How To Fix Bicycle Flat Tire
Must-Have Skill: Fix Your Bicycle Flat
Fixing a bicycle flat tire is an essential skill that every cyclist should possess. With a few simple steps, you can get back on the road in no time. First, you must locate the source of the puncture. Inspect the tire carefully, spinning it slowly while searching for any signs of damage such as nails or glass shards. Once you have found the cause, remove it and keep it aside to prevent further damage.
Removing Flat Tire: Step-by-Step Guide
After locating the puncture, it is time to remove the tire from the wheel. Start by deflating the tire completely by pressing down on the valve stem until all the air has escaped. Next, using a tire lever or a flat-headed screwdriver, carefully pry the tire away from the rim, starting on one side and working your way around until the entire tire is off the rim. Be cautious not to damage the inner tube while doing this.
Inspecting Inner Tube for Punctures
Now that the tire is off, it’s time to examine the inner tube for any punctures. Inflate the inner tube slightly and listen for the sound of escaping air or feel for any leaks by running your hand around the tube’s surface. Once the puncture is located, mark it so you can find it more easily later. After identifying the spot, remove any debris stuck to the tube and dry the area thoroughly.
Final step: Patch, reassemble, inflate tire
The final step is patching the inner tube and reassembling the tire. Using sandpaper or a file, roughen the surface around the puncture area to help the patch adhere better. Apply rubber cement generously over the sanded area and allow it to dry for a minute or two. Once dry, press the patch firmly onto the tube, ensuring there are no air bubbles. Afterward, inflate the tube slightly to check if it holds air before reinstalling it into the tire. Finally, carefully place the tire back on the rim, making sure it is aligned properly, and inflate it to the recommended pressure.
About me
I got my first bicycle when I was 3 years old. 10x years later I still love to cycle! In the meantime, I also developed an absolute obsession with motorbikes! I write about my hobbies and lifestyle on this blog.