How to Avoid Cycling Flats

Flat tires are one of the most annoying problems a cyclist can have, especially when they happen on the way to work or on a long ride. Every serious rider is bound to get a flat at some point, but you can take several preventative steps to improve your flat tire statistics. Keeping the right amount of air in your tires is crucial, and so is having the right type of tires for the terrain you ride on. If you take good care of your bike and replace your tires regularly, you'll have fewer flats to change.

Things You'll Need

  • Pressure gauge
  • Bicycle pump
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Instructions

    • 1

      Maintain your tire pressure at the recommended level. Usually this is written on the side of the tire. Tire pressure decreases over time, so to keep your pressure levels up, check your tires every week using a pressure gauge. The cycling site DownTheRoad.org recommends investing in a quality floor pump to make pressure adjustments quick and easy.

    • 2

      Purchase the correct tires for the terrain you ride on. Thin road bike tires will not hold up well if you ride them on dirt or gravel often. If you ride on dirt, you may want to switch to a larger tire with a well-defined tread. Always avoid sharp objects -- even if they don't puncture your tire, they can make it more susceptible to flats.

    • 3

      Replace your tires regularly, once a year if you are a moderate to heavy rider. Even if you haven't gotten a flat on your tire, it will still wear out over time, making it more prone to punctures.

    • 4

      Invest in puncture-resistant tires. These tires are lined with Kevlar to help protect the tube. According to the biking site Commute by Bike, these tires will protect your tubes against most ordinary hazards, such as automotive glass in the road.

    • 5

      Avoid riding close to the curb. According to bicycle expert Sheldon Brown, debris is likely to accumulate at the edges of the street, making a flat more likely if you hug the curb.