How to Fix a Flat Bicycle Tire [SPONSORED]

We've all been there.

You're biking on the Dutchess Rail Trail and you roll over a thorny twig. Or you're flying along a rocky descent in the Gunks and you peel out. Whether it's a slow hiss or a sudden pop, you know you're in for a deflated piece of rubber.

A flat tire is bound to happen to every bicycle rider. Christian Favata of Favata's TRT Bicycles gave us some quick tips to get your new tube inflated and your bike back on the road or back off-roading.

 
1. Keep Your Supplies Handy
 

You'll need two tire levers to pry open the tire, a new tube to replace your punctured one and a pump to inflate that bad boy.

 
2. Open Up the Tire
 

Find the valve stem on the tire and put that on the bottom. Use one of the tire levers to open up one side of the bead on the tire and lock it onto the spoke. Use the second tire lever and work it from the opening on the bead all around the tire.

 
3. Make Sure Nothing's Stuck Inside the Tire
 

After you remove the deflated tube, you'll want to check inside the tire to make sure nothing's stuck in there. A new tube won't do you much good if a sharp rock or a thorn is hiding somewhere in the tire. Run your fingers along the inside length of the tire and feel for any objects.

 
4. Inflate the Tube
 

Open up the valve on the tube and pump a little bit of air inside so that it takes shape. Find the valve hole on the wheel and put the tube's valve in first through the bead of the tire you opened with the levers.

If you're inexperienced changing a tire, lay the wheel on the ground. Work the tube into the tire all the way around until you reach the valve. Then, work the bead of the tire back into the rim. Use the palms of your hands to help roll the bead back on.

Now you can pump air back into the tire.

 
Favata's TRT Bicycles is located at 1066 Route 32, Rosendale, N.Y. Favata's TRT Bicycles: family owned, rider focused.