Removing the tire from the electric scooter Xiaomi is a task that sooner or later every owner faces.Whether you plan to replace a punctured camera, install tubeless rubber or simply service the wheel, the process requires accuracy and knowledge of the key nuances. Unlike bicycle wheels, the design of scooters has its own characteristics: a narrow rim, rigid sides and integrated brake mechanisms (on the rear wheel). Dismantling errors can damage the rim, camera, or even electronics, especially when it comes to models with an integrated motor-wheel (Xiaomi). M365 Pro, Pro 2, 4 Pro).
In this article, we will discuss three main ways to remove tires (using mounting blades, without tools and for a motor wheel), list the necessary tools and materials, and warn about typical errors. Special attention will be paid to models with tubeless tires (for example, Xiaomi Electric Scooter 4 Pro), where the process has its own subtleties. If you have never done this work before, do not worry: with the right approach, even beginners can do it.
What tools will be needed to remove the tire
Before you get to work, prepare everything you need, and not even one tool can make a simple procedure a painful process, and here is the minimum set that most Xiaomi models will need:
- π§ Installation blades (2-3 pieces) - plastic or metal with rounded edges are better, so as not to damage the rim.
- π¨ Keys or heads 5-8 mm (to remove the brake disc/motor cover if required).
- π οΈ Set of screwdrivers (cross and flat) - for dismantling protective covers.
- π§΄ Soapy solution or WD-40 β It will make it easier to put the tire back in (especially for tubeless tires).
- π¦ Spare camera/tyre (if you are planning to replace) β check compatibility with your scooter model.
- π§€ Gloves - protect your hands from dirt and sharp edges of the rim.
For models with a motor wheel (Xiaomi M365, Pro 2) additionally may be required:
- π Multimeter β to check the integrity of the wiring after disassembly.
- π Screeds or insulation - for fixing cables when removing the wheel.
β οΈ Warning: If your scooter is warranty-worthy, self-repairing the wheel may invalidate it. In the case of a motor-wheel, the risk of damage to electronics is higher - if you are not sure of your abilities, contact the service center.
Scooter preparation: removal of wheel and brake mechanism
Before you get to the tire, you have to dismantle the wheel itself, and the process is different for the front and rear wheels, and for models with and without a motor.
- Turn off the power. Take out the battery or disconnect the power connector (on models with a quick-removal battery).
- Turn the scooter over so that the wheel you're working with is on top, put a soft cloth under the handle so that you don't scratch the body.
- Remove protective covers: On the front wheel, it is usually enough to unscrew 2-4 screws with a cross screwdriver. On the rear wheel (with a motor), you will need to remove the brake disc.
Disconnect the brake cable.
Xiaomi 1S
Remove the wheel from the axle.
WD-40
On motor wheel models (Xiaomi M365 Pro, Pro 2), the process is complicated by the need to disconnect the power wires and the speed sensor. Never pull the wires - first turn off the connectors, first taking a picture of their location! The wires are usually fixed with screeds or sticky tape - they also need to be carefully removed.
What to do if the wheel nut does not unscrew?
Removal of the tire from the rim: step-by-step instructions
When the wheel is removed from the scooter, you can start to dismantle the tire, which requires patience, especially if the rubber has been in the vein for a long time and has been stuck to the rim.
Method 1: Using mounting blades (classical method)
- Pull the air out of the chamber. Unscrew the nipple (if the camera is intact) or press it to release air.
- Insert the first shoulder blade. Start with the side opposite the nipple. Tap the edge of the tire and lock the shoulder blade on the rim.
- Insert the second blade at a distance of 10-15 cm from the first. Carefully raise the edge of the tire above the rim.
- Swipe around with a blade, gradually pulling the tire overboard. If the rubber is tight, use the third blade to fix.
- Take the camera off. Once one side of the tire is released, pull the camera out from under the second side.
- Remove the tyre completely. Now you can pull the rim out and separate the tyre from the second side.
