Bro, you are a pro rider that’s super kind and super patient! For the other 99% of us riders out there, cushcore really needs to make install easier. Everyone knows this, including CC. Maybe it’s about time they do something about it…
Hey Everyone! Hope this video is helpful for those who are interested in trying a cushcore or are struggling with the install process of one they already bought. We had a little bit of a short week this week which is why I (Kyle) just filmed a solo video but we have been working on a new series which will launch in two weeks in which April will learn all of the skills to build up a bike! Thanks so much for all of your support, we really appreciate you all. For those curious our first Podcast will go live on this coming Tuesday on our second channel! ru-vid.com/show-UCQjClS6XBlA6RzspLqT6SfQ . Hope you all have a great weekend!! Also here is a link to the cushcore xc i use on all my bikes front and rear and in all of Aprils bikes rear only. It says it goes up to a 2.4 but I have used it in many bikes with 2.6 tires with good success. jenson.sjv.io/15AKb9
I've been mountain biking in Boise since 1985 with a Fisher hard tail...... I graduated to a stump jumper And then to a full suspension super light. I haven't been mountain biking since I got in a car accident a few years back but I'm watching your channel to support you.
Great video. Maybe this is a stupid question but at like the 10:30 mark in the video once you have one bead in and the second side still open, couldn't you just put the cushcore in the rim then so you're not fighting it? Seems like it would be fairly easy to pop in with the second side still open. Clearly I have not installed one yet but logistically I don't see why it wouldn't be able to seat in the rim at that point.
Replying to my own reply: I just installed some this morning and I would definitely recommend doing it my way. Skipped a bunch of steps. If you already have tubeless ready rims just open up one side only, leave the other side bead still seated. Pull the tube out. Swap the valve. Put the cushcore in. Then close up that side using the technique in this video with trying to shove the bead you are working on underneath the cushcore (that's definitely the hardest part of the whole thing). Saved a bunch of time and headache by leaving the opposite bead still seated in the rim throughout the entire process.
Kyle thank you!! Just did my first ever cushcore pro install with maxxis dhr DD and followed your guide to a T and it worked perfectly, did it all under one hour. My local shop here basically said they won't install cushcore for me because "it's too hard" and "takes too much time" so I said F them I'll learn myself. No problem at all but couldn't do it without your guidance!! Thanks a million!!!!
Kyle and April I am SO HAPPY to see you back making informative and easy to follow videos. I especially liked the cut away shots that showed how the tire moves within the rim during installation. Furthermore, as someone who struggles with installing tubeless tires, demonstrating the benefit of the Bead Bro's was a real revelation, that will save me SO MUCH aggravation! Keep up the good work! Malcolm.The.Aussie
Wow, great tutorial! I didn’t even know what a Cush core was before this and still watched all the way thru. Great pacing, beautiful shots. Im excited for the future of this channel. A comparison where April tries to guess if the cushcore is installed or not would be a fun video. Then you can do a trail test to see how much a difference having it on vs off makes!
Thanks for the video, will re-watch the next time I fight with my Cushcores. Even removing them is a royal pain. About the zip-ties being wasteful, you can actually get reusable zip ties that have a little mechanism that lets you open them.
Ha! I just installed a pair, with 27.5 plus coming next week. 1st: put it in the dryer for a 30 seconds, on medium heat. Especially if it's cloudy outside. 🤗
I've never used the XC version of CushCore but it looks easier than regular Cushcore. It's all about taking your time and really working on getting that bead down and under that Cushcore. Great tutorial!
Thank you so much!!! I been doing this for about 4 hours then I watched your video it took me less than 5 mins to install one side and complete the installation in 30 Mins first time installing cush core pro.
I don't use Cushcore, but even when mounting the tire - very helpful was the part where the cut tire/rim showed up and you only pressed the one bead into the rim that was actually trying to pop onto the rim . I always tried to keep both beads on the middle of the rim when installing tire, but with the Schwalbe it was always an extra struggle. Today I tried not to worry about the first bead already on the rim and press in "valley" of the rim that only second bead on what I was "working on" - I got a little extra slack, it was much easier - only one lever needed and no sweat :) Thank you.
