How to: Fix a Flat Tire
This article will discuss the removal and installation of a new tube.
Video Tutorial Coming Soon!
What you need
• Repair stand (optional)
• Pump
• Tire levers
• New tube
Step 1: Open the brake
This step can be skipped you have a disc brakes.
Squeeze the brake arms together and disconnect cable noodle from linkage.
Step 2: Remove the wheel
If your rear tire is flat, shifting to the smallest cog on your cassette will make the wheel removal and reinstallation easier.
Open the quick release lever, loosen it slightly and the wheel should drop out freely.
Step 3: Remove the tire & inner tube
Separate the bead of the tire from the rim by pressing down on the sidewall of the tire firmly.
Once the bead is separated from the rim, use the tire levers to remove one side of the tire and take out the deflated inner tube.
You can leave one side of the tire on to make it easier for you when you’re putting it all back together.
Step 4: Inspect rim, tire & tube
This is important to determine what caused the flat. Flats can be caused by objects that have penetrated the tire, or by a something called a “pinch flat”. If you don’t find a foreign object or a puncture in the tire or tube, a pinch flat could be the cause. This can be identified by two parallel cuts on the inner tube signifying where it was pinched between the rim and the tire. Pinch flats are often caused by running too low of tire pressure.
Make sure to also inspect the rim tape to ensure it is not damaged.
Step 5: Install new inner tube
It can be helpful to add some air to the tube so it holds its shape when installing it in the tire. This will also help you avoid pinching the tube when re-seating the tire on the rim.
Start by placing the valve stem through the rim and insert the rest of the tube into the tire.
Once the tube is in place, get the tire to sit back on the rim by working it around the rest of the wheel.
Ideally, you will be able to do this without the help of tire levers. However, you can use them if you need a little extra strength. Just be careful not to pinch the new tube!
Step 6: Inflate the new tube & seat tire
Check your tires sidewall for the suggested pressure range.
Watch the tire to make sure it is seated properly on the rim. If your pump does not have a pressure gauge, fill it up until it is firm enough to support your weight on the bicycle, then check it with a gauge when you get home.
Step 7: Reinstall wheel
Once the wheel is in its place, you can place the bike on the ground and ensure the wheel is on straight. If the wheel is not on straight, you can tell by the amount of clearance on each side of the tire. This can be corrected by opening the quick release lever, letting the wheel settle into place, and closing the lever.
Step 8: Reconnect brake
Double check that the wheel spins freely and is not only centered in the frame, but also between the brake pads.
If all of these checks are complete, you are good to ride!
