How to Patch a Bicycle Tube
In this instructable I am describing how to patch a bicycle tube. I am creating this instructable for a school assignment.
Does your bike have a flat? Fear not, for I am here to show you step by step how to fix the tube and get your bike performing in tip top shape again!
INFORMATION ABOUT POTENTIAL HARM: Be careful when patching a bike tube! There are many opportunities to get your fingers pinched! Always be mindful about where you are sticking your fingers, especially when you are flipping the bike over and removing the wheel from the frame!
Supplies
A box wrench (to loosen the bolts holding the wheel in place)
A screwdriver (to let any excess air out of the tube to make removal easier. FOR SCHRADER VALVES ONLY)
A tube patch (these typically come in repair kits that can be bought at your local department store for a few dollars)
A set of tire levers (these often come with bicycle repair kits in sets of 2-4)
A large bowl of water (it may seem strange, but trust me, it’ll all make sense!)
A bike pump
A pen
Identify the Problem Tire
Identify which tire is flat. It should be fairly obvious since the tire will be deflated and not roll as easily.
Assemble the Tools
^^^Gather the tools listed above^^^
Flip the Bike Over
Flip the bike upside down on the ground, resting on its seat and handlebars. Pull up a chair or stool to make working easier.
Unhook the Brakes
Disable the brakes on whichever wheel you are removing. How this is done can vary depending on the bike, but typically it involves releasing a cable above the calipers or disc.
Loosen and Remove the Wheel
Use the wrench to loosen the bolts holding the wheel axle to the strut. You may have to try a few wrench sizes before finding one that fits. Pull the wheel completely off of the bike frame and set the rest of the bike aside to focus on the wheel.
Release Any Excess Air
If any excess air is still in the tube, use the screwdriver on the Schrader valve to release the air. Be sure to be applying constant pressure to squeeze as much air out of the tube as possible.
Remove the Tire From the Wheel
Once the air is drained from the tube, use the tire levers to separate the tire from the rim:
a. Stick the first lever (paddle end first) up under the tire and lift it up and away from the rim.
b. Use the hook end to attach it to one of the spokes on the wheel.
c. Stick the second tire lever in the gap you have created and drag it around the circumference of the wheel until one side of the tube is fully separated from the rim.
Pull Out the Flat Tube
Pull the deflated tube out from under the tire, taking special care not to damage the valve stem.
Check for Leaks
Use the bike pump to partially inflate the tube. Using both hands, run every inch of the tube through the large bowl of water, keeping an eye out for the stream of bubbles which are the telltale signs of a leak.
Mark and Patch the Leak
Pull the tube out of the bowl while keeping an eye on the location of the leak, and take the pen to mark its location. Take the patch and follow the instructions that came with them to properly patch the leak.
Reinsert the Tube
After ensuring that the patch is firmly set, place the repaired tube back onto the rim, taking special care to make sure that the valve stem is back in its hole on the inside of the rim.
Reattach the Tire
Use the tire levers to force the tire back over the rim, taking care not to damage the tube underneath.
Re-inflate and Reassemble
Use the bike pump to re-inflate the tire.
Attach the wheel back onto the frame while ensuring that the chain is in proper position (if you removed the rear tire).
Tighten down the bolts holding the axle to the strut.
Reattach the brake cables as needed.
Flip the bike back over.
Wash Your Hands and Enjoy!
They're gonna be dirty! Now go out there and enjoy your bike again!