K-bike noob here also, I replaced my rear wheel yesterday (93 k1100lt)- got a new Bridgestone Battleax BT-023 150/70/17 tire on the rim.
Wheel removal was pretty easy with bike on a 2x4 on the center stand, and with the brake caliper unbolted.
Some may claim manufacture defect if you have to deflate the tire, but I don't think you HAVE to deflate the tire I think you only have to unbolt the brake caliper real quick and you can squeeze even an inflated tire through. It does require some twisting, manipulation of angles, stuffed past the rear fender, but its not THAT bad..