No-flat bicycle tubes give riders the confidence that their tires can survive punctures from objects such as sharp metal or broken glass. When objects are removed from the tread, the no-flat tube seals the puncture, although it won't seal an actual cut in the tire. Before installing no-flat tubes, you'll need to take the wheels off your bicycle. The procedure varies; refer to your repair manual. Many people find it easier to work on bicycle tires on the floor rather than on a raised surface. A piece of carpet protects against scratches and keeps the wheel from sliding around.
Step 1
Deflate the tire. Depending on the type of valve stem, you'll need to do so by removing the valve cap or by removing the valve stem insert with a valve stem tool. Position the prongs of the valve stem tool over the small crossbar inside the valve stem, then turn the tool counterclockwise to remove the insert. Allow the tire to deflate completely.
Step 2
Push down on the sidewall of the tire and unseat the tire bead from the upper edge of the wheel rim. Push down on the sidewall in several places as needed until the tire bead is completely separated from the wheel rim.
Step 3
Insert the flat end of the tire lever between the tire bead and the rim. Pry down against the wheel rim with the tire lever to lift that portion of the bead above the rim. Grip the bead with your free hand and lift it up.
Step 4
Lift the edge of the tire bead at several points around the rim until the bead is above the edge of the rim. Set the tire lever aside and pull the deflated inner tube out of the tire. Inspect the inner walls of the tire to make sure there are no objects or debris inside the tire. Remove any sharp objects by pulling them out of the tire tread with pliers.
Step 5
Place the no-flat tube on the tire and smooth out the tube so it conforms to the circular shape of the tire. Insert the valve stem of the no-flat tube into valve hole in the wheel rim from the inside. Pull the stem through from the outside of the rim. Put the cap on the valve stem to keep it from retracting inside the tire.
Step 6
Lift the bead of the tire just above the rim with one hand, and use your other hand to gently push the no-flat tube into the tire. Lift the bead in several places as you go, and push the tube in so it is in place around the wheel rim.
Step 7
Remove the valve cap from the valve stem and use a tire pump to partially inflate the no-flat tube. Inflate the tube just enough so it begins to fill. Make sure the tube is uniform and not twisted. If necessary, manipulate the tube by hand until it is uniform. Deflate the tube.
Step 8
Lubricate the edge of the wheel rim and the tire bead using a soft-bristle brush and soapy water. Set the brush aside. Use both hands to put downward pressure on the side of the tire and push the tire bead below the edge of the wheel rim. Work your way around the tire until the bead is under the edge of the wheel rim.
Step 9
Thread the valve stem insert clockwise into the valve stem and tighten it with the valve stem tool. Refer to the no-flat tube package or instructions for the correct air pressure. Use the tire pump and a tire pressure gauge to inflate the tire to the correct pressure.
Things You'll Need
- Valve stem tool
- Tire lever
- Pliers
- Soft bristle brush
- Soapy water
- Tire pump
- Tire pressure gauge
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