Flat tires on your bike are always a frustrating thing to have to deal with. However, all of this can be avoided if you're adequately prepared. So grab your tools and follow these simple directions to get back on that road in no time. Before we begin, make sure you have all the necessary tools: a spare tube, a pump, tire levers, spare tube, wedges, and rim tape.
Remove The Wheel
- We’ll begin by loosening the nuts that hold the axle to the frame. Use lubricant if you run into problems while trying to loosen them.
- Remove the wheel from the frame. If it's the rear tire, you will need to lift the chain clear of the gear cluster. For better instructions on how to do this, watch the video above for a step by step run down.
- Deflate the tube completely by pressing down on the small plunger located in the center of your tire/inner part of the valve.
- To remove the tire, use tire levers, or a similar object. With the first lever, pry the tire over the rim. Repeat process four inches away with a second lever, move lever around the rim to release the tire.
- Remove the wheel and tube completely - you may need to unscrew a small nut at the base of the valve stem to take out the inner tube.
Inspect, Repair, or Replace
- Make sure inspect the punctured tube thoroughly - check the outer surface of the tire for any signs or foreign objects (cuts, tears, etc.) that may have punctured your tire (make sure to also check the inner surface of the tire for similar damage).
- Wash up and dry up the damaged area (rubbing down the damaged surface with sandpaper will help the glue adhesive stick).
- Adjust patch and place over adhesive after removing all sharp/foreign objects from inside the tire casing. Replace the inner tube or tube and tire if damage is severe
- Before replacing, make sure to purchase the right tube and tire size. Measurements can be found on the old tire.
Replace Your Wheel
- We’ll begin by checking the tire wall for an arrow or similar symbol to indicate the direction of rotation - some tires have a "direction specific" tread pattern.
- Put one side in first, then ease the partially inflated tube into the tire and locate the valve. Make sure no part of the tube is sticking out.
- Starting at the tire edge closest to the valve, use your thumbs to work the other side of tire over the rim and into the well. You may need to use the levers to do the last bit and pop it back into the rim.
- Use your thumbs to ease the tire from the rim around the entire wheel, make sure the tire is not pinching any part of the tube. When you inflate the tube, if it's pinching, it will pop and you will have to start over.
- Inflate the tube slowly and carefully, while checking to make sure the tire is on evenly and nothing is "pinching."
- You’ve done it! Enjoy your ride!
Photo Credit: Getty Images
