Prevent flats by storing your spares safely. – By Kelsey Molseed

That spare tube in your saddlebag could be a lifesaver on a long ride, but wouldn’t it be a bummer if you changed a flat, only to discover that the tube was no longer good?

Make sure your bike’s inner tubes are ready when you need them by avoiding these common mistakes:

Storing Tubes In A Saddlebag For Too Long
Maybe you’ve been fortunate enough to evade flat tyres for a while. If that’s the case, the spares in your saddlebag might need to be replaced. Storing tubes inside a saddlebag for long periods of time, can lead to weakness or cracks where the tubes are folded. The tubes can also be damaged by jostling against other items in the bag. Unpack your tubes occasionally to prevent them from cracking or splitting. If in doubt, inflate them to look for leaks.

Using Rubber Bands To Keep Tubes Bundled
Over time, rubber bands could react with the rubber of the tube and cause a hole to form. The rubber band could even fuse to the tube and create a tear when you try to separate them.

Storing Tubes Near A Heat Source
Heat degrades the rubber, making it brittle and less elastic. If you have tubes you’re not planning to use for a while, keep them away from direct sunlight, and especially from a heater.

Click here to see how to to change a flat tyre fast.

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