Arming yourself with information and the proper tools makes all the difference when you need to fix a flat tire on your mountain bike. In order to become proficient at these skills, practice them before they are needed on the trail.
Step 1
Stabilize the bike quickly by flipping it over and resting it on the handlebars and seat.
Loosen the brake by squeezing the brakes together and releasing the brake cable. Open the quick release lever enabling the tire to be removed.
Step 2
Insert a tire lever between the tire and rim. Pull the tire lever around the rim, breaking the seal and remove the tube.
Step 3
Inflate the tube by attaching the hand pump valve or the CO2 inflator to the valve at the end of the stem. Find the hole in the tube by looking, listening and feeling for escaping air. Circle the hole with a pen to mark the puncture. Release the remaining air in the tube.
Step 4
Open the tube repair kit, remove the sandpaper or scraper and buff an area around the puncture at least as big as the patch. Apply glue over the buffed area on the tube. Let the glue dry completely, approximately 5 minutes. This step is often misunderstood and when not followed, leads to a patch that will not adhere properly.
Step 5
Peel the backing off the patch and place it firmly over the glued area.
Step 6
Check the tire for sharp objects by running your finger along the inside of the tire. Remove any sharp objects you may find. Insert the tube back into the tire making sure the tube stem is inserted into the stem hole in the rim.
Step 7
Push the tire back into the rim using your thumbs. Check the tube to see that is does not get pinched between the tire and the rim.
Step 8
Open the valve at the end of the tube stem and attach the hand-pump or the CO2 inflator. Inflate the tire to the recommended psi (pounds per square inch), which is found on the outside edge of the tire. Close the valve when finished.
Step 9
Insert the tire, remembering to tighten the brake and close the quick release lever. Spin the wheel to see that it is not rubbing against the rim.
Tips and Warnings
- You may have more than one puncture so be sure to check for multiple holes. Tubes may be patched multiple times and still be in good condition to use.
- Carefully run your finger along the inside of the tire when checking for implements. There may be sharp objects that can cut you.
Things You'll Need
- Tire levers
- Bike tube patch kit
- Hand-pump or CO2 inflator and cartridge
- Pen
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