Misplaced tyre lever - alternatives?
I misplaced my tire lever and it's very hard to change the tube of my mountain bike without a tire lever. I'm looking for alternatives if a tire lever is not available.
What I've found so far are:
- Carve your own tire lever out of wood. (Did not try this, have no wood available)
- Use the handle of a spoon. (Didn't work, spoon bent and scratched rim tape)
- Carve your own out of the plastic handle of a knife. (Worked, but kinda ruined handle of knife and could be dangerous)
Are there any other alternatives in case this would occur again or if I encounter a similar situation on the road?
maintenance wheels tire-lever bodges
edited Mar 5 at 20:43
Argenti Apparatus
36k23891
asked Mar 5 at 13:09
CuriousIndeedCuriousIndeed
1636
|
show 7 more comments
I misplaced my tire lever and it's very hard to change the tube of my mountain bike without a tire lever. I'm looking for alternatives if a tire lever is not available.
What I've found so far are:
- Carve your own tire lever out of wood. (Did not try this, have no wood available)
- Use the handle of a spoon. (Didn't work, spoon bent and scratched rim tape)
- Carve your own out of the plastic handle of a knife. (Worked, but kinda ruined handle of knife and could be dangerous)
Are there any other alternatives in case this would occur again or if I encounter a similar situation on the road?
maintenance wheels tire-lever bodges
edited Mar 5 at 20:43
Argenti Apparatus
36k23891
asked Mar 5 at 13:09
CuriousIndeedCuriousIndeed
1636
2
How is it possible to have only one tire lever??? Of course, if desperate you can use a screwdriver, but it's better to use something with rounded edges. Plastic is better than metal, but the old-fashioned metal tire levers work.
– Daniel R Hicks
Mar 5 at 18:58
2
This question is crying out for a [bodge] tag. (not an insult)
– Criggie♦
Mar 5 at 19:10
2
There are two questions mixed together here 1) What can I use for a tire lever If I'm at home 2) What can I use for a tire lever when out on a ride. 'A spoon handle' is a reasonable answer to (1) but not (2) (unless you happen to get a puncture in a cafe).
– Argenti Apparatus
Mar 5 at 19:42
1
I've always just used two flat-head screw drivers. Yes, you must be careful with those to avoid damaging rim, tube, or tire, but I've never had any serious damage. The rims do tend to get a small scratch or two though, so don't use this method on an expensive rim that you want to keep shiny to show off... Screwdrivers that have all their edges a tiny bit rounded work best. (I don't even own tire levers, and I don't feel any urge to buy them.)
– cmaster
Mar 5 at 20:23
2
A set of 3 costs $4.00 on Amazon. amazon.com/Diamondback-Bicycle-Tire-Lever-Black/dp/B00MJYQL6C/…
– Gary E
Mar 5 at 21:48
|
show 7 more comments
I misplaced my tire lever and it's very hard to change the tube of my mountain bike without a tire lever. I'm looking for alternatives if a tire lever is not available.
What I've found so far are:
- Carve your own tire lever out of wood. (Did not try this, have no wood available)
- Use the handle of a spoon. (Didn't work, spoon bent and scratched rim tape)
- Carve your own out of the plastic handle of a knife. (Worked, but kinda ruined handle of knife and could be dangerous)
Are there any other alternatives in case this would occur again or if I encounter a similar situation on the road?
maintenance wheels tire-lever bodges
edited Mar 5 at 20:43
Argenti Apparatus
36k23891
asked Mar 5 at 13:09
CuriousIndeedCuriousIndeed
1636
I misplaced my tire lever and it's very hard to change the tube of my mountain bike without a tire lever. I'm looking for alternatives if a tire lever is not available.
What I've found so far are:
- Carve your own tire lever out of wood. (Did not try this, have no wood available)
- Use the handle of a spoon. (Didn't work, spoon bent and scratched rim tape)
- Carve your own out of the plastic handle of a knife. (Worked, but kinda ruined handle of knife and could be dangerous)
Are there any other alternatives in case this would occur again or if I encounter a similar situation on the road?
maintenance wheels tire-lever bodges
maintenance wheels tire-lever bodges
edited Mar 5 at 20:43
Argenti Apparatus
36k23891
asked Mar 5 at 13:09
CuriousIndeedCuriousIndeed
1636
edited Mar 5 at 20:43
Argenti Apparatus
36k23891
asked Mar 5 at 13:09
CuriousIndeedCuriousIndeed
1636
edited Mar 5 at 20:43
Argenti Apparatus
36k23891
edited Mar 5 at 20:43
Argenti Apparatus
36k23891
edited Mar 5 at 20:43
Argenti Apparatus
36k23891
36k23891
asked Mar 5 at 13:09
CuriousIndeedCuriousIndeed
1636
asked Mar 5 at 13:09
CuriousIndeedCuriousIndeed
1636
asked Mar 5 at 13:09
CuriousIndeedCuriousIndeed
1636
1636
2
How is it possible to have only one tire lever??? Of course, if desperate you can use a screwdriver, but it's better to use something with rounded edges. Plastic is better than metal, but the old-fashioned metal tire levers work.
