Ride ready: patching a tube and setting pressure

Knowing the basics makes any ride more relaxed. This guide covers the patch steps and pressure basics.

Find the puncture

• Re inflate the tube to at least twice its normal width if possible.
• Hold the tube near your lips or ear to listen for or feel leaks, and move it around its circumference.
• If that fails, submerge the tube in water and watch for bubbles.
• Mark the spot with four marks, one on each side of the hole.

Prepare and patch

• Lightly abrade the area around the hole, avoiding heavy pressure.
• Clean with alcohol or a solvent that leaves no film, and let it dry completely.
• Spread a thin, even coat of glue slightly larger than the patch and let it dry for several minutes.
• Centre the patch over the hole and press firmly, especially at the edges, for over a minute if possible.

Check the tyre

Check the tyre for rips, because a damaged casing may not hold a tube. Always replace ripped tyres as soon as possible.

Setting pressure

• Tyres usually show a maximum or recommended range on the sidewall.
• The right pressure depends on load, so a heavier rider needs more pressure than a lighter one.
• The rear tyre should typically run about 10% higher than the front.
• Wider tyres call for lower pressures, narrower tyres for higher pressures.
• Underinflation raises the chance of pinch flats, and overinflation gives a harsher ride.

Carry a pump

Carry a pump rather than relying on CO2 cartridges, which are good for only one use each.