Bead Locks for '12 690 ER

[MrHix]

Hi,

Does anybody use bead locks on their 690 so they can lower the tire pressure for dirt? I wouldn't feel comfortable running 12 psi without a bead lock.

Also, has anyone used the Motion Pro LiteLocs (?) without problems? I am thinking about 2 locks on each wheel to keep some semblance of balance on the wheels.

Thanks,

MrHix

[Savage]

I put the MP light beadlocks on my DR650 and still had to use just as much weight as with a normal lock. I wasn't happy with the added cost. Just FYI

[troy]

Dude. If you want to run dirt trails, get a trail machine. Perhaps this one:
http://www.rideforum.net/viewtopic.php?f=3&t=1576



At the point you find yourself needing to run bead locks and 12 PSI in your 690 tires, perhaps you are moving beyond 690 territory? Let it go, man. Let it go.

[MrHix]

Thanks for the replies. I knew I could count on you Troy to toss some stuff into the fray. Just noticed the MT-21s @ 25 psi don't like the dirt roads very much.

By the way, I need to get out to the KC area to ride with some of you folks soon.

Cheers,

MrHix

[Stu]

I tried one in the front wheel. The new design from MP has some sharp edges and one of them caught my tube and a pinch flat resulted. I took it out and put the stock one back in. I did use the new, lightweight, 10mm hex rim lock securing nut found on the new KTMs.

You can just add weights to the opposite side for balance. I did that. I also mounted my rim lock at about 180 degrees from my innertube stem to help with the balance. Find the place opposite your stem where the spokes point AWAY from each other to drill a hole. It will not be exactly 180 degrees. It is easier to just add weights opposite the stem and stock location for the rim lock. Just seal the weights on with silicon sealer to help keep them in place. Doing that kept my weights on even in a hare scramble.

Stu

[MrHix]

I tried one in the front wheel. The new design from MP has some sharp edges and one of them caught my tube and a pinch flat resulted. I took it out and put the stock one back in. I did use the new, lightweight, 10mm hex rim lock securing nut found on the new KTMs.

You can just add weights to the opposite side for balance. I did that. I also mounted my rim lock at about 180 degrees from my innertube stem to help with the balance. Find the place opposite your stem where the spokes point AWAY from each other to drill a hole. It will not be exactly 180 degrees. It is easier to just add weights opposite the stem and stock location for the rim lock. Just seal the weights on with silicon sealer to help keep them in place. Doing that kept my weights on even in a hare scramble.

Stu

Yea,

I heard about the pinching from Chip Munn. Some of the AMA MX teams tried them and then threw them out. I have already balanced the wheels with stick on weights, so I will just have to balance them again!

Thanks,

MrHix

[bird man]

I have ran at least 3 thousand miles of backroads riding on my 690 at 15 -18 psi without bead locks and have had no problem.