Bicycle Mechanics

Flat tires can be easily repaired – all you need is a tub of water (or another still body of water), and a repair kit (purchasable from any good bike shop). Repairing a tyre would be near impossible without removing the wheel itself first, so turn the bike upside down and unscrew the nuts and bolts. Let out the air from the flat tire by applying pressure to the valve. You will then need to remove the limp tyre from the frame, and this can be achieved by using clamps to pull back the hard rubber from the metal lip until you are able to lift the entire tyre away from the frame. Underneath you will see the tube.

Depending on the damage, you may need to completely replace the tube (and perhaps the outer tire) or you may be able to patch up the puncture. If you do decide to go with the replacement option, a quick trip to your local bike shop or sports store should do the trick – they usually sell outer tires and inner tubes at reasonable prices. If you decide to try and patch the puncture, you will first need to determine where the hole is in the tube, and this is why you need the tub of water. Hold the tube under the water, applying some pressure so that any excess air will escape from the puncture hole. This will show you where the damage is, and will also allow you to decide whether the puncture is repairable. Dry off the tube in the location of the puncture, and using some sandpaper or a file, rough up the area of rubber around the hole. Apply some of the puncture repair glue to the area (this should come in your puncture repair kit or is available from bike stores), and then apply the patch (also from the puncture repair kit). Once dried, the hole should be air tight. You should then be able to place the tube back on the frame of the wheel, place the tire over the top, and then re-inflate the tire.