Fixing a Punctured Inner Tube on a Bicycle: A Step-by-Step Guide
In the spirit of our 'New to Riding' week running from March 10 to March 17, we're excited to share a practical guide on how to fix a puncture, an essential skill for every cyclist.
Whether you're a newcomer to the world of cycling or simply want to brush up on your bike maintenance skills, this guide will take you through the steps involved in fixing a puncture.
Step 1: Remove the Wheel
To begin, you'll need to remove the wheel from the frame. For fixed wheel or commuter bikes, you might need a 15mm spanner.
Step 2: Deflate the Tyre
Next, deflate the tyre fully. Remove the dust cap, unscrew and remove the valve retaining nut, and press the pin in the valve to release the air for Schrader valves, or unscrew the top nut and press in for Presta valves.
Step 3: Loosen the Tyre
Using tyre levers, loosen the tyre on one side and lift it away from the rim.
Step 4: Find the Puncture
Remove the inner tube and inspect it for the puncture.
Step 5: Clean and Prepare
Clean the area around the hole, and roughen the surface to ensure a good bond with the patch. Apply glue to the area and stick on a patch, pressing down to secure it.
Step 6: Replace the Inner Tube
Replace the inner tube, and refit the tyre. Work around the rim, switching from one side to the other so you finish opposite the valve.
Step 7: Inflate the Tyre
Inflate the tyre to the preferred pressure, which can vary depending on the type of bike and riding conditions. A quick visual inspection of the tyre when inflated, around 30-40psi, can help detect any bulges or issues.
For tubeless road tyre setups, the process is slightly different. You'll need a tubeless repair kit with a plug tool and plugs. Follow the manufacturer's instructions to plug the hole.
Essential Tools
Essential tools for fixing a puncture include tyre levers, two or more spare inner tubes, patches/repair kit, some bits of old tyre to reinforce big holes, a pump, spanner (if your bike uses wheel nuts), a multitool, a mobile phone, and a good multitool should be part of your ride essentials.
Be Prepared
Being prepared to change an inner tube involves carrying road cycling essentials and having the expertise to carry out the process. Practice mending a puncture in the comfort of your own home before setting out on a ride.
Remember, some tyres can be tough to remove and fit, and some tyre and wheel combinations even more so. If you can't remove or fit a bike tyre at home without assistance, you won't be able to remove it on your own out on the bike in potentially bad weather.
Join the 'New to Riding' Event
If you're new to cycling and live in Karlsruhe, join us for the 'New to Riding' event on Wednesday evenings, meeting at 17:45 at the ADFC office (Welfenstr. 13, 76135 Karlsruhe). No registration is required.
Stay tuned for more tips, tricks, and inspiration for new riders as part of our 'New to Riding' week. Happy cycling!
