This article describes the basic steps to replace a broken bicycle wheel tube.
Steps
Step 1. Prepare a travel bag that contains all the tools and equipment needed to replace the broken inner tube of the bicycle wheel
To do this, you need to know several factors:
- The diameter of the air chamber needed. This data is often printed on the shoulder of the tread or on the inner tube itself; if you can't find it, consult the user's manual or the manufacturer's web page.
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The type of valve present on the old tube. The Schrader and Presta models are the most used on bikes. The Schrader is typically found on cheaper or older models, plus it is thicker and resembles that of car tires, while the Presta is thinner and typically fitted to high-end bikes. The best way to know which type is used on your bike is to consult the manufacturer's manual or website; if you cannot find this information, ask the bicycle shop assistant for advice.
This factor is essential in choosing the pump to take with you, because if its connection and the valve do not match, you will not be able to inflate the bladder
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The size of the wrench with which to loosen the four nuts that secure the wheel hubs to the frame. The dimensions of the small parts are often indicated in the manual or on the manufacturer's website; if you can't get them, try different types of wrenches until you find the right one for the bolt or nut head.
- It is recommended that you bring a set of wrenches to make sure you have the right tools for the job.
- Check if the small parts used are calibrated according to the units of measurement of the metric system or the imperial Anglo-Saxon system and choose the tools accordingly.
- If the bike is equipped with a quick release mechanism, the wrench is not required.
Replace a Blown Bike Tire Inner Tube Step 2 Step 2. Remove the wheel with the damaged tube using the wrench or quick release levers
You should proceed after turning the vehicle upside down so that it rests on the seat and handlebars.
Replace a Blown Bike Tire Inner Tube Step 3 Step 3. Remove the tire from the rim when you have removed the wheel from the frame
For this operation you should use the appropriate levers; insert their thinner end between the rim and the shoulder of the tread, then pry to extract the edge of the tire.
Warning: remember to remove the dust cap from the valve and take great care when removing the valve from the rim
Replace a Blown Bike Tire Inner Tube Step 4 Step 4. Once the tire is removed, you should have no difficulty getting the tube out
Replace a Blown Bike Tire Inner Tube Step 5 Step 5. Partially inflate the replacement just enough to give it a circular shape
By doing so, you simplify its insertion into the tire.
Replace a Blown Bike Tire Inner Tube Step 6 Step 6. Push the tire back into the rim, taking care to insert the valve into the hole on the rim
It could be a bit difficult if you don't have a lot of practice, so help yourself with the levers.
