Punctures are a part of cycling. There’s no way you can escape one and when it happens, you wish it was not today.
Follow these simple steps below and prevent tyre punctures:-
Rim strip and tyre liners:
Rim strips are known to protect the tube from the holes in the rim and the spoke ends. They are usually made from rubber or a cloth tape that sits on the rim bed covering the spoke holes.
On the other hand, tyre liners also help to protect your inner tube but from the outside. If any object attempts to penetrate from the outside, a tyre liner is essential. This is one of the cheap ways you can prevent tyre punctures.
Ensure to give importance to the liners while installing. Pay attention to the overlap of the liners, failing to install it the right way can cause more punctures than preventing.
Install good tyres:
On Indian roads, a pair of good tyres can go a long way when it comes to preventing a puncture. Tyres like the Gatorskin have a good reputation to prevent tyre punctures. They are well suited for training, commuting, and endurance.
Talcum powder:
Ever happened to remove the tyre from the rim just to find your inner tube coated with a white powder? Don’t be surprised, that’s talcum powder!
Coating the inner tube with talcum powder before installing prevents to keep the tyre and tube from sticking to each other. It also helps in reducing friction that can possibly wear a hole in the tube.
Go tubeless:
While this can be an expensive affair, it can surely be a very effective way to prevent punctures. With no tubes, there is no chance you will get pinch flat. Installing tubeless tyres will allow for better shock absorption and prevent tyre punctures.
Watch before you roll:
No cyclist rides his bike without looking straight ahead or around. It comes quite naturally while cycling. However, there are times when we happen to ride on broken glass, grit or other sharp objects. A good way to avoid this is to watch out and prevent riding over the foreign object. If you happen to ride over the patch, make it a point to stop by the side of the road and examine your tires.
If you see any foreign object penetrating your tyre, try pulling it out with your fingernail. An Allen key can be very useful. Here’s a guide to a must-have essential cycling gear.
While these methods are not foolproof when it comes to preventing a tyre puncture, make it a point to carry a saddle bag with the right essentials. It can do more good than harm.