– Daniel R Hicks
Mar 5 at 18:58
2
This question is crying out for a [bodge] tag. (not an insult)
– Criggie♦
Mar 5 at 19:10
2
There are two questions mixed together here 1) What can I use for a tire lever If I'm at home 2) What can I use for a tire lever when out on a ride. 'A spoon handle' is a reasonable answer to (1) but not (2) (unless you happen to get a puncture in a cafe).
– Argenti Apparatus
Mar 5 at 19:42
1
I've always just used two flat-head screw drivers. Yes, you must be careful with those to avoid damaging rim, tube, or tire, but I've never had any serious damage. The rims do tend to get a small scratch or two though, so don't use this method on an expensive rim that you want to keep shiny to show off... Screwdrivers that have all their edges a tiny bit rounded work best. (I don't even own tire levers, and I don't feel any urge to buy them.)
– cmaster
Mar 5 at 20:23
2
A set of 3 costs $4.00 on Amazon. amazon.com/Diamondback-Bicycle-Tire-Lever-Black/dp/B00MJYQL6C/…
– Gary E
Mar 5 at 21:48
|
show 7 more comments
2
How is it possible to have only one tire lever??? Of course, if desperate you can use a screwdriver, but it's better to use something with rounded edges. Plastic is better than metal, but the old-fashioned metal tire levers work.
– Daniel R Hicks
Mar 5 at 18:58
2
This question is crying out for a [bodge] tag. (not an insult)
– Criggie♦
Mar 5 at 19:10
2
There are two questions mixed together here 1) What can I use for a tire lever If I'm at home 2) What can I use for a tire lever when out on a ride. 'A spoon handle' is a reasonable answer to (1) but not (2) (unless you happen to get a puncture in a cafe).
– Argenti Apparatus
Mar 5 at 19:42
1
I've always just used two flat-head screw drivers. Yes, you must be careful with those to avoid damaging rim, tube, or tire, but I've never had any serious damage. The rims do tend to get a small scratch or two though, so don't use this method on an expensive rim that you want to keep shiny to show off... Screwdrivers that have all their edges a tiny bit rounded work best. (I don't even own tire levers, and I don't feel any urge to buy them.)
– cmaster
Mar 5 at 20:23
2
A set of 3 costs $4.00 on Amazon. amazon.com/Diamondback-Bicycle-Tire-Lever-Black/dp/B00MJYQL6C/…
– Gary E
Mar 5 at 21:48
2
2
How is it possible to have only one tire lever??? Of course, if desperate you can use a screwdriver, but it's better to use something with rounded edges. Plastic is better than metal, but the old-fashioned metal tire levers work.
– Daniel R Hicks
Mar 5 at 18:58
How is it possible to have only one tire lever??? Of course, if desperate you can use a screwdriver, but it's better to use something with rounded edges. Plastic is better than metal, but the old-fashioned metal tire levers work.
– Daniel R Hicks
Mar 5 at 18:58
2
2
This question is crying out for a [bodge] tag. (not an insult)
– Criggie♦
Mar 5 at 19:10
This question is crying out for a [bodge] tag. (not an insult)
– Criggie♦
Mar 5 at 19:10
2
2
There are two questions mixed together here 1) What can I use for a tire lever If I'm at home 2) What can I use for a tire lever when out on a ride. 'A spoon handle' is a reasonable answer to (1) but not (2) (unless you happen to get a puncture in a cafe).
– Argenti Apparatus
Mar 5 at 19:42
There are two questions mixed together here 1) What can I use for a tire lever If I'm at home 2) What can I use for a tire lever when out on a ride. 'A spoon handle' is a reasonable answer to (1) but not (2) (unless you happen to get a puncture in a cafe).
– Argenti Apparatus
Mar 5 at 19:42
1
1
I've always just used two flat-head screw drivers. Yes, you must be careful with those to avoid damaging rim, tube, or tire, but I've never had any serious damage. The rims do tend to get a small scratch or two though, so don't use this method on an expensive rim that you want to keep shiny to show off... Screwdrivers that have all their edges a tiny bit rounded work best. (I don't even own tire levers, and I don't feel any urge to buy them.)
