Over the past decade, Jon Boyde has helped thousands of cycling enthusiasts find their groove in the saddle.
Is fixing a puncture as scary as we think?
"No. Most people would be pleasantly surprised how easy it is to repair or replace an inner tube."
Can you take us through it?
"The front wheel is easy. If it is a rim brake, disconnect this and undo the quick release or bolts as relevant. The wheel should drop out. From the opposite side of the valve, pop a tyre lever between the rim and tyre. Then work your way round so one half of the tyre is sitting over the rim, allowing you to pull out the old inner tube."
What next?
"Before you put the new inner tube in it helps to pump in a little air, not too much but enough to give it some shape. Then put the valve back through the hole in the rim and carefully tuck the inner tube back in underneath the tyre.
"A lot of people get put off because the inner tube, even if it is the correct size, can be bigger than the rim itself. Do not worry about this – as long as it is all tucked in neatly.
"You then need to go back round the rim and reattach the tyre. Gradually pump it up, stopping to work around the tyre with your fingers so it is seated correctly and the inner tube is not trying to work its way out again. Then reattach the wheel."
What essential tools do you need?
"Carry a spare inner tube and fast patches. To avoid punctures, regularly check your tyre pressure. A firmer tyre – without exceeding the recommended pressure – will help to avoid punctures by making it less easy for glass and flint to embed themselves. It will also roll faster.
"Another tip is to let a bit of pressure out the tyre and then go round it checking for bits of glass and sharp stones that may be stuck in. They may not cause a puncture immediately. Catching them in time can avoid a puncture."
What about putting a slipped chain back on?
"Working from front to back, lift it with your finger and pop it on the smallest chain ring at the front of the bike. Before you get on, lift the back wheel up and turn the pedals. That will find what gear it was on when the chain came off. If you get straight back on and attempt to pedal away, the chain can slip off again."
Next week: gears, and keeping your bike in tip-top condition.
