How can I prevent flat tires?
Updated
by
Lectric eBikes
5 tips and tricks to avoid flat tires on your eBike
An ounce of prevention is worth 100 psi of cure when it comes to your tires and their lifespan. Unfortunately, flats are part of riding and bound to happen to every cyclist at some point—but there are precautions you can take to reduce their likelihood.
Here are 5 tips that will help keep your tires in the bead and your bike on the road:
- Keep your tires inflated within the recommended pressure range listed on the tire sidewall. This will also reduce the tire's surface contact on the road, effectively increasing the efficiency of your motor and even increasing your range. Correct inflation will specifically prevent what’s known as a “pinch flat.” A pinch flat occurs when the tire compresses and pinches the tube against the wheel rim. It’s often caused by an under-inflated tire or a hard impact against an obstacle, like a curb, or pothole. Not to mention if your tires are underinflated it can cause permanent damage to the electronic systems on your eBike.
- If you think you’ve ridden over a patch of glass, grit, or other sharp objects that litter the road, stop and inspect your tires for foreign objects. This might be an obvious tip, but many don’t take the time to do it. If you see anything embedded in the tire, gently pry it out. If you have a handkerchief, bandana, or glove, use it to protect your hand while you grip the tire and gently spin the wheel. See if anything gets caught on the cloth and remove it accordingly.
- Install slime into your tube to fill leaks or punctures. It prevents flats from thorns, glass, goat heads, nails, and other debris for up to two years!
- The red label line of Slime products is designed specifically to stop flats in tires with tubes. This is the Slime Product line that we recommend.
- Upcycle an old punctured tube. Take your punctured tube and cut out the valve stem, cut the tube along the rim side and wrapped your new tube. Doubling the thickness of your tube. This "rim strip" will perfectly mold to the tube shape and hopefully prevent future punctures. It is a great way to recycle what would otherwise go in the trash.
- Store your bike where it isn't going to be exposed to the elements. This will increase the lifespan of your tires as extreme temperatures degrade rubber, making them brittle and less elastic. Also, if you have tubes you’re not planning to use for a while, keep them away from direct sunlight and heat.
If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact our support team at contact@lectricebikes.com or (602) 715-0907.
