How to Protect Bicycle Tubes With Tape

If you attempt to put a tire and butt on a rim that has the spoke ends protruding, chances are the future of the tube isn't great. Special tube protectors are available at bike shops, but they are rather expensive, and what are you to do when they aren't open and you need protection? A quick trip to the hardware store will put everything in order again.

Things You'll Need

• Electrical tape

Instructions

1. 

   Remove the tire and tube from the bicycle rim, leaving only the bare rim, as shown in the photo. Each round dot is the end of a spoke and is very damaging to an unprotected inner tube. This is a good time to clean this part of the rim, as well, to ensure that there is no debris.

2. 

   Wrap the inner rip at least twice with electrical tape. This tape is stretchy and will resist punctures from the spoke ends wonderfully. I recommend a quality brand tape to ensure the longest life and thickest protection.

3. 

   Poke a hole for the valve stem with a Phillips screwdriver or other sharp device. Then reinstall the tire and new tube onto the protected rim.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure you cover every spoke end, because even one can puncture the tube!