the reason. Never cheap out on tubes. Stay safe out there boys n girls. Ps, the tube was split down the seam. 4mil for the win!!!
One tip I got from Adam Rieman, a Aussie Motorcycle journalist RUclipsr and from Motology films and famed Iron Horse series. A proven super successful tip was to slather the tube in Silicon spray, makes the tuber super slippery for instal and helps keep the tube lubricated and make slipping the tire back onto the rim with less risk of pinch flats. If possible make sure the tire is warm as the rubber softens - leave in the sun or warm it up in front of a heater or use a hot air gun if changing tires in a cold garage. Equally using the dry style tire lube during assy as use by Tanner in his vids from Adventure Daily uses Murphy's tire lube and swears by it. Make sure the tire bead from the opposite side is sitting in the middle of the rim as this is the least diameter when trying to fit the last section of bead. silicon spray also helps protect the rubber from fatigue and heat if running at high speeds and low pressures for better tire floatation and traction in sandy or verry muddy conditions. Talc works but mixes with dust from the external environs and then becomes abrasive. HD tubes have been my go to for 30 years Barrum Tubes used to be the go to here in Aus for many years
Currently using Michelin 4mm tubes. Aside from brand names- my thought is a thicker tube is less likely for me to pinch with spoons. Also less likely for me to damage on the trail.
Years ago, I installed are rear tire with a 6mm tube in a customers KLR. Could not get the tire to balance. Reinstalled a 4mm tube and the tire needed just one 5 gram weight to balance. That was my first tusk tire tube experience.
Interesting! I didn't realize you could get them that thick!!! Makes sense that with all that extra material there'd be the possibility for more variation I suppose, but boy I'd bet it could take some gnarly trails!
I went the tubless conversion with my KLR and was very frustrated while trying to mount the much stiffer tubeless tires. I got them both mounted but the bead never seated in the frontt so I ended up paying the shop to remount the front. what a PIA! I'll probably swith back to tubes when these tires are over.
The whole video seems over inflated to me...unless you get a hole in the tube, it becomes under inflated.....but that discussion seems flat to me....😂😂...sorry on a roll. I personally run 3 mil tubes as I do both types of riding.....4 mil can heat up on the road for long runs. Honestly, great video as always...now get back to the DR as I have to finish mine...especially a slight carb mod. Waiting to see if you do anything to yours. Garth
I'm sure I have normal tubes in my OEM Conti TKC70s on my KTM 390 Adventure. And though I won't try real rocky trails, I like the idea of installing heavier tubes at routine tire changes. I carry regular ones in case I have to change one on the road, since they take less room. Thick ones take a lot more space. Thanks, SC!
Thanks, Ben! I would have re-used my old tubes had you not mentioned this. I will definitely add new tubes. I mentioned a few months ago that I would appreciate your tool recommendations. I needed a specific box wrench for the top nut on the DR650 forks, and I bought THE crappiest wrench set in the world. Just awful wrenches. I need a set of T-handle wrenches, JIT screwdrivers, a decent socket set, and maybe those ratcheting wrenches (not sure what they are called) I have been using the tools left over from when my folks owned a Suzuki shop (45 years ago), but I haven't bought new tools in years.
Well good, I'm glad I finally got around to making this! I've had pretty good luck with all my tools so far. Definitely happy with the Tusk T handles and actually purchased some Amazon basics ratcheting wrenches years ago and they still work great, but are no longer available.
Pretty useful stuff. I changed my own tires once and probably just bought the cheapest tubes, not really knowing or noticing that there was a difference. Happy to say I should have my new XR next week. Ordered it back in late August and it seems to have arrived just in time for the nuclear winter we’re experiencing in New England. I plan on keeping it mostly stock to begin with but will probably make a couple changes before riding season. Is there anything you would definitely recommend? Nothing radical, just more along the lines of the front sprocket upgrade, or other sooner than later mods. Also, do I have to find one of your links for each product I get from Rocky Mountain, or follow one link and everything purchased gets credited? Not sure exactly how that works.
Thanks! Yeah, they certainly don't seem like a performance product, but when you're riding off road, EVERY detail matters! Nice! That's awesome! I'd say a wider front sprocket is the only MUST do mod and my preference is the 14 tooth for sure. Otherwise everything else is going to be personal preference. The important part with the affiliate links is just to click one (anyone) before you check out. Then a percentage of everything in your cart will help support my content! Thank you!!!!
@ I just got back back from signing the papers, and I got to sit on it for a minute. Feels pretty awesome. At 6’1” I could just flat foot it, but I’m thinking that lowering link you have looks pretty good. It’s supposed to reach the 30’s this week so I might actually get to ride it before spring. Good to know about the affiliate links. Thanks.
I have always left mine loose enough to show any deflection. Though lately I have been using an O ring under the nut to keep crap out. Now I think about it, I should put the O ring on the tube before installing, air pressure will be enough for a passable seal. Cheers
I have tried the 4mm and I think they are too thick. I like the Tusk 3mm tubes. I like heavier tires more than heavier tubes for pinch flat protection. I am loving my Dunlop Trailmax Missions on my DR650.
