Michelin M62 Gazelle Tires

Recently I've finished installing tires on my moped, taking off the old ones were quite easy. When buying new tires there are a few things to consider and few things you'll learn while installing them. While I'm rockin a 2hp Puch engine that with my old tires could achieve 38mph after changing them I could only get going 35mph. Some might say the loss of speed isn't worth it, well as much as I'd like to agree you haven't played with these tires.

First off when I was looking for tires, I scoured MA Forums for tires and reviews. One set I came across was the Michelin M62 Gazelles, now even with the knock down in speed they do have some great features. Firstly they are within budget, any tire that fits in ones budget is worth every penny. Secondly they have excellent tread, they pick up tiny stones and can hear them hit the wheel fenders. Thirdly, they have probably the stiffest and thickest side wall, I weigh 150lbs and even with my full weight it was hard to press them down and make the sides bulge out. So with a 100lb bike and a 150lb me, I dare say that if I get a flat, it wouldn't be noticeable. Lastly, they work great! I put them on, rode around and they ride really strait!

The biggest con and I can't stress this enough, the biggest con is the installation. The thick side walls are a pain in the butt to get on. Now mind you I'm no expert, haven't done this on a moped before, I probably replaced mountain bike tires once and thats about it and the Gazelles were a big pain in the arse. I only used flat head screwdrivers, soap, and a spare set of hands. Reason for the spare set of hands were that when getting the valve stem through the hole and putting the last bit of tire in the rim, my small, under strength hands couldn't exert enough force and while fishing for the valve stem, the side wall made my fingers sore quickly.

When looking for tires read the reviews and read the forums. As for changing tires its easier if you know the general process. Heres a video on the basic process...