Tire Repair R75/5

morning, just before I get new tires this spring I plan to take an ice pick and make a few holes ( one at a time ) and plug them. ( tubeless tires ) just for fun.

kantuckid said:

Any viewers that have used the "Stubby" tire levers? I'd like to hear more testimonials before I try them. Patching: If you've never patched a tube before-best to read up/watch youtube,etc., but also practice on an old one while at home. Maybe go watch a pro do it.

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I've used the Stubby tire levers and they are all I intend to use in the future. My motion pro short levers worked using milk jug rim protectors and I changed my rear tire four times using them, twice after putting the tire on in the wrong direction and twice for pinched tubes. After putting some baby powder on the front tube and using the Stubby levers, the front tire went on the first time without any issues - although a C-clamp helped keep the bead in the rim channel. These were Bridgestone Sptifires tires (110/90-18 rear, 100/90-19 front).

The ends of the levers have a profile on one side to make getting the bead off the rim easier with another on the other side for putting the tire on the rim to help prevent pinching the tube. Because they are plastic, I expect them to wear out after 20-30 tire changes. My main reason for trying the Stubby's was they require no rim protectors and won't damage the rims. Also, they are designed for spoke wheels using inner tubes and the levers should break before damaging the rim. But, with correct technique that should not happen.

Fortunately, I've never had to use the tire irons and patch kit I always keep in my airhead. I am told that the easiest way to break the bead is to use tire irons and some mounting lube (dish soap and water carried in a small squeeze bottle). Working your way around the tire, use the tire irons to open a gap between the tire and the bead and squirt some lube in. By the time you get around, the lube will enable you to break the bead with the tire irons. I do know this makes breaking the bead on tubeless tires for my other bikes much easier (I mount and balance tires at home).

That said, I don't ride my airhead that far from home and the patch kit I will probably use if I have to is my cell phone and either a credit card or my wife and my trailer...