How to replace a bicycle inner tube

Before you start

Work somewhere bright and stable. Clean dirt from the area first so that you can see what is moving and avoid carrying grit into threads or bearings. Photograph the original setup if several parts must be removed.

• Use tools that fit the fastener properly
• Keep small parts in removal order
• Do not force a seized or cross-threaded component
• Check the maker's manual for your exact part

Step by step

1. 1

   Shift to a suitable gear and remove the wheel using the bicycle maker's method.

2. 2

   Deflate fully and use tyre levers carefully to lift one tyre bead from the rim.

3. 3

   Remove the tube and inspect it, the tyre casing and rim tape to find the cause.

4. 4

   Add a small amount of air to the new, correctly sized tube and place it inside the tyre.

5. 5

   Seat the tyre bead without pinching the tube, inflate gradually and check the bead line is even.

6. 6

   Refit the wheel securely and restore the brake if it was released.

Checks before riding

Test the repair while the bicycle is stationary, then make a short, low-speed test ride away from traffic. Recheck anything that was loosened after the first ride.

• The tyre bead is even on both sides
• The wheel is secured correctly
• The brake works and does not rub
• The tyre is within its marked pressure range

When to use a bike shop

Book a mechanic if a component is cracked, badly corroded, repeatedly slips out of adjustment or needs specialist tools. Safety-critical work is not the place to improvise, and a quick professional repair is often cheaper than replacing a damaged part later.

Work methodically and stop when uncertain

Clean the area first, work in good light and use a tool that fits the fastener correctly. Photograph the starting position before removing several parts and keep washers, spacers and small fittings in order. Use the component manufacturer's document for torque values and model-specific procedures rather than guessing.

Never continue riding when steering, brakes, wheel retention or a structural component may be unsafe. Cracks, serious corrosion, repeated slipping or a repair that needs specialist tools are reasons to use a qualified bicycle mechanic.

Test before returning to traffic

Check the work while the bicycle is stationary, then make a short low-speed test ride away from traffic. Operate both brakes, shift through the useful gear range and listen for movement or rubbing. Recheck anything that was loosened after the first ride.

Routine checks prevent a small adjustment becoming a roadside failure. Tyre pressure and condition, brake operation, wheel security, lights and rack or mudguard fasteners deserve frequent attention on a bicycle used for commuting.