Yeah, you should do it yourself at least once, just so you know you can. Half the time I pull a wheel and take it somewhere local and the other half I do it myself.

Definitely watch the you tube videos -- thee are many of them.

 

When you change the rear tire do you guys align it somehow? I was told by my local shop to bring my bike in for a tire change and alignment. I did see tools online to do this myself, but I was just wondering your opinions.

 

I 2nd the Bead Buddy. I also use 2 tire irons and lots of lube. Makes the job a snap. Glad it all worked out for you.