2011 Kawasaki KX250F Owners Manual - Page 145

MAINTENANCE AND ADJUSTMENT 143 A. Spoke Wrench A. Bead Protector Nut Bead Protector There is a bead protector nut on the both wheels. The bead protector nut prevents the tire and tube from slipping on the rim and damaging the valve stem. Valve stem damage may cause the tube to leak, necessitating tube replacement. In order to keep the tire and tube in position on the rim, inspect the bead protector nut before riding and tighten it if necessary. Tighten the valve stem nut finger tight only. Rim Runout Set up a dial gauge on the side of the rim and rotate the wheel to measure its axial runout. The difference between the highest and lowest readings is the amount of runout. Set up the dial gauge on the inner circumference of the rim and rotate the wheel to measure its radial runout. The difference between the highest and lowest readings is the amount of runout. A certain amount of rim warpage (runout) can be corrected by recentering the rim, that is, by loosening some spokes and tightening other to change the position of certain portions of the rim. If the rim is badly bent, however, it should be replaced. • •