– cmaster
Mar 5 at 20:23
I've always just used two flat-head screw drivers. Yes, you must be careful with those to avoid damaging rim, tube, or tire, but I've never had any serious damage. The rims do tend to get a small scratch or two though, so don't use this method on an expensive rim that you want to keep shiny to show off... Screwdrivers that have all their edges a tiny bit rounded work best. (I don't even own tire levers, and I don't feel any urge to buy them.)
– cmaster
Mar 5 at 20:23
2
2
A set of 3 costs $4.00 on Amazon. amazon.com/Diamondback-Bicycle-Tire-Lever-Black/dp/B00MJYQL6C/…
– Gary E
Mar 5 at 21:48
A set of 3 costs $4.00 on Amazon. amazon.com/Diamondback-Bicycle-Tire-Lever-Black/dp/B00MJYQL6C/…
– Gary E
Mar 5 at 21:48
|
show 7 more comments
7 Answers
7
active
oldest
votes
Prevention is the best cure. I know it takes 2 tyre levers to deal with a flat on my road bike, so I carry a pair of decent ones (with some silver paint on them so they show up better by torchlight). In addition I carry a third, old and worn but known good, because I've been known to snap plastic tyre levers (luckily at home). They can also ping off into the middle distance so a spare is no bad thing. I might swap this third one for a metal lever if I can find the ones I've got tucked away somewhere. Even if you could find (hard enough) wood, carving one requires a reasonable knife, which isn't part of a standard bike tool kit, though it is part of mine.
The fallback is other riders. I'm sometimes out solo at all hours hence why I go so well equipped (though rarely to the extent of carrying cutlery) but on many of the rides I do there are other riders on the same route. Some of them are likely to be with or behind me even if most are far in front. Even riding solo there are likely to be other cyclists around during the day.
Any rider can be struggling with a mechanical, and that's why you should slow down and check that a rider standing by the roadside is OK: one day it might be you, and looking after each other is the right thing to do anyway.
answered Mar 5 at 13:48
Chris HChris H
23.8k138105
7
+1 for the last paragraph. It's a person rule of mine to stop to help any other cyclist with a mechanical problem.
– Argenti Apparatus
Mar 5 at 19:45
add a comment |
Um... buy a new tyre lever? They're so cheap they're practically free.
OK, that doesn't help you this time but buying three or four tyre levers means there shouldn't be a "next time" for quite a while.
answered Mar 5 at 13:14
David RicherbyDavid Richerby
12.6k33464
2
Your right..But the next shop is 20km away. I have no car only a bicycle.
– CuriousIndeed
Mar 5 at 13:15
1
As a last resort, if no alternatives succeed and you cannot get anyone to bring a spare lever, you could potentially also order one online?
– cookiemonster
Mar 5 at 13:24
1
Yes, but this would leave me dependent on foot and public transport for the transitional period..I already fixed the problem by carving a tire lever out of the handle of a knife. But for next time - and probably on the road situations - I'm looking for alternatives.
– CuriousIndeed
Mar 5 at 13:26
Generally speaking tyre levers are lost at the side of the road, and quite likely in the dark (so even the nearest shop may be shut).
– Chris H
Mar 5 at 13:36
9
The solution for next time is to make sure there isn't a next time. Buy three or four tyre levers, so you have one or two spares. They're small so they should be in your on-the-road repair kit anyway.
– David Richerby
Mar 5 at 13:37
|
show 1 more comment
- Try to pull it by hand
In case your outer tube is not that firm, you're often able to remove it by hand. First, put the opposite side of the valve on the ground, massage the tube down so you get slightly more flexibility there. Next, put the valve on the ground, squeeze the tire firmly, pull it back a bit and try pushing very hard to get it over the rim.
Video description by Bike Rader
- Use the quick release
Depending on the exact shape, you could try to use the lever of your quick release. This highly depend on the lever but is definitely worth the try in your scenario.
- Bend some plastic
If you're home and have access to other tools, you might be able to bend some plastic (eg. old toothbrush). More details ons Instructables, but this is of course not possible while on the road.
answered Mar 5 at 13:20
cookiemonstercookiemonster
5656
1
+1 for "use the QR" - if I had normal QRs instead of security skewers I'd actually swap them out for ones that would do as tyre levers.
– Chris H
Mar 5 at 13:52
1
What helps a lot when pulling it by hand: First move the whole tire bead from the hooked edges to the middle of the rim. Usually the rim bed has a slightly smaller diameter which frees up enough “slack” to pull the tire off.
