Fixing a Flat Tire

Fixing a flat tire is like doing your dishes: everyone has their own way of doing it; however, most would agree you should start by deflating the tire.

After the tire is deflated, insert a tire lever under the tire in attempt to pry the tire off the rim. A good tire lever is worth investing in because cheap levers will bend or snap in this process; besides, in Bakersfield this is the tool you will most likely use the most.

Pry the lever out and try and work your way around the rim to push the tire's bead outside of the rim.

If it is really hard to push your way around the entire wheel, you can insert a second tire lever to make it easier.

After you have removed the bead from one side, go to the other side and pry that off as well.

Now that your tire has been removed from the rim you need to check and see if the source of the flat is still residing in the tire. Use your hands or a rag and rub lightly along the interior of the tire to check for a thorn or piece of glass (*if you use your hands be very careful in case you encounter glass).

Pump up your new tube with enough air so that it takes shape and insert it into the tire. Place one side of the tire onto the rim (you may need to use the tire lever hurling one side of the bead onto the rim).

Now that the tire is on the wheel you should work your hands around the tire to ensure that it is properly beaded. The bottom of the tire is equipped with a steal, or kevlar, bead, and this needs to sit properly on the rim.

Inflate the tire a little bit more and roll it around on the ground to ensure that the tire is seated properly in the wheel and inflate it to the recommended pressure on the sidewall of the tire.