Flat fix on Rhynolite

[andyc]

After having replaced one too many spokes on my old stock rear wheel (Bike is a Norco Mountaineer SL) I finally decided to at least upgrade my rear wheel to a Sun rims Rhynolite XL. Now comes the problem - I got a flat and was unable to remove my dual purpose tire from the rim to repair the tube. The dealer informs me that it is pretty much a 2 man job with the wheel securely held! This does not bode well for roadside repairs. My only options seem to be a thicker puncture resistant tube (no guarantee there) or to use sealant like "Slime" to at least get me home. Any one know know a better way? I ride about 1,000 miles per season so flats are a fairly regular occurence for me and I'd prefer to fix them myself especially if it avoids a 10 mile walk home!

[FredHiltz]

Yikes! Thank you for the warning. Please let us know if you find a solution. Some tires have larger diameter than others. Perhaps someone who knows tires can suggest a decent touring tire that will be easier to mount.

Fred

[VirgilH.]

Hello:
Why not try Mr. Tuffy, that goes between the tire and the tube for me they have worked great.

Virgil H. Aviles

Kind Regards,

Virgil H. Aviles

[andyc]

Thanks for the hint. I'll give it a try. A dealer also suggested using a metal tire iron (how ironic - oh god what horrible puns!) - but I worry about what that might do to my wheel. The liner sounds like a better idea.

[wanderingwheel]

What kind of rimstrip are you using?  For some rim/tire combinations, switching from a thick fabric rimstrip, such as Velox, to a thin plastic rimstrip, such as Ritchey or Rox, can go a long way toward solving the problem.

For metal tire levers, Soma makes a very nice set with a metal core and plastic exterior.

Sean

[FredHiltz]

Andc wrote: A dealer also suggested using a metal tire iron (how ironic - oh god what horrible puns!) - but I worry about what that might do to my wheel.

I have used tire "irons" made of aluminum since 1973 and never nicked a rim. Twice they have saved cyclists met sitting beside the road with broken plastic "irons." If new ones have any burrs from manufacturing, a little filing or sandpapering might be in order.

Fred