You can sometimes twist the tire and get it to collapse a bit. It won't end up "small" but it'll be smaller. Hold the tire out in front of you with both hands and one hand directly opposite the other on the tire. Then twist your hands in opposite directions.

Asad

Every time I have had wire bead tires shipped to me they were in a big box and not folded or bent

jaretj

Use three loops as "mandmlj" describes on this web page:
http://home.comcast.net/...refolding/index.html


First, pinch the tire into two loops. It's better if one loop is larger than the other (unlike the photo).

Next, fold over one of the loops as shown:

The idea is to get the three "loops" that are shown above to be about the same size. Next, "merge" the two loops shown above on the right:

Finally, bring the left loop up:

...and over:

Slide around a little so the three loops are equal-sized, and adjust the bead so there aren't any kinks in the sidewalls. Tie loosely to keep it from springing open.

Why:
To take with you on a tour, for a spare, or to ship via UPS/USPS in a box.
Alternatives are to not fold at all, which is a bit unwieldy, or to fold in two. I recommend against a two-loop fold, which can kink the bead as shown below:

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Damon Rinard
Engineering Manager,
CSG Road Engineering Department
Cannondale & GT Bicycles
(ex-Cervelo, ex-Trek, ex-Velomax, ex-Kestrel)

You found a great tutorial, but I think the hands in those pics need some sun.

:^)

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Advanced Aero TopTube Storage for Road, Gravel, & Tri...ZeroSlip & Direct-mount, made in the USA.
DarkSpeedWorks.com.....Reviews.....Insta.....Facebook
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A "letter" is cheaper than a "box".
Find out if you can twist&compact enough to have the post office accept your padded, large envelope.

this is how they come when I've gotten them from Nashbar. Never unfolded. I am cheap, so will often buy wire bead tires for winter or for training wheels.