After removing the wheel with the motor, do not put it on the side - this can damage the bearings. It is better to hang on a hook or put it on a soft surface with the motor up.
| Model scooter | Type of wheel | Features of dismantling | Recommended instrument |
|---|---|---|---|
| Xiaomi M365 | Motor wheel (rear) | The brake disc is attached to 3 bolts, and the speed sensor wires are fragile. | Key to 5 mm, mounting blades, WD-40 |
| Xiaomi Pro 2 | Motor wheel (rear) | More powerful motor, heavier wheel, speed sensor connector with lock. | Dynamometer key, plastic blades |
| Xiaomi 1S | Front/rear without motor | Easy to disassemble, the brake cable can get in the way. | Screwdriver cross, key 14 mm |
| Xiaomi 4 Pro | Tight tyres | The tire sits tightly on the rim, requires soap solution to install. | Installation blades with rounded edges, compressor |
β οΈ Note: On Xiaomi Pro 2 and later, the speed sensor is calibrated automatically when you start it after assembly. If the scooter twitches or shows speed incorrectly after repair, reset the settings through the Mi Home app.
How to remove a tire from a tubeless tire (Xiaomi 4 Pro, Essential)
Tubeless tires on Xiaomi 4 Pro and Essential scooters are harder to remove because of the tight fit on the rim. The main problem is the risk of damage to the sealed layer, after which the wheel will poison the air.
- On tubeless tires, the nipple can be hidden under the cap. Unscrew it completely.
- Press the side of the tire from the rim on the opposite side of the nipple. Use mounting blades or a special tool for tubeless tires.
- Put the blade under the side and gently turn the tire outwards. Move gradually, without trying to break the rubber with a jerk.
- Lift the side around the perimeter. The tubeless tire sits very tightly -- it might require force.
- Remove the tyre from the rim, and once one side is released, the other side will be removed more easily.
When installing the tubeless tire back:
- π§Ό Lubricate the sides of the tire and rim with soapy solution (do not use oil!).
- π¨ Pump the wheel with a compressor, not a hand pump β high initial pressure is required to βlandβ the sides.
- π Check the leakproofness: if you hear hissing, the tire is not firmly set. Try again to pump or add soap solution.
π‘
If the tubeless tire doesn't sit on the rim when pumped, try this trick: pump it to maximum pressure, then press the nupple sharply to release air. The sides will "stand" in place from the backlash.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even experienced craftsmen sometimes make mistakes when working with Xiaomi scooters, here are the most common mistakes and ways to prevent them:
- π§ Rim damage with sharp blades, use a tool with rounded edges or wrap metal blades with insulation.
- π₯ Dramatically lowering the air from the chamber can cause it to become pinched.
- π Forgotten connectors on the motor wheel. Always take pictures of the location of the wires before turning off.
- π Incorrectly installed tire (inside out) Most tires have arrows indicating the direction of rotation (β Rotation).
- π§Ό Using oil instead of soap solution, it corrodes rubber and spoils the tightness of tubeless tires.
Another common problem is that the camera is damaged during installation, so you can avoid this.
- Before installing the camera, slightly pump it (until you give the shape) - so it will not twist.
- Make sure the camera nipple is in the correct position relative to the hole in the rim.
- Do not use screwdrivers to "swipe" the camera - only hands or plastic shoulder blades.
π‘
If the wheel is eight-fold or vibrates when you're driving, it's likely that the tire or the camera is unevenly mounted, let the air down and reset the rubber, evenly spreading the sides around the rim.
When to contact the service: signs of serious problems
Not all breakdowns can be repaired on their own, but here are some cases where you can trust the professionals:
- π₯ Motor wheel damage (sparks, burning smell, uneven rotation) This may indicate a breakdown in the winding or wear of bearings.
- π§ Electrolyte leak from the battery (white plaque on the terminals or bloated banks).
- π Breaking wires inside a motor wheel, soldering them without experience is dangerous, risking short circuits.
- π οΈ Rim deformation (e.g. after a heavy impact) It is impossible to restore geometry without special equipment.
If you notice at least one of these signs, don't keep operating the scooter - it can be dangerous.The average cost of a diagnostic at a Xiaomi service center is between 500 and 1,500 rubles, which is cheaper than repairing after a failed self-intervention.