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Cómo arreglar un pinchazo en la bici

Posted on: January 16th 2024

Every cyclist, from professional to amateur, faces the challenge of a puncture at some point. A flat tire not only stops your trip, it also tests your ability to troubleshoot on the fly. At Ciclos Corredor, we know that a puncture can happen anywhere and at any time, which is why we want to provide you with a complete guide so you can fix a puncture efficiently and keep rolling.

What do I need to fix a puncture on my bike?

Before encountering a flat tire, it is crucial to be prepared. This means carrying a puncture repair kit with you which should include the following:

· Tire levers 

• Air pump or CO2 cartridge


• Patch or a spare inner tube


• Multitool (if your wheels have nuts instead of quick releases)


• A piece of cloth or sandpaper


How to fix a puncture step by step

• Remove the Wheel: First, if you have locking brakes, be sure to open them. If it is the rear wheel, shift to the lowest gear to make removal easier. Use the quick release lever or wrenches to remove the wheel from the bike.

• Remove Tire: Using the tire levers, carefully remove one side of the tire from the rim. Work around the wheel until you can remove the inner tube.

• Locate the Hole: Inflate the inner tube to find the origin of the puncture. It may be helpful to submerge it in water and look for bubbles if the hole is not visible.

Prepare the Area: Once the hole is located, dry and clean the area. If you are using a patch, sand lightly around the puncture to help the adhesive set better.

• Patch or Replace: If you choose to patch, apply the adhesive and wait a few minutes before applying the patch. Press firmly. If you choose to replace the tube, make sure the new one has no kinks when putting it on the rim.

• Check the Rim: Before putting the tube and tire back on, check the rim and the inside of the tire for sharp objects that may have caused the puncture.

• Attach the Tire and Tube: Start at the valve and insert the tube back into the tire, making sure it is positioned correctly.

• Refit the Wheel: Once the tire and tube are in place, lightly inflate the tube to shape it and make sure the tire is seated firmly on the rim. Then, inflate to the recommended pressure.

• Final Test: Before heading out again, perform a quick test to make sure the tire is properly inflated and there are no leaks.

 Tips and Best Practices

• Always carry a puncture repair kit with you.

• Practice at home to be prepared when a puncture occurs on the road.

• Consider using sealant fluid on your tubes or converting to a tubeless system to reduce the frequency of punctures.

• Learn to identify the different types of punctures: pinch, sharp object, or wear, as each may require a slightly different repair technique.

Fixing a puncture is an essential skill that every cyclist should master. With practice and knowledge, what may at first seem like a frustrating setback, becomes a simple pause in your journey.

Post-Repair Care

Once you've fixed the puncture and are back on the road, there are some aftercare you should keep in mind. Monitor the pressure of the repaired tire for the first few miles to make sure the new patch or tube is working properly. It is advisable to perform a more detailed inspection of the tire and rim once you return home, to prevent future punctures.

 Puncture Prevention

In addition to knowing how to fix a puncture, it is equally important to know how to prevent them. Keeping your tires at the proper pressure, avoiding roads with debris, and using tires with a good layer of puncture protection are some of the measures you can take.

The Choice of Materials

 

The choice of materials for your wheels and tires can have a big impact on the frequency of punctures. Tubeless tires, for example, can offer greater puncture resistance due to their ability to seal small punctures instantly with sealant fluid. Additionally, thicker tires with greater puncture protection can be a good investment for cyclists who frequently ride on difficult terrain.

The Psychological Aspect

 

Fixing a puncture on the trail can be stressful, especially if you're in a race or trying to maintain a good pace. It is important to stay calm and remember that repair is a natural part of cycling. Peace of mind and confidence in your ability to solve the problem will help you get back on the road faster and in better spirits.

 

Conclusion

At Ciclos Corredor, we understand that a puncture can be an interruption to your training or ride, but it is also an opportunity to improve your mechanical skills and your self-sufficiency as a cyclist. In the end, overcoming these small challenges is part of what makes cycling such an enriching and satisfying activity.

Don't let the fear of a flat tire stop you. With the right preparation and the right technique, you will be ready to face and repair any puncture that comes your way, and at Ciclos Corredor we are here to help you every step of the process.