How hard is it to change the tires yourself? I dont have a press to break the bead but I saw there is a relatively cheap tool for it. Anyone do this themselves?Ihave irons and Iknow it's not that complicated but what do you do about balancing?

 

I have ridden on hand changed tires for over 15 years. I bought a Harbor Freight tire changer for under 50 bucks just to use the breaker. Then, I change the tire with a couple of spoons on the floor with the wheel resting on a piece of carpet. I do not balance. I just mount the tire with the sidewall dot at the valve stem. Sure, some naysayers will advise you against this. However, I have ridden over 100k miles with tires mounted in this fashion. My tires last as long as the next guy's and my bikes always ride smooth.

 

Wow, I am impressed xxxflhrci!!!Seriously!

 

I too have always changed my own tires and never have had them balanced and never have had any issues. If I ever did notice some vibration or wobble, I would bring the wheels in for balancing, but it's never been an issue. Buy the bead breaking tool (got mine from J&P) and have at it. You might consider some plastic rim protectors too so you don't nick or scratch the rims.