– Michael
Mar 7 at 7:24
add a comment |
On a mountain bike tires are usually soft and large enough to be able to use the "squeeze and bend" technique.
Like here
Edit I see that it's not limited to mountain bikes:
answered Mar 6 at 9:38
Hennadii MadanHennadii Madan
1512
add a comment |
At home I'd use a screwdriver. If you are out in the field and don't have a screwdriver, 9mm quick release levers work quite well and you bike already has two of them:
EDIT: As pointed out in the comments and some of the other answers, screwdrivers are not a good idea. You risk scratching the rim or puncturing the tube. Only do that if really need to, and be very careful.
answered Mar 5 at 17:18
mbatchkarovmbatchkarov
1514
1
I won't agree with a screwdriver part because it might cause more damage than bring good. But I totally agree with the QR lever part of the answer.
– Grigory Rechistov
Mar 5 at 20:43
I used a screwdriver once, An absolutely terrible idea. Didn't get the tire off but it did scratch my rim.
– Qwertie
Mar 5 at 23:47
If you try the QR levers, be sure to pay attention to what you're disassembling, so you don't accidentally drop your bearings on the ground (for certain styles of bearings sheldonbrown.com/cone-adjustment.html)
– PunctualEmoticon
Mar 7 at 5:14
add a comment |
For replacing the tire you need a pump, so I assume you have one. So you can use this part of it as a lever:
Used it several times without any problems.
answered Mar 6 at 11:38
k102k102
1,10911325
add a comment |
As kids we used the flat end of a screwdriver to get it started then stuck in a spoon. Moved the screwdriver along a bit and levered a bit more off etc. Just try not to stab the tube, lol.
answered Mar 5 at 15:56
HarryHarry
484
This is what I always used. The screwdriver could start it enough until I could stick in the end of a box end wrench (or a butter knife!). I think the main issue the OP has is that on a nicer bike, I wouldn't want to scratch the rims and anything metal can do that quickly.
– JPhi1618
Mar 5 at 16:53
I can't tell you how many tubes I've punctured with a screwdriver. Worth trying if you're desperate, but try your other options first.
– Daniel R Hicks
Mar 5 at 19:00
A thick-handled teaspoon works better in a pinch because its got more curved sides. A screwdriver's got sharper corners.
– Criggie♦
Mar 5 at 19:09
1
There was a case when I managed to damage inner tubes with regular plastic tire levers twice. For tight and skinny tires and somewhat bigger tubes inside (e.g. a 622-28 tube in a 622-25 tire) screwdrivers would be a suicide.
– Grigory Rechistov
Mar 5 at 20:46
add a comment |
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7 Answers
7
active
oldest
votes
7 Answers
7
active
oldest
votes
active
oldest
votes
active
oldest
votes
Prevention is the best cure. I know it takes 2 tyre levers to deal with a flat on my road bike, so I carry a pair of decent ones (with some silver paint on them so they show up better by torchlight). In addition I carry a third, old and worn but known good, because I've been known to snap plastic tyre levers (luckily at home). They can also ping off into the middle distance so a spare is no bad thing. I might swap this third one for a metal lever if I can find the ones I've got tucked away somewhere. Even if you could find (hard enough) wood, carving one requires a reasonable knife, which isn't part of a standard bike tool kit, though it is part of mine.
The fallback is other riders. I'm sometimes out solo at all hours hence why I go so well equipped (though rarely to the extent of carrying cutlery) but on many of the rides I do there are other riders on the same route. Some of them are likely to be with or behind me even if most are far in front. Even riding solo there are likely to be other cyclists around during the day.
Any rider can be struggling with a mechanical, and that's why you should slow down and check that a rider standing by the roadside is OK: one day it might be you, and looking after each other is the right thing to do anyway.
answered Mar 5 at 13:48
Chris HChris H
23.8k138105
7
+1 for the last paragraph. It's a person rule of mine to stop to help any other cyclist with a mechanical problem.
– Argenti Apparatus
Mar 5 at 19:45
add a comment |
Prevention is the best cure. I know it takes 2 tyre levers to deal with a flat on my road bike, so I carry a pair of decent ones (with some silver paint on them so they show up better by torchlight). In addition I carry a third, old and worn but known good, because I've been known to snap plastic tyre levers (luckily at home). They can also ping off into the middle distance so a spare is no bad thing. I might swap this third one for a metal lever if I can find the ones I've got tucked away somewhere. Even if you could find (hard enough) wood, carving one requires a reasonable knife, which isn't part of a standard bike tool kit, though it is part of mine.
