Bicycle Inner Tube Patches File

Before you start, you need to know which tool you’re using.

Here is everything you need to know about bicycle inner tube patches. The Two Types of Patches Bicycle Inner Tube Patches

This is the most important step. Use the small square of sandpaper in your kit to roughen the area around the hole. This removes the slippery molding agents from the factory and gives the cement a textured surface to grip. Before you start, you need to know which tool you’re using

These kits come with a small tube of "rubber cement." This isn't actually glue; it’s a chemical agent that melts the patch and the tube together into a single, seamless piece of rubber. Once cured, the patch is often stronger than the rest of the tube. How to Patch a Tube in 5 Steps Use the small square of sandpaper in your

Pump some air into the tube. Listen for a hiss or feel for airflow. If you’re at home, submerge the tube in water; a stream of bubbles will pinpoint even the tiniest "slow leak."

Before putting the tube back in, run your fingers carefully along the inside of your tire. If the thorn, glass, or wire that caused the flat is still stuck in the tire, it will pop your newly patched tube instantly. When to Toss the Tube

Peel the foil backing off the patch (try not to touch the sticky side) and press it firmly over the hole. Use your thumb to apply heavy pressure from the center outward to work out any air bubbles.