How to Repair Bell Bicycle Tires

Repairing a Bell bike tire is easy. They are exactly like any other bike tire, what cyclists refer to as "clinchers." When bike tires get a puncture, tear or cut, they are usually replaced. But if you are out on the open highway or miles out on a wilderness trail, you must repair the tire. You can do this by booting it. Booting is a procedure that utilizes anything the rider can find to insert between the tube and the damaged tire to keep the tube inside the tire. Most experienced cyclists carry duct tape, small pieces of rubber, vinyl or even dollar bills for an emergency tire boot.

Things You'll Need

  • Dollar bill
  • 2 tire removal levers
  • New tube
  • Floor pump
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Instructions

    • 1

      Turn the bike upside down. Balance it on its handlebars and seat. Flip the quick-release lever on the center of the wheel axle. Remove the wheel from the bike.

    • 2

      Insert one of the tire levers between the tire and the wheel. Push hard on the tire lever until it separates the tire from the wheel approximately 2 inches. Insert the other tire lever in beside the first one. Continue sliding either lever around the tire, separating the tire from the rim until one side of the tire is free from the rim. Don't take the tire off of the rim.

    • 3

      Reach into the tire. Grab the tube and pull it out of the damaged tire.

    • 4

      Pump a small amount of air into the new tube using the floor pump. Put just enough air in to give the tube its round form. Stuff the new tube into the tire. Locate the damaged area on the tire.

    • 5

      Fold the dollar bill three times lengthwise. Insert the folded dollar bill into the tire, slipping it between the damaged tire and the tube.

    • 6

      Hold the wheel with one hand on both sides of the damaged area. Begin forcing the tire back onto the rim with both of your thumbs, taking care that the dollar bill does not slip off of the damaged area. Work your way around the tire until the tire is completely seated back on the rim.

    • 7

      Blow the tire up to its recommended pressure using the floor pump. The recommended pressure is marked on the side of the tire.

    • 8

      Place the tire back on the bike and close the quick-release lever. Flip the bike onto its wheels. The bike is ready to ride.