The fallback is other riders. I'm sometimes out solo at all hours hence why I go so well equipped (though rarely to the extent of carrying cutlery) but on many of the rides I do there are other riders on the same route. Some of them are likely to be with or behind me even if most are far in front. Even riding solo there are likely to be other cyclists around during the day.
Any rider can be struggling with a mechanical, and that's why you should slow down and check that a rider standing by the roadside is OK: one day it might be you, and looking after each other is the right thing to do anyway.
answered Mar 5 at 13:48
Chris HChris H
23.8k138105
7
+1 for the last paragraph. It's a person rule of mine to stop to help any other cyclist with a mechanical problem.
– Argenti Apparatus
Mar 5 at 19:45
add a comment |
Prevention is the best cure. I know it takes 2 tyre levers to deal with a flat on my road bike, so I carry a pair of decent ones (with some silver paint on them so they show up better by torchlight). In addition I carry a third, old and worn but known good, because I've been known to snap plastic tyre levers (luckily at home). They can also ping off into the middle distance so a spare is no bad thing. I might swap this third one for a metal lever if I can find the ones I've got tucked away somewhere. Even if you could find (hard enough) wood, carving one requires a reasonable knife, which isn't part of a standard bike tool kit, though it is part of mine.
The fallback is other riders. I'm sometimes out solo at all hours hence why I go so well equipped (though rarely to the extent of carrying cutlery) but on many of the rides I do there are other riders on the same route. Some of them are likely to be with or behind me even if most are far in front. Even riding solo there are likely to be other cyclists around during the day.
Any rider can be struggling with a mechanical, and that's why you should slow down and check that a rider standing by the roadside is OK: one day it might be you, and looking after each other is the right thing to do anyway.
answered Mar 5 at 13:48
Chris HChris H
23.8k138105
Prevention is the best cure. I know it takes 2 tyre levers to deal with a flat on my road bike, so I carry a pair of decent ones (with some silver paint on them so they show up better by torchlight). In addition I carry a third, old and worn but known good, because I've been known to snap plastic tyre levers (luckily at home). They can also ping off into the middle distance so a spare is no bad thing. I might swap this third one for a metal lever if I can find the ones I've got tucked away somewhere. Even if you could find (hard enough) wood, carving one requires a reasonable knife, which isn't part of a standard bike tool kit, though it is part of mine.
The fallback is other riders. I'm sometimes out solo at all hours hence why I go so well equipped (though rarely to the extent of carrying cutlery) but on many of the rides I do there are other riders on the same route. Some of them are likely to be with or behind me even if most are far in front. Even riding solo there are likely to be other cyclists around during the day.
Any rider can be struggling with a mechanical, and that's why you should slow down and check that a rider standing by the roadside is OK: one day it might be you, and looking after each other is the right thing to do anyway.
answered Mar 5 at 13:48
Chris HChris H
23.8k138105
edited Mar 5 at 20:35
answered Mar 5 at 13:48
Chris HChris H
23.8k138105
answered Mar 5 at 13:48
Chris HChris H
23.8k138105
answered Mar 5 at 13:48
Chris HChris H
23.8k138105
23.8k138105
7
+1 for the last paragraph. It's a person rule of mine to stop to help any other cyclist with a mechanical problem.
– Argenti Apparatus
Mar 5 at 19:45
add a comment |
7
+1 for the last paragraph. It's a person rule of mine to stop to help any other cyclist with a mechanical problem.
– Argenti Apparatus
Mar 5 at 19:45
7
7
+1 for the last paragraph. It's a person rule of mine to stop to help any other cyclist with a mechanical problem.
– Argenti Apparatus
Mar 5 at 19:45
+1 for the last paragraph. It's a person rule of mine to stop to help any other cyclist with a mechanical problem.
– Argenti Apparatus
Mar 5 at 19:45
add a comment |
Um... buy a new tyre lever? They're so cheap they're practically free.
OK, that doesn't help you this time but buying three or four tyre levers means there shouldn't be a "next time" for quite a while.
answered Mar 5 at 13:14
David RicherbyDavid Richerby
12.6k33464
2
Your right..But the next shop is 20km away. I have no car only a bicycle.
– CuriousIndeed
Mar 5 at 13:15
1
As a last resort, if no alternatives succeed and you cannot get anyone to bring a spare lever, you could potentially also order one online?
– cookiemonster
Mar 5 at 13:24
1
Yes, but this would leave me dependent on foot and public transport for the transitional period..I already fixed the problem by carving a tire lever out of the handle of a knife. But for next time - and probably on the road situations - I'm looking for alternatives.
