Any tips on tire changing

It has several years since i had my racer friend change my tires for me Well, I broke down and invested in my own tire de-beader and tire irons ( i am making my own balancer) any of you "pros" out there have any tips yes, i used plenty of soapy water, but i had a hella time getting the tire on and off, expecially that last 12" took a looooonnnngggg time compared to what my friend was able to do it in worst of all, i put damn knicks on my rims i ordered some plastic rim protectors, but wouldn't you know it, the lightest and cheapest part is the slowest to be shipped (i got tires in 2 days(:confused: :D ) i now have wrapped some tape on the irons to prevent future paint knicks any advice to help me get better would be appreciated:hellobye

Everything you ever wanted to know about changing your motorcycle tires: http://www.clarity.net/~adam/tire-changing-doc.html

man that is long and detailed report i will have to print that one (at work)

Instead of using soapy water, spray-on furniture/household polish is great (In UK Mr Sheen or similar). Far less messy, easily applied. Tyres slip on a treat. Bonus - any residue helps polish wheel rim after installation. Both for removal and fitting - get as much of the tyre bead down into the central valley (the part where the valve sits which extends right around the whole wheel). This will create slack as you lever the bead over the rim. Rob

Simple green (full streangth) works great.