Bike is kaput

[kengr]

I used the electric pump to pump it up over 50 psi (tires are supposed to be inflated to 45-60 psi).

In 15 minutes it was firm but too low to read on my pressure gauge. In 60 it was soft...

Damn. I need a new tube, maybe a new tire.

Comments

[acelightning.livejournal.com]

[fayanora.livejournal.com]

Ho boy... :-S

[kengr]

It's a 21 speed. I don't know how to even get the rear wheel off without risking messing up the deraileur.

[acelightning.livejournal.com]

[stickmaker.livejournal.com]

You might just need to clean the rims of the wheel and tire to help get a good seal. You could to that without removing the wheel.

Slow leaks can be very aggravating. Best way to find them is with a water test. You could set up a tub, immerse the bottom third of the freshly-inflated tire and slowly rotate until you see bubbles. That would let you know if it's an actual hole, rather than the tire not being properly sealed. Since the tire and tube haven't been removed, if there is a puncture, it should be through both in the same place.

[kengr]

I used to do it too. But I don't really have tools I'd trust for getting the tire off the rim. And anything that involves kneeling is a majpr hassle any more. Partly pain, partly needing to make sure I have something to help me get up (or room to sit/lie down then roll into a position I *can* get up from)

So it's sort of out of the "do it yourself" range anymore.

[kengr]

Not a "slow" leak. 15 min from 55 psi to too low to measure on my pocket gauge.

[acelightning.livejournal.com]