Question, when changing the rear tire. After the tire is replaced, do you have the tire balance while on the bike or is it just the tire that gets balance. I have a flat and I am unable to ride the bike to shop. So, I have to remove the tire, bring it to the shop and have it replace. Help!

 

They'll balance it at the shop. The rim, tire and rotor are generally the only parts that get balanced -- cush drive with sprocket is generally not needed.

Changing and balancing your own tires is not difficult. Startup is anywhere from $50 to $600 depending on how much stuff you need. I already had a compressor so I just bought the irons and tire changing station (Harbor freight -- around $100). Made my own static balancer. The places around here started charging $50 each tire off the bike -- I've personally saved over $600 so far plus I change some of my buddies tires.

 

That's sound great. That's a great idea, thanks. I might consider that option in the future.

 

Does the Harbor Freight system you bought scratch up the rims at all? I am looking into buying something myself because I can pay for it after just one set of tire changes. Also can you you explain your static wheel balancing system in regards to what you use as far weights, tools and anything else I might not know about..

 

I watch some back woods shops change tires with nothing more than two extended screw drivers and an air compressor. If you really want to get into the mechanics of your bike...i'd slowly purchase parts to do it myslef as well.