I kind of wondered that! The 3mm seem fine, but any thicker would be like sticking a tire within a tire 🤣. Yeah? Nice! I'll need something new on mine soon I think!
I have always used the threes also. On a long trip I also Patch the tube and keep it as a spare until I can replace it. I have never had to use a patched tube, but nice to know you have it in the dessert.
The inner tube will deteriorate in time, especially in the summer heat, so a thicker tube will delay that … I personally never use a tube thinner than 3mm … but I outexed my rear wheel so I only have the front to contend with …
Hey thanks for checking the video out! If you're interested in any of the tools or parts you saw, or are in need of ANYTHING else. By clicking any of the following affiliate links, a portion of the sale will go towards helping me to continue making content like this! Thank you!!!
1100lbs Bike Lift (Add thread locker to all fasteners!): amzn.to/4aSm07h
Tusk Bike Lift (!!!WARNING!!! - THIS LIFT IS ONLY RATED FOR 300LBS): www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-scissor-lift-stand-p?c=0?ref=1042&
Tire Stand: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-adjustable-height-motorcycle-tire-changing-stand-p?ref=1042&
Balancing Stand: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-motorcycle-wheel-balancing-and-truing-stand-p?ref=1042&
Waypoint Tires: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/tires-and-wheels/tusk-waypoint-adventure-tire-p?ref=1042&
D-Sport Tires: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/tires-and-wheels/tusk-dsport%C2%AE-adventure-tire-p?ref=1042&
2mm Tusk Inner Tubes: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/tires-and-wheels/tusk-heavy-duty-2mm-motorcycle-tube-p?ref=1042&
3mm Tusk Inner Tubes: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/tires-and-wheels/tusk-severe-duty-3mm-motorcycle-tube-p?ref=1042&
4mm Tusk Inner Tubes: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/tires-and-wheels/tusk-ultra-heavy-duty-4mm-motorcycle-tube-p?ref=1042&
Tusk Spoons: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-sure-grip-tire-iron-p?ref=1042&
Bead Breaker Trail Spoons: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/motion-pro-beadpro%E2%84%A2-aluminum-tire-bead-breaker-and-lever-tool-set-p?ref=1042&
Bead Breaker Long Spoons: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/motion-pro-beadpro%E2%84%A2-steel-tire-bead-breaker-and-lever-tool-set-p?ref=1042&
Curved Spoon: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/motion-pro-extra-long-steel-tire-iron-p?ref=1042&
Stick on weights: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/tires-and-wheels/k-%26-l-steel-wheel-weights-p?ref=1042&
Clip on weights: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/tires-and-wheels/k-%26-l-universal-angled-spoke-wheel-weight-p?ref=1042&
Rim Protectors: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/motion-pro-rimshield-ii-p?ref=1042&
Bead Buddy: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/motion-pro-bead-buddy-ii-motorcycle-tire-tool-p?ref=1042&
Valve Remover:
www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/motion-pro-valve-core-remover-p?ref=1042&
I've used,1,2,3 and 4mm tubes. 3mm is definitely the sweet spot with the right balance of durability, weight, and ease of installation.
A couple years ago running 70mph on a pa highway my front tube blew out on my Klr! How, I don't know but i never laid it down! I learned a lesson. I always replace the tube with a new heavy duty tube everytime i replace a tire. I came close to crashing when it first happened then came really close to laying it down when i got to the side of the road almost to a stop. It took along time to ride again without being scared! I always check air pressures and oil before i ride so low pressure wasn't the issue, hot summer day might have been but an old tube I think was the reason. Never cheap out on tubes. Stay safe out there boys n girls. Ps, the tube was split down the seam. 4mil for the win!!!
YIKES!!! That would be awful! Well done keeping it together and upright though! Yeah, new thick tubes can be a life saver!!!
@SwankyCatProductions 👊
One tip I got from Adam Rieman, a Aussie Motorcycle journalist RUclipsr and from Motology films and famed Iron Horse series.
A proven super successful tip was to slather the tube in Silicon spray, makes the tuber super slippery for instal and helps keep the tube lubricated and make slipping the tire back onto the rim with less risk of pinch flats.
If possible make sure the tire is warm as the rubber softens - leave in the sun or warm it up in front of a heater or use a hot air gun if changing tires in a cold garage.
Equally using the dry style tire lube during assy as use by Tanner in his vids from Adventure Daily uses Murphy's tire lube and swears by it.
Make sure the tire bead from the opposite side is sitting in the middle of the rim as this is the least diameter when trying to fit the last section of bead.
silicon spray also helps protect the rubber from fatigue and heat if running at high speeds and low pressures for better tire floatation and traction in sandy or verry muddy conditions. Talc works but mixes with dust from the external environs and then becomes abrasive.
