Fixing a Puncture
From DirtyTorque
This explanation refers to repairing a puncture in the field in the case of a tyre fix aerosol not working and the tube being torn too much for a normal patch from a repair kit.
The assumption is that you at least have access to the following:
- Tyre irons
- Cable ties
- Duct tape
- Means of re-inflating (a tyre bomb or more aerosol)
- Remove the tyre (spreading some 2 stroke oil around the tyre bead closest to the rim will help you slide your tyre levers in and out easier)
- Remove the tube and locate the hole/tear
- Fold the tube over the hole/tear
- Duct tape the tube firmly in this position. I.e. the rubber from the tube should help seal itself by folding the tube over the hole/tear
- Use at lease 3 cable ties: One in the centre of the taped area and one about a centimeter on each side. (these are to keep the tube taped and folded when pressure is applied when inflated).
- Snip the ends of the cable ties off
- Duct tape again, don't be shy... you want to protect your tyre from the heads of the cable ties.
- Replace tube
- Replace tyre
- Inflate using a tyre bomb or aerosol tyre fix
- The result will be a rideable wheel with a "fist" sized flat spot - hardly noticeable and certainly good enough to get you home!
