I used the beads in my 07 Streetglide with new Metzelers. Rode to Florida twice, never noticed or felt any type of imbalance, wobble, etc at any speed. Since I couldn't tell they were there, I assume they were doing their job!

 

This link is a good tutorial on tire changing, including photos.

 

Several years ago I partnered with three friends and bought the HF Tire changer, a balancer from Marc Parnes (a forum member), and a number of sundries required to do the job (RuGlide lubricant, rim protectors, etc.).

We also bought the Harbor Freight motorcycle attachment, Mojo lever, etc. but haven't been using these last two items lately since doing so requires removal of either the pulley or rotor from the wheel. Instead, we've been using tire spoons and doing it the old-fashioned way, and with two people working it isn't that difficult.

Once you tool-up and do a few DIY tire changes you'll be glad you have that flexibility. Then you're out only the cost of tires, which on-line is much cheaper than the dealer will charge you.

 

So I take it you just use the HF changer to hold the tire while you spoon it?

 

How well do you like the balancer .. I'm still undecided weather to use Dyna beads or get a balancer .. Dyna beads were my 1st thought but still undecided

 

The charge from my iny is actually $25. per wheel but if you take the old tire with you it's $15... i keep them and take them to the dump once a year....I can't see paying more than that unless it's a emergency. Even $40 is not bad compared to the HD dealer... Hey i buy stuff from my dealer but i am not throwing my money away if i don't have to.

 

This Xmas I treated myself to the Nomar tire changer. It is expensive, but, I only wanted to buy it once... I went with the Classic Ultimate Package. I had them swap out a clamp for thier "yellow thang" holder. I added the Rim Clamp Set and the adapter to balance open wheels (rear on a BMW). This setup will set you back close to a grand but I have everything I need to all motorcycle wheels. I go throught about 4 sets of tires a year on the Beemer and 1-2 on the Custom Bagger. My local indy was charging me $36.00 per wheel when I brought the wheel in. But I figured it was much more than that when you add the time to go the shop, wait around, etc.... I'm selling shares to club members at $50 a pop for first use. Of course I'm putting their bike on my lift and removing the wheels. After the first visit, a 12 pack MGD is required.

 

If I could get it done for $15 per wheel, I wouldn't contemplate anything else.