HD tubes have been my go to for 30 years Barrum Tubes used to be the go to here in Aus for many years
Currently using Michelin 4mm tubes. Aside from brand names- my thought is a thicker tube is less likely for me to pinch with spoons. Also less likely for me to damage on the trail.
Definitely!!!
Years ago, I installed are rear tire with a 6mm tube in a customers KLR. Could not get the tire to balance. Reinstalled a 4mm tube and the tire needed just one 5 gram weight to balance. That was my first tusk tire tube experience.
Interesting! I didn't realize you could get them that thick!!! Makes sense that with all that extra material there'd be the possibility for more variation I suppose, but boy I'd bet it could take some gnarly trails!
Ben, another great video. You always do an excellent job, very good content.
I went the tubless conversion with my KLR and was very frustrated while trying to mount the much stiffer tubeless tires. I got them both mounted but the bead never seated in the frontt so I ended up paying the shop to remount the front. what a PIA! I'll probably swith back to tubes when these tires are over.
I’m calling it. A klr returns this year
Haha I'm hoping so!
The whole video seems over inflated to me...unless you get a hole in the tube, it becomes under inflated.....but that discussion seems flat to me....😂😂...sorry on a roll. I personally run 3 mil tubes as I do both types of riding.....4 mil can heat up on the road for long runs. Honestly, great video as always...now get back to the DR as I have to finish mine...especially a slight carb mod. Waiting to see if you do anything to yours. Garth
I have thin tubes and I’ve been smashing the wheels, no puncture yet.. I did buy thick tubes maybe I should put em in..
I'm sure I have normal tubes in my OEM Conti TKC70s on my KTM 390 Adventure. And though I won't try real rocky trails, I like the idea of installing heavier tubes at routine tire changes. I carry regular ones in case I have to change one on the road, since they take less room. Thick ones take a lot more space. Thanks, SC!
Thanks, Ben! I would have re-used my old tubes had you not mentioned this. I will definitely add new tubes.
I mentioned a few months ago that I would appreciate your tool recommendations. I needed a specific box wrench for the top nut on the DR650 forks, and I bought THE crappiest wrench set in the world. Just awful wrenches. I need a set of T-handle wrenches, JIT screwdrivers, a decent socket set, and maybe those ratcheting wrenches (not sure what they are called) I have been using the tools left over from when my folks owned a Suzuki shop (45 years ago), but I haven't bought new tools in years.
Well good, I'm glad I finally got around to making this! I've had pretty good luck with all my tools so far. Definitely happy with the Tusk T handles and actually purchased some Amazon basics ratcheting wrenches years ago and they still work great, but are no longer available.
Pretty useful stuff. I changed my own tires once and probably just bought the cheapest tubes, not really knowing or noticing that there was a difference.
Happy to say I should have my new XR next week. Ordered it back in late August and it seems to have arrived just in time for the nuclear winter we’re experiencing in New England. I plan on keeping it mostly stock to begin with but will probably make a couple changes before riding season. Is there anything you would definitely recommend? Nothing radical, just more along the lines of the front sprocket upgrade, or other sooner than later mods. Also, do I have to find one of your links for each product I get from Rocky Mountain, or follow one link and everything purchased gets credited? Not sure exactly how that works.
Thanks! Yeah, they certainly don't seem like a performance product, but when you're riding off road, EVERY detail matters!
Nice! That's awesome! I'd say a wider front sprocket is the only MUST do mod and my preference is the 14 tooth for sure. Otherwise everything else is going to be personal preference. The important part with the affiliate links is just to click one (anyone) before you check out. Then a percentage of everything in your cart will help support my content! Thank you!!!!
@ I just got back back from signing the papers, and I got to sit on it for a minute. Feels pretty awesome. At 6’1” I could just flat foot it, but I’m thinking that lowering link you have looks pretty good. It’s supposed to reach the 30’s this week so I might actually get to ride it before spring.
Good to know about the affiliate links. Thanks.
You aren’t supposed to tighten the nut onto the rim on an off road tire - even though most dealers set bikes up that way.
I have always left mine loose enough to show any deflection. Though lately I have been using an O ring under the nut to keep crap out. Now I think about it, I should put the O ring on the tube before installing, air pressure will be enough for a passable seal. Cheers
I haven't run a tube in about 20 years. Tublis is the answer.
I have tried the 4mm and I think they are too thick. I like the Tusk 3mm tubes. I like heavier tires more than heavier tubes for pinch flat protection. I am loving my Dunlop Trailmax Missions on my DR650.
I kind of wondered that! The 3mm seem fine, but any thicker would be like sticking a tire within a tire 🤣. Yeah? Nice! I'll need something new on mine soon I think!
I have always used the threes also. On a long trip I also Patch the tube and keep it as a spare until I can replace it. I have never had to use a patched tube, but nice to know you have it in the dessert.
The inner tube will deteriorate in time, especially in the summer heat, so a thicker tube will delay that … I personally never use a tube thinner than 3mm … but I outexed my rear wheel so I only have the front to contend with …
Sure, that makes sense! It would be nice to only have one to look after!