How To Change A Road Bike Tire

Getting a flat tire on your bike can be frustrating, but with a few easy tools, it can be fixed in no time at all. Deflate your tire, find the leak, and decide whether to patch the tube or purchase a new one. Pump the tire back up, and finish your ride.

Step 1

Remove the wheel. Turn the bike upside down and use a 15mm box or crescent wrench to remove the nuts. Release the brakes in order to get the wheel to move through the brake pads. Remove the tire from the rim using a tire iron to push it over the edge of the bike rim---sometimes two levers are necessary to remove an especially stubborn tire.

Step 2

Pump up the tire. This allows the air to be forces out of the hole faster, enabling you to find the leak. If there is a nail or thorn in the tire, carefully remove it now.

Step 3

Decide to patch or replace the tube. Patching is a less expensive method to repairing leaks. When you have identified the leak spot, mark the leak and then slowly release all the air. Use a piece of sandpaper to scrape the area around the hole in order to allow the glue to get a good binding. Apply a thin layer of glue and allow to dry for about five minutes. Apply the patch onto the tube and apply pressure for about one minute. Then carefully remove the clear plastic from the patch. If you opt to replace the tube, look for one that is heavy duty in order to prevent future leaks.

Step 4

Put the wheel back together. Start by putting enough air into the tube to give it form, then put it into the tire. Put the tire back onto the rim. Make sure to stick the valve through the valve hole and press the lip of the tire onto one side of the wheel rim. Use a tire lever to get the tire securely onto the rim. Finally, put the wheel back on the bike, making sure that it is on straight and secure.

Step 5

Pump up the tire again. This helps to make sure that the leak has been fixed. Slowly release a small amount of air. Inflate it one more time, making sure it is firm. Place the valve cap back on and connect the brake cable.