Bro you can hook the schwal-buh levers over your rim On the other side of the spoon is the clip part it you push it in and it hooks into the rim It works freakishly good and i tested it on some really freaking tight japanese tires
Thats a great point! I totally forgot to show that haha! I seriously think those are my favorite levers ever, i have used park tool, pedros, feedback, cuschore, maxxis and these little tiny schwalbe ones i got 5 years ago are my favorite haha
Nice. This was probably the only video of somebody doing it in the workshop/office and not worrying about getting things messy. Just shows how much you've nailed down the method. Thanks so much for the video!
Tire first seat the beads then open one side up and then shove her in wayyy easier. I have some other tricks too but…. Some of us are built different. Same technique you use for motos running a bib moose. Other than that solid advice Kyle. Love ya buddy!
Yeah I actually started doing that after some more suggestions! I asked the Cushcore guys and they said they always do it one side at a time but that they might try doing some the other way. I need to make and updated video on the easier way!
Lining up the logos is good for diagnosis too! Like you sprung a leak and took the tire off to check it. Now is the leak from a dent in a rim or is there a tear in the tire you can't see right away? If the logos are matched, you can re-produce your setup and figure out what exactly happened.
Nice video, you have way more patience with that install than I do...lol. After hearing all the trouble folks have had with install and especially removing the Cushcore, I went with VITTORIA AIR-LINER. Very easy to install and remove tire (provided you get the correct size insert) and they have worked perfect. In fact, I was able to ride off the trail with a "flat" tire and only the insert inside.
Great video. Everyone has an approach that works for them. Me personally, I use a couple tricks. Rim tape, smooth and bead to bead. I use 35mm tape on a 32mm ID rim. Next I mount the tire and set both sides and inflate. Remove one side of the tire. Stretch the Cushcore out using my knees and feet and hands. A warm CushCore is better. Put the cushcore on the rim, inside the tire. Use a small amount of soapy water if the tire is new and just install the second bead by pushing the bead deep into the spoke well. I can usually do these without levers, depending on the rim and tire. By installing the tire and seating a bead first it makes the install WAY easier. JMO. Thanks for the vid!
if u don't have a bead buddy, a 3/16 thick rope can be pushed between the tire and rim to let it fall into the rim valley. i used this method installing Vittoria inserts and it was a life saver.
I find it much easier to do one side of the tire first, then insert, then the other side of the tire. That way you never push out the insert which can be a pain. I find it easy to get the insert seat if I push my knees on the rim on the bottom part and use both hands to get the insert all the way up and end at the top. I hope it makes sense. Did a set of super gravity today and man these are pretty rigid. I wish I had seen your tip about the sun, that would have helped me a bit I think. Also, this made me consider getting some of those bead bros...
Thanks for the tips and suggestions! It worked perfectly. Funny enough my front tire took the longest because I couldn’t line the stem and logo up perfectly. But once that finally lined up, everything popped into place. The bead buddy is definitely a MIST have. It’s such a simple yet helpful tool.
Excellent tips for those that struggle or haven't done it. I just did a couple the other day and don't have any trouble once you understand a few basic things. My number one emphasis is getting that bead tucked under and deep in the rim. I liked those green holders. I can also recommend the cush core tire Irons, work well also. I like adding the sealant just prior to popping on that last bead but agree with your point on can be messy if you errored. Great job.
Thanks Jeff! Yeah the cushcore levers are also really nice, I just had one install where i poked a hole in my rim tape using them and since then I switched back to the smaller schwalbe tire levers. The cushcore ones are great for pushing the bead in though!
Awesome Kyle. Great to see this first video of you working in the workshop. Love your down to earth genuineness!! Workshop looks great. Content is great. Delivery is great. Good job all around! Well done 💪👌👍
Thanks so much Christiaan! We can't wait to start the maintenance series with April soon too! It should be a blast! We are really hoping to put out a good library of helpful videos to help everyone save money on service!
I've used Cushcore for a few years now and love it. Haven't used the BeadBro's, but have used their phat tire lever which really helps. I do find that spraying some soapy water around the edge of the cushcore and bead really helps to slide the tire down into the center channel.
If you get the chance, try the install of a plus tire. The 3" x 27.5" install had me getting the inside wall against the rim tape to be able to air up. Thanks for the video!
