Suffering a flat tire is never fun, but don’t worry, fixing it is easier than you think. With a little practice and the right tools, you’ll be back on your Cannondale in no time.
First of all: the latest trend in cycling is to ride tubeless. With this system, you don't use a tube anymore, but the tire is filled with a thin glue-like fluid that directly fills small puncture holes. Especially riders who leave the tarmac and ride gravel or mtb, benefit from the advantages of riding tubeless: you can ride with lower pressures, have more grip, and if your tire gets punctured, the situation often solves itself in a matter of seconds.
If you do however ride with tubes, the following description is for you.
What you’ll need?
- Tire levers
- A new inner tube (or patch kit)
- A pump (floor or mini)
- Optional: gloves and a multi-tool
1. Remove the wheel*
If it’s your rear wheel, shift to the smallest cassette sprocket first, it makes it easier to take the wheel out. Then release the brake (if needed) and take the wheel out. When you are riding a bike with a Lefty fork, you don't even need to take the wheel out of the bike!
2. Take out the tube
Use tire levers to gently pry one side of the tire off the rim. Once it’s loose, pull out the inner tube. You can either repair it with a patch, if it's a small hole, or replace the tube alltogether. Finding a puncture hole in an innertube is easy when you submerge it in water.
3. Check the tire
Run your fingers carefully along the inside of the tire to find what caused the flat: glass, thorns, or sharp debris. Remove anything you find.
Take your time here, you really don’t want to go through all this again on your next ride. You can still ride with a small hole in the tire, but a bigger tear in the contact surface or the sidewalls should be replaced as soon as possible.
4. Install the new tube
Inflate the new tube just a little to give it shape. Place it inside the tire, then push the tire back onto the rim, be carefull not to pinch the tube between the tire and the rim. Pro tip: start opposite the valve and work your way around.
5. Inflate and check
Pump up the tire to the recommended pressure (you’ll find it printed on the side of the tire). Make sure everything looks good and spins freely.
6. Reinstall the wheel
Put the wheel back on, tighten the thru axle to the right Torque, and give it a quick spin to make sure it’s seated properly.
Flat tires happen to everyone, even the pros. With a little know-how, you’ll be fixing flats like a champ. And remember, your local Cannondale dealer is always there if you need a hand.
*Because of the mechanical skills, special tools, and expertise required, we strongly recommend that you do not attempt this yourself on a Cannondale equipped with a belt-drive system. This service should only be performed by a qualified professional bicycle mechanic.