Installing / Uninstalling Wheels - order?

Hi everybody!

Here's a strange question that I"m too embarrassed to ask my DBF... :o

I recently traded in my station wagon on a sedan. The only way to fit my bike into the car is to remove both wheels and put it in the trunk; the wheels go into the back seat. Hence, every time I go ride, I have to mount both of the wheels, instead of just the front one as before. I'm still getting the hang of the rear one, but it's getting better.

The question is this: what's the best way to mount the wheels so I'm not dragging the chainring etc on the ground? I've been mounting the rear one first, but I have a feeling that is really not good. My normal starting point for rides is a gravelly shoulder, so I shudder to think what it's doing to my drivetrain. So - is it better to mount the front one first (though it will make the bike tippy) or to put the bike upside down? Any other thoughts to make this process more efficient?

(Please don't suggest a bike rack. That's a whole nother story.)

Thanks so much for your help!

Amy

I would turn the bike upside down- no juggling required. I'd probably put the rear one on first, but that's more habit than anything else.

BTW, if you shift down to the smallest cog before removing the back wheel, the wheel removal and replacement is much easier.

I also store my bike in the trunk of my car w/ both wheels removed. Here's how I reinstall the wheels w/o putting the drive chain into the dirt:
-take both wheels out of the car and lean them against the bumper so that I can reach them (i usually put the wheels on top of the frame in the trunk-- cover the frame with a blanket so no scratching during transit)
-remove bike frame and hold it above the ground (don't put the drive train/derailleurs on the ground). I hold the bike with my left hand and sort of brace it under my arm. The rear of the bike is in front of me and the fork is behind me (drive train to the outside, not pressing against my leg) It's OK to put the front fork on the ground and I do this sometimes to help balance it
-grab rear wheel and pop it onto the bike. This is much easier if you have the chain in the smallest cog before you remove the wheel, and if you routinely do this, you know where to thread the chain when you put the wheel back. also, make sure your brakes are released before removing/installing the wheels
-install front wheel.

It also works to put the frame upside down, though I personally have a much easier time getting the rear wheel on when the bike is upright and I am holding it.

^^^ That's what I do too. Sometimes, I'll put the front wheel on before the bike leaves the car, and then I don't have to hold as much of it up to put on the rear, but it depends on how it's packed.

I appreciate your help! I'll give these techniques a try this weekend and LYK how it goes. I"m sure it will be much, much better.

Thanks again - you're the best!

Amy