How to patch your tires on the go

One of the most common issues in cycling is getting a flat tire while on the road. Here in Peru, this happens frequently due to the routes, paths, and slopes that many cyclists traverse. In this post, we will show you how to solve this problem in an appropriate and simple way. So pay attention and follow these steps for any emergency on the road.

Photo: Bicimecanica

First, let's see what tools we need to assemble our Flat Tire Repair Kit: Patches, tire levers, portable inflator, glue, and sandpaper.

Photo: fransaiz

1- Remove the inner tube. Using the tire levers, we need to take out the flat inner tube from the tire. What you need to do is insert one end of the tire lever between the rim and the edge of the tire, and lever it to dismount the tire. Sometimes it is necessary to loosen the brakes a bit to remove the tire more easily.

 Photo: enbicipormadrid

2 - Locate the puncture. Inflate the inner tube enough so that the air pressure can escape from the tube and allow us to quickly locate the puncture. To find the puncture, you must be patient and go through your tube inch by inch. You can locate it more easily by submerging the tube in water or simply passing the tube close to your ear until you hear and feel the air escaping.

 Photo: pad3.whstatic

3- Check your tire. Once we have located the puncture, we proceed to check the tire to find the object that caused the hole. If we find it, we remove it and continue checking the rest of the tire to prevent any other punctures. Most punctures occur on the outer part of the tire, but sometimes, the spokes of our tires can also cause punctures, so it is advisable to use protection between the rim and the tube.

Photo: 4.bp.blogspot

4- Apply the patch. This is the part where you must pay attention to all the details. To stick the patch, you must first gently sand the area around the hole so that the patch adheres better. Second, you must keep the tube taut so that the patch sticks correctly. Then, add a good amount of glue to the puncture area and let it dry for 30 seconds to 1 and a half minutes. Now, place the patch and press firmly on the tube for approximately 10 minutes.

 Photo: cyclecity

5- Remount your tire. To do this, slightly inflate your tube. First, we mount the tire on the rim. Then we insert the tube between the tire and the rim, starting by locating the correct position of the valve (or Presta valve). Finally, we just need to adjust all tire components properly. Inflate the tire and roll it to naturally fit the rim. Now, just put your tire back on your bike and inflate it to continue your journey.

Photo: surconewyork

Remember to always carry the appropriate protection and your anti-flat kit so that nothing stops your adventures.

 

See also:

• John Tomac: The Essence of Mountain Bike.
• How to Choose Your Bike According to Your Size.
• Sebastián Alfaro: A Rocket on Wheels
• World Cycling Elite Present at the VIII Edition of the Tour de San Luis
• Pedaling for Children