2torial #0707:
Learn2 Fix a Bike Flat (continued)

Patch the inner tube

You can find various patch kits where bicycles are sold. They basically consist of small pieces of rubber that you can stick over the damaged inner tube with glue. Some kits provide rubber pieces already coated with adhesive for faster repairs, while others contain a separate tube of glue. Make sure the kit you buy contains a scraper or some sandpaper to initially roughen the inner tube's surface for better holding power. Refer to the directions on your patch kit; most will be a variation of the following:

• Clean and dry the damaged area. Use water from your bottle, or saliva if you have to.

• Lightly roughen the damaged area with sandpaper or a scraper to help the patch adhere properly.

• If the patch doesn't self-adhere, apply a thin layer of glue over the hole. Try not to spread it beyond the area to be patched. Let it dry until it becomes tacky to the touch.

• Place the patch onto the area, and hold it firmly in place so it bonds with the tube.

• After the patch has set, which takes about two minutes, inflate the tube to make sure the patch is holding properly. Don't overinflate it, though; an inner tube can blow up like a balloon without the surrounding tire to keep it contained.