Wedge Wedge II
Wedge Wedge II: A Smarter Lever for Tough Tyres
The tyre lever: often overlooked, until you’re stranded with a stubborn bead that won’t budge. In the halcyon days before tubeless setups and tighter tolerances, many riders prided themselves on fitting tyres with nothing more than thumb strength and technique. But as modern rims and tyres have become more precise—and less forgiving—the humble lever has become essential. Enter the Birzman Wedge Wedge II: a two-part tool designed to tame even the most uncooperative tyre/rim combos.
Part One: The Rim Clip Lever
The first component of the Wedge Wedge II is a refined take on the classic tyre lever. Constructed from glass-fibre reinforced high-polymer, it measures 120×27×6mm and features a clever innovation: the Rim Clip. This mid-lever recess allows you to clip it securely between the rim and tyre, anchoring the bead in place and preventing the all-too-familiar game of “tyre chase” during installation.
It’s a small but effective solution to a common frustration. The lever also includes a spoke hook at one end and a subtly curved profile for better ergonomics and easier insertion. A touch of flex in the material helps reduce the risk of rim damage – something anyone who’s ever damaged an alloy rim with a metal lever will appreciate. Yes, I’ve been that person!
Part Two: The Wedge Wedge II
The second piece is where things get interesting. Also made from reinforced polymer, the Wedge Wedge II measures 205×34×17mm and weighs in at 87g. At first glance, it resembles an oversized lever – ideal for wider rims – but its real utility lies in its integrated bead hook.
Flip it over and you’ll find a retractable hook arm, magnetically secured when not in use. During installation, the main body slots onto the rim while the hook grabs the tyre bead. A simple levering motion then lifts the bead over the rim.
It’s not a tool you’ll need every time, but when you do, it’s a game-changer. Particularly tight tubeless setups or cold-weather installs are where the Wedge Wedge II shines. There’s a bit of a learning curve to get the technique dialled, but once mastered, it makes short work of even the most stubborn tyres.
I found that the lever worked best when it came to the point when the tyre was getting really tight. It was then a matter of placing it onto the rim, getting the hook onto the bead and holding them with your other hand to prevent it slipping. As you get more of the tyre in place, the tension reduces the need to keep your hand in place, but I kept it there ‘just in case’.
Final Thoughts
So, is the Wedge Wedge II worth a spot in your kit? If you’ve ever battled a tight tyre at the roadside – or if you run setups known for being a challenge – it’s a resounding yes. While bulkier than a standard lever, it’s still jersey-pocket friendly and could be a lifesaver mid-ride. It’s also a great option for riders with reduced hand strength or dexterity.
In short: a smart, well-executed tool that earns its keep when the going gets tight. Take a look at the Birzman website for more details. Other Birzman products we’ve reviewed: Maha Apogee IV, Zacoo Tiny Tanker.
