I get tube punctures right by the valve stem.
05-08-24, 05:46 PM
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I get tube punctures right by the valve stem.
Sorry, make that "right by the valve stem."
I just replaced a tube on my wife's bike for the fourth or fifth time in the last few months. The punctures are always about 1/2" away from the navel stem on the same side as the valve stem. Being so close to the valve stem makes them impossible to repair. She has a plain vanilla bike with plain vanilla Schrader valves. Any thought why this keep happening? Thanks
I just replaced a tube on my wife's bike for the fourth or fifth time in the last few months. The punctures are always about 1/2" away from the navel stem on the same side as the valve stem. Being so close to the valve stem makes them impossible to repair. She has a plain vanilla bike with plain vanilla Schrader valves. Any thought why this keep happening? Thanks
Last edited by Quilbilly; 05-08-24 at 05:48 PM. Reason: typo
05-08-24, 05:48 PM
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Do a youtube search: Bicycle Valve Stem Pinch Flats
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05-08-24, 06:19 PM
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When the bead is seated before pumping up-
Physically push the stem in to make sure no part of the stem/reinforcement is caught under the tire bead.
Add a bit of air.
You'll want a small amount of air in the tube to get the right feel & repeat pushing the stem in.
Physically PULL the stem to seat before pumping the tire to full. Make sure it's lined up properly, not pointing off to the side.
Physically push the stem in to make sure no part of the stem/reinforcement is caught under the tire bead.
Add a bit of air.
You'll want a small amount of air in the tube to get the right feel & repeat pushing the stem in.
Physically PULL the stem to seat before pumping the tire to full. Make sure it's lined up properly, not pointing off to the side.
05-08-24, 07:03 PM
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Also check the inside of the rim for sharp burrs - kind of common around the drilled valve holes.
05-08-24, 07:45 PM
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First off Vanilla and plain are two very different things. Vanilla is actually a quite complex flavor and a very delicious one if I might add. There are a lot of different places that grow vanilla and they all have different flavor components that make them unique. Sorry but I don't like it when people malign vanilla because it is so awesome and super delicious.
Secondly, make sure everything is properly seated and nothing is able to abrade it by being un-smooth.
Thirdly make sure when pumping you have a pump with a hose and you are pulling the hose straight off without wiggling or jiggling it at all which can cause issues. I have seen enough people just cranking on the little stem trying to pull a pump off or put it on and there is just no need. Be gentle and it will work fine. Or if you have pump issues get a pump that is easier to use. Topeak JoeBlow series is one I use and have sold for years.
Secondly, make sure everything is properly seated and nothing is able to abrade it by being un-smooth.
Thirdly make sure when pumping you have a pump with a hose and you are pulling the hose straight off without wiggling or jiggling it at all which can cause issues. I have seen enough people just cranking on the little stem trying to pull a pump off or put it on and there is just no need. Be gentle and it will work fine. Or if you have pump issues get a pump that is easier to use. Topeak JoeBlow series is one I use and have sold for years.
05-09-24, 11:27 AM
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Make sure the stiff part of the tube where the valve is attached is seated properly INSIDE the tire. And don't ride with a partially inflated tube.
05-10-24, 07:17 AM
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Had a series of similar failures. I suspected poor quality tubes. Replaced the stash and the problem was mitigated.
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