Got a puncture? Here’s what to do.

First, stop safely

If the bike suddenly feels vague, weaves or wobbles, roll off the throttle gently, don’t brake hard, and steer smoothly to a safe stop away from traffic. A deflating front tyre is particularly dangerous; don’t try to ride on to the next town.

Can you plug it?

A tubeless tyre with a small puncture in the centre of the tread can often be plugged with a roadside kit, then inflated with CO₂ cartridges or a small pump. Ride slowly and directly to a tyre fitter. A plug is a get-you-home repair; many fitters will then replace the tyre.

Don’t plug it if:

• The hole is in the sidewall or near the edge of the tread.
• It’s a tear or a cut rather than a small hole.
• The tyre has a tube in it (most spoked wheels and older bikes).
• You’ve ridden on it flat and the tyre or rim is damaged.

Foam sealants

Aerosol sealants can get you going, but they make a mess of the inside of the tyre and some fitters won’t repair a tyre afterwards. Tell the fitter you used one.

When to call us

If you can’t plug it, it’s a front tyre you don’t trust, or you just don’t want to risk it, call us. We’ll take the bike to a tyre fitter, a dealer or home. See breakdown recovery.