How to patch a bicycle inner tube

Difficulty: Medium30–90 min3 tools💬 0

✓ Checked against manufacturer instructions and current safety standards · updated 8.7.2026.

What you'll need

Tools

  • Allen key setFor a safe inspection and basic maintenance.
  • Pump with pressure gaugeFor a safe inspection and basic maintenance.
  • Clean cloths and brushFor a safe inspection and basic maintenance.
Estimated cost0–40 KM for basic check
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1 Prepare for safe work

Place the bicycle stably, clean the work area, and photograph the position of washers and cables before removal. For an electric bicycle, turn off the system and remove the battery.

⚠ Warning: Do not use a metal screwdriver as a tire lever; it can damage the rim, tire, and inner tube.

2 Remove the wheel and one side of the tire

Release the brake if necessary, remove the wheel, and use plastic tire levers to pull one edge of the outer tire out without pinching the inner tube.

3 Find the hole and the cause

Slightly inflate the inner tube and submerge it section by section in water or listen for hissing. Carefully run your fingers along the inside of the outer tire to check for a thorn or glass.

4 Glue the patch and put the tire back

Dry, roughen, and apply glue according to the patch kit instructions. Once it becomes matte, press the patch firmly, slightly inflate the inner tube, and put it back without twisting.

? Tip: Photograph the initial state and change only one thing at a time. This will let you know which check really affected the problem.

5 Assemble, test, and set limits

Spin the wheel and drivetrain by hand, then do a slow test ride in a traffic-free area. Brakes, wheels, and steering must function completely predictably before normal riding.