– CuriousIndeed
Mar 5 at 13:26
Generally speaking tyre levers are lost at the side of the road, and quite likely in the dark (so even the nearest shop may be shut).
– Chris H
Mar 5 at 13:36
9
The solution for next time is to make sure there isn't a next time. Buy three or four tyre levers, so you have one or two spares. They're small so they should be in your on-the-road repair kit anyway.
– David Richerby
Mar 5 at 13:37
|
show 1 more comment
Um... buy a new tyre lever? They're so cheap they're practically free.
OK, that doesn't help you this time but buying three or four tyre levers means there shouldn't be a "next time" for quite a while.
answered Mar 5 at 13:14
David RicherbyDavid Richerby
12.6k33464
2
Your right..But the next shop is 20km away. I have no car only a bicycle.
– CuriousIndeed
Mar 5 at 13:15
1
As a last resort, if no alternatives succeed and you cannot get anyone to bring a spare lever, you could potentially also order one online?
– cookiemonster
Mar 5 at 13:24
1
Yes, but this would leave me dependent on foot and public transport for the transitional period..I already fixed the problem by carving a tire lever out of the handle of a knife. But for next time - and probably on the road situations - I'm looking for alternatives.
– CuriousIndeed
Mar 5 at 13:26
Generally speaking tyre levers are lost at the side of the road, and quite likely in the dark (so even the nearest shop may be shut).
– Chris H
Mar 5 at 13:36
9
The solution for next time is to make sure there isn't a next time. Buy three or four tyre levers, so you have one or two spares. They're small so they should be in your on-the-road repair kit anyway.
– David Richerby
Mar 5 at 13:37
|
show 1 more comment
Um... buy a new tyre lever? They're so cheap they're practically free.
OK, that doesn't help you this time but buying three or four tyre levers means there shouldn't be a "next time" for quite a while.
answered Mar 5 at 13:14
David RicherbyDavid Richerby
12.6k33464
Um... buy a new tyre lever? They're so cheap they're practically free.
OK, that doesn't help you this time but buying three or four tyre levers means there shouldn't be a "next time" for quite a while.
answered Mar 5 at 13:14
David RicherbyDavid Richerby
12.6k33464
edited Mar 5 at 20:08
answered Mar 5 at 13:14
David RicherbyDavid Richerby
12.6k33464
answered Mar 5 at 13:14
David RicherbyDavid Richerby
12.6k33464
answered Mar 5 at 13:14
David RicherbyDavid Richerby
12.6k33464
12.6k33464
2
Your right..But the next shop is 20km away. I have no car only a bicycle.
– CuriousIndeed
Mar 5 at 13:15
1
As a last resort, if no alternatives succeed and you cannot get anyone to bring a spare lever, you could potentially also order one online?
– cookiemonster
Mar 5 at 13:24
1
Yes, but this would leave me dependent on foot and public transport for the transitional period..I already fixed the problem by carving a tire lever out of the handle of a knife. But for next time - and probably on the road situations - I'm looking for alternatives.
– CuriousIndeed
Mar 5 at 13:26
Generally speaking tyre levers are lost at the side of the road, and quite likely in the dark (so even the nearest shop may be shut).
– Chris H
Mar 5 at 13:36
9
The solution for next time is to make sure there isn't a next time. Buy three or four tyre levers, so you have one or two spares. They're small so they should be in your on-the-road repair kit anyway.
– David Richerby
Mar 5 at 13:37
|
show 1 more comment
2
Your right..But the next shop is 20km away. I have no car only a bicycle.
– CuriousIndeed
Mar 5 at 13:15
1
As a last resort, if no alternatives succeed and you cannot get anyone to bring a spare lever, you could potentially also order one online?
– cookiemonster
Mar 5 at 13:24
1
Yes, but this would leave me dependent on foot and public transport for the transitional period..I already fixed the problem by carving a tire lever out of the handle of a knife. But for next time - and probably on the road situations - I'm looking for alternatives.
– CuriousIndeed
Mar 5 at 13:26
Generally speaking tyre levers are lost at the side of the road, and quite likely in the dark (so even the nearest shop may be shut).
– Chris H
Mar 5 at 13:36
9
The solution for next time is to make sure there isn't a next time. Buy three or four tyre levers, so you have one or two spares. They're small so they should be in your on-the-road repair kit anyway.
– David Richerby
Mar 5 at 13:37
2
2
Your right..But the next shop is 20km away. I have no car only a bicycle.
– CuriousIndeed
Mar 5 at 13:15
Your right..But the next shop is 20km away. I have no car only a bicycle.
– CuriousIndeed
Mar 5 at 13:15
1
1
As a last resort, if no alternatives succeed and you cannot get anyone to bring a spare lever, you could potentially also order one online?
