Practical Approach

The least expensive and probably most effective way to reduce or prevent flat tires -- along with other potential costly repairs -- is to adopt regular practices that you use before, during and after a ride. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Check air pressure. You can do this visually, with a hand squeeze/press test, and/or with an air pressure gauge. It is probably best to start out with the gauge. Match the PSI reading to the range shown on the wall of the tire. Adjust the pressure as needed to improve the riding quality and prolong the life of the tube.
2. Inspect your tires and wheels. Occasionally, inspect your wheels and tires for wear and any other problems. Before each ride, scan your wheels and tires for any obvious problems.
3. Ride defensively. You have heard about driving defensively; ride your bike that way, too. Not only look out for cars, low hanging limbs and trip wires (just kidding). Also look out for glass or other sharp objects that threaten tires, and safely steer around them.

Special equipment

Perhaps the easiest way to reduce the likelihood of a flat tire is to mitigate the chances of a puncture -- the most common sort of flat tire bicyclists suffer. Special accessories can reduce the effect of sharp items that cause punctures. Some options include:

• Tire liners to shield the tube within. Most are made of Kevlar, the light but strong substance used protective vests worn by law enforcement officers.


• Puncture-resistent tubes, which are thicker than standard tubes.


• Self-healing tubes, which are thicker than normal and come with a special fluid that fills holes. It is also possible to purchase the self-healing fluids to fill your existing tubes.