Help! I can't mount my #%$@^$& tire!!!

[Hartmame]

I was just having this problem with a Conti contact sport I finally used two quick sticks and was able to get it on but then I couldn't get it to seat properly. When I asked around I kept hearing ...use water or windex on the bead?

[azfiddle]

I had a problem with a new tire last fall. I spent 30 minutes being frustrated and took it to the shop. Took the mechanic about one minute. No charge, though I would have happily paid.

[tzvia]

Some tires are just that way and I find the folding bead ones to (generally) be easier to deal with. I've had to deal with that same tire in 700c and while it is a great tire for our less than perfect roads and can take a load of punishment, it's a &^%$# to put on.

A small bit of soapy water on the bead of the tires helps them slip on although some people have claimed (from mounting tubeless MTB tires using STANS) that the trapped moisture caused their rims to corrode. I've never seen this myself even though I've used a lot of soapy water to mount and seal my tubeless MTB tires. Start by making sure that the tire, as it is pushed on the rim, falls into the center of the rim where it is usually deeper, and as was mentioned, you can push the rim down on the ground to trap the tire there as you work your way around. Sometimes, if the tire just keeps slipping from the other end I use a Pedros tire lever on that side, holding it so that the tire can't back out, as I manipulate the other side. And I admit I've had to use a lever for the last bit, but you must be careful not to pinch and slice the tube if you do so.