Are you tired of changing your bike tires at the side of the road? Getting flat tires every now and then can be really annoying and time-consuming. It’s a good thing there are some things you can do to prevent flat tires.
How to Prevent Flat Tires
Watch out for shiny objects.
When you’re going down the road, as much as you can, avoid riding where debris collects. Nails, glass, wire, small and sharp rocks and the like are all pushed to the shoulder of the road by the sweeping action of car tires. That’s where small shards of broken glass are, the things that get stuck in your tire, can gradually work their way down and eventually puncture your tube and lose air.
So, it’s important to watch out when you see small shiny objects ahead. If you cannot avoid them, walk your bike around them. If you didn’t see the glass in time and you just rode over it, get off your bike and inspect your tires at once. This is one effective way to prevent flat tires.
Rub away your troubles.
When you hit a patch of shiny objects or bunch of small sharp rocks, once you’re past it, rub your glove against your tire as it turns a few times. By doing so, you are dislodging any small sharp object that may have embedded in your tire before it gets a chance to go deeper. It is safest to do this by dismounting and spinning your tire by hand.
Check your tires after rides.
Checking your tires after each ride will also help prevent flat tires. This will just take you a few minutes but can save you a lot of hassle and headache later on. To check your tires, slowly spin each wheel as you closely look for embedded stuffs or damage on your tires, such as cuts, punctures, or cracks on the top and sides.
Patch minor cuts.
If you spot a puncture or cut during inspection, just dig out any debris and seal the hole with super glue or shoe goo. If you can, place the adhesive down in the puncture. Let the air out of your tire and pump if full again. This helps set the sealant in the gouge and possibly protects against further problems. If the cut is unrepairable, it may be necessary to replace your tire.
If the cut is not repairable, you may need to replace the tire. This can offer you the chance to buy decent puncture-resistant tires.
To be spared from hassles caused by punctured tires, consider getting a bicycle with slimed tubes, a self-repairing flat prevention system. Visit Zize Bikes, the maker of extra strong custom built bicycles for every body, including bicycles for heavy people that can support riders up to 550 pounds.