– cookiemonster
Mar 5 at 13:24
As a last resort, if no alternatives succeed and you cannot get anyone to bring a spare lever, you could potentially also order one online?
– cookiemonster
Mar 5 at 13:24
1
1
Yes, but this would leave me dependent on foot and public transport for the transitional period..I already fixed the problem by carving a tire lever out of the handle of a knife. But for next time - and probably on the road situations - I'm looking for alternatives.
– CuriousIndeed
Mar 5 at 13:26
Yes, but this would leave me dependent on foot and public transport for the transitional period..I already fixed the problem by carving a tire lever out of the handle of a knife. But for next time - and probably on the road situations - I'm looking for alternatives.
– CuriousIndeed
Mar 5 at 13:26
Generally speaking tyre levers are lost at the side of the road, and quite likely in the dark (so even the nearest shop may be shut).
– Chris H
Mar 5 at 13:36
Generally speaking tyre levers are lost at the side of the road, and quite likely in the dark (so even the nearest shop may be shut).
– Chris H
Mar 5 at 13:36
9
9
The solution for next time is to make sure there isn't a next time. Buy three or four tyre levers, so you have one or two spares. They're small so they should be in your on-the-road repair kit anyway.
– David Richerby
Mar 5 at 13:37
The solution for next time is to make sure there isn't a next time. Buy three or four tyre levers, so you have one or two spares. They're small so they should be in your on-the-road repair kit anyway.
– David Richerby
Mar 5 at 13:37
|
show 1 more comment
- Try to pull it by hand
In case your outer tube is not that firm, you're often able to remove it by hand. First, put the opposite side of the valve on the ground, massage the tube down so you get slightly more flexibility there. Next, put the valve on the ground, squeeze the tire firmly, pull it back a bit and try pushing very hard to get it over the rim.
Video description by Bike Rader
- Use the quick release
Depending on the exact shape, you could try to use the lever of your quick release. This highly depend on the lever but is definitely worth the try in your scenario.
- Bend some plastic
If you're home and have access to other tools, you might be able to bend some plastic (eg. old toothbrush). More details ons Instructables, but this is of course not possible while on the road.
answered Mar 5 at 13:20
cookiemonstercookiemonster
5656
1
+1 for "use the QR" - if I had normal QRs instead of security skewers I'd actually swap them out for ones that would do as tyre levers.
– Chris H
Mar 5 at 13:52
1
What helps a lot when pulling it by hand: First move the whole tire bead from the hooked edges to the middle of the rim. Usually the rim bed has a slightly smaller diameter which frees up enough “slack” to pull the tire off.
– Michael
Mar 7 at 7:24
add a comment |
- Try to pull it by hand
In case your outer tube is not that firm, you're often able to remove it by hand. First, put the opposite side of the valve on the ground, massage the tube down so you get slightly more flexibility there. Next, put the valve on the ground, squeeze the tire firmly, pull it back a bit and try pushing very hard to get it over the rim.
Video description by Bike Rader
- Use the quick release
Depending on the exact shape, you could try to use the lever of your quick release. This highly depend on the lever but is definitely worth the try in your scenario.
- Bend some plastic
If you're home and have access to other tools, you might be able to bend some plastic (eg. old toothbrush). More details ons Instructables, but this is of course not possible while on the road.
answered Mar 5 at 13:20
cookiemonstercookiemonster
5656
1
+1 for "use the QR" - if I had normal QRs instead of security skewers I'd actually swap them out for ones that would do as tyre levers.
– Chris H
Mar 5 at 13:52
1
What helps a lot when pulling it by hand: First move the whole tire bead from the hooked edges to the middle of the rim. Usually the rim bed has a slightly smaller diameter which frees up enough “slack” to pull the tire off.
– Michael
Mar 7 at 7:24
add a comment |
- Try to pull it by hand
In case your outer tube is not that firm, you're often able to remove it by hand. First, put the opposite side of the valve on the ground, massage the tube down so you get slightly more flexibility there. Next, put the valve on the ground, squeeze the tire firmly, pull it back a bit and try pushing very hard to get it over the rim.
Video description by Bike Rader
- Use the quick release
Depending on the exact shape, you could try to use the lever of your quick release. This highly depend on the lever but is definitely worth the try in your scenario.
- Bend some plastic
If you're home and have access to other tools, you might be able to bend some plastic (eg. old toothbrush). More details ons Instructables, but this is of course not possible while on the road.
answered Mar 5 at 13:20
cookiemonstercookiemonster
5656
- Try to pull it by hand
In case your outer tube is not that firm, you're often able to remove it by hand. First, put the opposite side of the valve on the ground, massage the tube down so you get slightly more flexibility there. Next, put the valve on the ground, squeeze the tire firmly, pull it back a bit and try pushing very hard to get it over the rim.
Video description by Bike Rader
- Use the quick release
Depending on the exact shape, you could try to use the lever of your quick release. This highly depend on the lever but is definitely worth the try in your scenario.
- Bend some plastic
If you're home and have access to other tools, you might be able to bend some plastic (eg. old toothbrush). More details ons Instructables, but this is of course not possible while on the road.
answered Mar 5 at 13:20
cookiemonstercookiemonster
5656
edited Mar 5 at 13:47
answered Mar 5 at 13:20
cookiemonstercookiemonster
5656
answered Mar 5 at 13:20
cookiemonstercookiemonster
5656
answered Mar 5 at 13:20
cookiemonstercookiemonster
5656
5656
1
+1 for "use the QR" - if I had normal QRs instead of security skewers I'd actually swap them out for ones that would do as tyre levers.
– Chris H
Mar 5 at 13:52
1
What helps a lot when pulling it by hand: First move the whole tire bead from the hooked edges to the middle of the rim. Usually the rim bed has a slightly smaller diameter which frees up enough “slack” to pull the tire off.
– Michael
Mar 7 at 7:24
add a comment |
1
+1 for "use the QR" - if I had normal QRs instead of security skewers I'd actually swap them out for ones that would do as tyre levers.
– Chris H
Mar 5 at 13:52
1
What helps a lot when pulling it by hand: First move the whole tire bead from the hooked edges to the middle of the rim. Usually the rim bed has a slightly smaller diameter which frees up enough “slack” to pull the tire off.
– Michael
Mar 7 at 7:24
1
1
+1 for "use the QR" - if I had normal QRs instead of security skewers I'd actually swap them out for ones that would do as tyre levers.
– Chris H
Mar 5 at 13:52
+1 for "use the QR" - if I had normal QRs instead of security skewers I'd actually swap them out for ones that would do as tyre levers.
– Chris H
Mar 5 at 13:52
1
1
What helps a lot when pulling it by hand: First move the whole tire bead from the hooked edges to the middle of the rim. Usually the rim bed has a slightly smaller diameter which frees up enough “slack” to pull the tire off.
– Michael
Mar 7 at 7:24
What helps a lot when pulling it by hand: First move the whole tire bead from the hooked edges to the middle of the rim. Usually the rim bed has a slightly smaller diameter which frees up enough “slack” to pull the tire off.
– Michael
Mar 7 at 7:24
add a comment |
On a mountain bike tires are usually soft and large enough to be able to use the "squeeze and bend" technique.
Like here
Edit I see that it's not limited to mountain bikes:
answered Mar 6 at 9:38
Hennadii MadanHennadii Madan
1512
add a comment |
On a mountain bike tires are usually soft and large enough to be able to use the "squeeze and bend" technique.
Like here
Edit I see that it's not limited to mountain bikes:
answered Mar 6 at 9:38
Hennadii MadanHennadii Madan
1512
add a comment |
On a mountain bike tires are usually soft and large enough to be able to use the "squeeze and bend" technique.
Like here
Edit I see that it's not limited to mountain bikes:
answered Mar 6 at 9:38
Hennadii MadanHennadii Madan
1512
On a mountain bike tires are usually soft and large enough to be able to use the "squeeze and bend" technique.
Like here
Edit I see that it's not limited to mountain bikes:
answered Mar 6 at 9:38
Hennadii MadanHennadii Madan
1512
answered Mar 6 at 9:38
Hennadii MadanHennadii Madan
1512
answered Mar 6 at 9:38
Hennadii MadanHennadii Madan
1512
answered Mar 6 at 9:38
Hennadii MadanHennadii Madan
1512
1512
add a comment |
add a comment |
At home I'd use a screwdriver. If you are out in the field and don't have a screwdriver, 9mm quick release levers work quite well and you bike already has two of them:
EDIT: As pointed out in the comments and some of the other answers, screwdrivers are not a good idea. You risk scratching the rim or puncturing the tube. Only do that if really need to, and be very careful.
answered Mar 5 at 17:18
mbatchkarovmbatchkarov
1514
1
I won't agree with a screwdriver part because it might cause more damage than bring good. But I totally agree with the QR lever part of the answer.
– Grigory Rechistov
Mar 5 at 20:43
I used a screwdriver once, An absolutely terrible idea. Didn't get the tire off but it did scratch my rim.
– