Flat Tire? Don’t Let That Ruin a Good Time

You decided to ride your bike to work! It’s only 20 minutes, and they say it’s healthy. The ride in couldn’t have been more amazing and by the time you gathered up your things at the end of the day, you were convinced they were right. 

You had a great day. As you were waiting for the elevator, the boss caught up to say, Great presentation today. Check in with me tomorrow. You smiled a wave goodbye and practically skipped out the door. 

Then… you saw it right away, and felt your heart sink. A flat back tire. It doesn’t matter what happened, maybe you hit a curb too hard, maybe debris in the street. 

But don’t worry! It’s a 10 minute fix, tops. And the front tire is even quicker!

Tools & Materials 

Your ‘Every Ride Carry Bag’ should have gloves, a new, properly sized innertube, a set of tire levers, an air supply, and a wrench, if you don’t have quick release axles. Other tools are also in the bag, but that’s all you need for this emergency. 

Step 1: Getting Ready

Gloves on and a deep breath. This is the back wheel, so it’s just a little more complicated, as we have the gears to deal with. But don’t worry. Follow these steps and it will be done in no time.

First hint, switch to the smallest chainring in the front (probably the lowest gear) and the smallest cog in the back (probably the highest gear). Less tension on the chain will make this super easy.

 Release the braking mechanism, so you can get the wheel off. Then flip your bike over. 

Second hint, find a tree with a low hanging limb to act as a bike stand. 

Step 2: Remove Rear Wheel

If you’re techie enough to have quick release skewers, just flip that lever and get the wheel loose. If the wheel is bolted in, grab your wrench and remember the nut goes lefty loosey to release the wheel. 

As you pull the wheel from the dropouts, the back gears will naturally move out of the way, as long as the chain isn’t too tight. Gently push the gears if needs be to free the wheel. You’ll likely need to lift the chain out of the way as well.

Third hint, always have gloves in the bag. 

Step 3: Switch In New Innertube

Next twist off the valve stem cover. Open the valve if you have a presta stem. Regardless of stem type, deflate the tire by pressing the metal piece that goes inside the stem. 

Push the tire away from one side of the rim to make room for two levers. Position the levers under the tire edge, pry them down, and hook one lever to a spoke. Use the other lever to work your way around the rim. If the tire is new, it might be tight. Your lever set came with three levers in case you need to “step” your way around the wheel. Leave the other edge of the tire in the rim to save time. Remove the damaged innertube. 

Run a gloved hand around the inside of the tire to check for any debris that could damage the new innertube. Be sure to use a glove in case the debris is sharp. 

Put a little air in the new innertube for shape. Check for twists and kinks. Next, deflate the innertube. Getting the innertube in place will be much harder with it inflated.

Face the wheel, with the hole for the valve stem at the top. Put the valve stem through the hole and seat the tire bead under the rim. Work your way around the wheel down each side positioning the tire with your hands as much as possible. The levers can pinch or snag the innertube.

When you reach the bottom, for better leverage, you’ll spin the wheel up, so the unseated section is at eye level. Now, push the tire away from rim and use a lever if needed to force the tire into position. 

Slightly inflate the inner tube, so you can check to make sure the tire has seated properly.  Then fully inflate to the recommended pressure. Close the valve if you have a presta stem. And replace the stem cover. Almost done!

Step 4: Reinstall the Rear Wheel

This is the easy part. Reverse the steps above. 

Position the axle above the dropouts on the frame. If you followed the steps above the smallest cog of the gears should be directly above the derailleur. Press down and the derailleur should allow the wheel to slide into place. If not, you can easily adjust to that highest gear now. 

Double check the fit, then tighten the quick release skewer or bolt back down, as recommended; not too loose or too tight. Spin the wheel. Does it move smoothly and straight, like it should? Turn the pedals. Are the chain and derailler in position?

Perfect! Flip the bike back over and re-engage the brakes. Check that they work, and add this skill to your CV! 

You never know when or where you’ll get a flat. Knowing how to change your own tire is a must. 

Last hint, you’ll want to do this at least once, at home, when you’re not under any pressure. You can try to put the same innertube back in, but it might be too stretched out. Sacrifice the innertube, and do it anyway. The practice will make you confident, and you may even enjoy the satisfaction of accomplishment.

Remember! Never forget your emergency bag. Take it with you every trip, even the short ones. Some even attach to the bike frame. Avoid that awkward phone call. Uuh, can you come get me? You’ll love the independence!

Be safe out there and enjoy your ride!