I had to remove mine because it was so difficult to install, this vid changed my mind! this is like one of those pro guide series! 😉 I reckon cush core should give you a big fat thank you for this 🤣
This video is probably the best one I’ve seen for installing Kush by the fact that cush does not include the necessary tools to make a smooth process makes me very jaded and I’m gonna pull them out of my tires
Great video tutorial on this. After countless struggles decided to try Panzer inserts. Waaay easier and so far I really like how they perform. Just letting folks know about a lesser known option🙂
Nice video. I liked those cross sections. I've ran Cushcore for 2 years and was happy with it. I am not using it anymore, though. With my RA, it is next to impossible to install them myself. I cannot get them off either. Just hurts my hands too much. It is a good product and wish I could keep using it. I sent a message to the company about my condition and how Cushcore helps me ride. The developer of Cushcore got a hold of me and gave me a very nice message about how he was happy his product was helping me. He sent me some swag, which he didn't have to do.
Check out Rockstop rim protectors. It's made from much higher quality mould injected elastomer that lasts much longer and doesn't absorb sealant. Also doesn't require special valves because of the open design and allows sealant to flow freely within the tire. Also doesn't give tires that "dead" or damped feeling.
best piece of advice was to push the bead to the "middle channel" to get more space. Installed my first cushcore insert in less than 10min over the weekend using this approach
That was a really great video. I’ve tried to install these before and it’s always been a total pain in the ass. After using your method I was able to take the tire off and put it back on with relative ease. Thank you so much
I use Tannus and the process is very similar. Getting that bead to the center is incredibly important. I don't have a bead bro, but what I do is tuck the tire under the insert then use clamps to pinch it in place. Works just like an extra pair of hands. Installing inserts has been a learning experience but the ride quality is top notch. Would recommend using inserts for sure. Got them in both my hardtail and full sus.
I learned some tire installation tips I've never heard before I watched this video, and I've put on quite a bit of 'em. Very nice video. One thing that helps me know if I've installed the tire in the correct rotational direction, is studying the knobs. Some tires have knobs that point in the direction of forward rotation, and so if you have the tire installed correctly, the knobs should be pointing forward. If they're pointing towards the back of the bike, you need to take the tire off and flip it around lol. When the bike is upside down, the direction is actually the opposite, which can be tricky (and why I prefer changing a tire either in a bike stand or the bike rightside up).
I have installed CushCore Pro easily with just my hands and smal tire levers, it is easy when you understand how give more room/slack for your tire. Bind of your tire have to be closer to center of the rim it is easiest position
At least you haven't got to worry about pinching the inner tube (being tubeless). As a kid, apart from straining ridiculously with the tyre leavers, finding the thing was then flat again due to my ineptitude was a frequent downer. The reviews on these things are good. Again, thanks for the tips (those bead clamps look good).
1st Time I did cushcore I Just did it the Cave man way sweating Buckets and Bloody fingers lol now I use Tire levers now.. good Video man I will Have to Get me some Bead Bros and also try 3 Tire Levers you did that Nice and Easy.. Oh and Remember every One zip ties Can be Reusable if you Get a Razor blade use the sharp corner to Lift the Plastic Tab with Blade Between tab and Notches slid it Back open. just don't cut your self. also the plastic tab may Weaken over time if reused to many times..
Cushcore is a pain in the rear!!! Since I starting using the Vittoria Airliner life is easier and it is actually a better product, with the Vittoria you can even pedal the bike back to the car, pretty much all the guys I ride with went the Vittoria way. Thanks for the tutorial!!
i recently bought my first sealant injector and went with one that was $10 including a valve core remover. i don't run anything inside my tires so got one that can actually insert all the way through the valve stem rather than screwing on and pushing sealant through the stem. seems cleaner to me especially with the twist valve on the syringe to help keep sealant from leaking when i go from the bottle to the bike.
I didn’t know that the helper clamps even existed I have Cush but the fact that I just found out that they could’ve made it easier for me to install I’m gonna remove them cut them up and throw them in the trash
I got cushcore installs down to a science now. Took me about 3 practice tries, 0 tools. You have to man handle and tuck them and the sidewalls. Then again, I have a pretty strong grip, hands and fingers due to my line of work. Pinch, tuck and counter on the other side and the cushcore/tires never come off. The last portion, I hold on to bead that is on and stretch, pull and roll the bead that needs to be sat, all while I keep the sat on bead in center of wheel(the channel) with my palms and thumbs. I do this on DD and DH casings on maxxis tires. Good luck.
I've gotten very proficient changing tires with chshcore, I have to suggest getting the cushcore bead dropper tire lever. It has a huge handle on it and makes it easy to push the bead into the channel. Also, the plastic trash can is a must have.
Thank you! We have another fun Cushcore video we will post in the next few weeks on this channel or the @ridemtbexpress channel as Kyle has gotten better at installing them.
Nice video. I have been tempted to run CC. But sadly my time is limited and I would rather spend the time riding. But looks pretty easy, maybe I’ll give it a go.
Needed that tutorial!!! I don't have cush core, but since I'm starting to ride trails with more rocks and roots, I've ordered some. I hope it's easy as your install.
Excellent video! I've used this technique on other inserts as well with a variation: Using those exact tire levers instead of the Bead Bro tools. The clip side does the same thing, albeit not quite as well. If I use 3-4 of those levers to push/hold the tire in the center rim channel, I've found it gives me the slack I need.
no. those clips don't push the bead far enough into the rim, which makes a HUGE difference. anyway, could you also make a video on how to UNinstall a cush core? that's where I struggle much more.
Nice job! I just put a Cush core pro on with some downhill casing continentals yesterday and my hands are beat up!! Putting a XC on the front with when the new front wheel arrives on Tuesday!
Great tutorial. Some good hacks too! I guess you can't get one bead into the rim first like a tube? I'm surprised that you didn't remove your cassette. Mine would have fallen out
I met a guy on the trail using this and he got a pinch flat while I tried to keep up with him. Yeah, it would have ended his ride but I had a spare tube so we yanked it out (very difficult when you are on the trail), and installed the tube. IMO: you are better off running higher PSI or a more a DD tire. He had to carry the ring over his shoulder/neck all the way back.
When I used to bmx as a kid and popped tires almost daily until I had a luck chance of talking to someone higher up told me to always ensure tires were at max pressure and since haven't popped a tire. The main reason as seen in slowed down videos on line I'm sure you can find one but the sheer force landing or clipping a curb compressed the tire to a point of being pinched between the rim and ground. Max air pressure in the tire will greatly reduce this possibility
OK, so ... the Cushcore lever/push tool helps a lot. Lubing the tire up with a window cleaner liquid (Windex/Mr Muscle) helps a lot Also, putting on 50-60%, then putting the other side on 50-60% helps with the tire not popping off. On some rims/tires, it is possible to put on half the tire, put the cushcore in, and put the other half on. I prefer to do that if possible. One such example is Halo Vortex 32mm with 2.4 Trail King tires.
Fact: It’s actually way easier to install 1 side of the tire first without the cushcore then insert the cushcore from the other side. Then follow kyle on doing the other side. Very good instructions though.
@@tomgdownhill i’ve only installed cushcore pros to michelin wilds, maxxis exo casing, dd casing and dh casing. The thicker the casing, the harder install imho.
Awesome, professional video. Loved the cutaway shots to the cross sections of the tyre and rim so that one can see what actually happens when the tyre is being inserted. Keep up the amazing work. Glad to see you are back and fully recovered.
You guys have made me such a better rider with your tutorials, and now a better mechanic! I have to ask, do you personally use cushcore? I have never heard of them until now! Thanks, and I'm happy you guys have your dream setup! Totally takes your channel to another level -hope it pays off ^^
When soap-water "evaporates", ONLY the water evaporates. The soap portion will never evaporate. The dried soap residue will just be rehydrated by the water in the Stans sealant; and will still contaminate and possibly deactivate sealant's ability. Instead, why not use alcohol to lubricate? Alcohol is an excellent lubricant. Better yet, alcohol is completely volatile! When you initially inflate tire to set the bead (without stem core in yet), just inflate-deflate the tire several times & the volatile alcohol will be gone. Soap-water is the better lube for tubed tires because it gives more working time and, in that case, the permanent soap residue is no problem. Fortunately, I just learned the invaluable "rim channel" trick a few years ago. What a sanity saver!! However, if I hadn't, I would never have understood what you were talking about, even with the on-screen arrow; or how that affords more slack on opposite side of tire. The overall production of this video is incredible! I love your unique combination of champion (badass) racer / kind / calm / humble. The cross section / cut away is "next level" helpful! You have EXCELLENT teaching illustrations in this video. If you could have added a visual effect like a line superimposed over the actual cross section arc of the rim channel that would be more helpful to folks that aren't already hip to the rim channel trick.
Great to see the new workshop and appreciate the tip on ending at the valve, that was previously where I started. Bead Bros on the shopping list. We also run Super G Schwalbe tires. Am still not looking forward to this job on my sons DH bike, but I now have all the knowledge. Thanks Kyle
