Things You'll Need:
- Patch tube
- Tire patch
- Replacement chain links
- Bicycle tools
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Step 1
Fix a flat tire. You can replace the whole inner tube, patch the tube or use foam to seal the leak. Replacing the entire inner tube is the most reliable way to fix a tire. You just remove the tire and remove the damaged inner tube and put the new one back on. Replace the tire and inflate it.
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Step 2
Patch the tire. If you are choosing to patch it, you must first pump the tire up until it is nearly twice its normal size. This makes the hole more noticeable. Mark the hole and deflate the tire completely and make sure the outside of the tube is dry. Buff the tube around the hole. Be careful not to create new holes. Place glue over the buffed area and allow it to dry completely. Peel the backing off of the patch and place it firmly on the glued area.
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Step 3
Repair a chain. If a chain is stiff, it can usually be repaired with just oil or some careful lateral bending. In some cases it is required to replace links, which are replaced in pairs (an inner link and outer link). Some bike chains can be easily repaired because they use master links, which snap on and off easily. However some bike chains do not have a master link and a chain tool is needed to make repairs. A chain tool drives the rivet almost completely out of the link, making it easier to separate the chain. Do not remove the rivet entirely or you will not be able to reinstall it.
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Step 4
Install a front wheel. Be careful not to damage the front brake pads when installing a new front wheel. If the bike is equipped with a quick release mechanism, release it to open the brake up further. If the front brake has a straddle wire that can be easily removed, remove it and do not forget to reset the brake when finished.
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Step 5
Tighten the two axle nuts little by little to hold the new wheel firmly in place. There should be a washer on each side between the axle nut and the outside fork.. The wheel should be centered between the forks. If you hit the side of the wheel with your hand and it does not slip sideways, it is on tightly.
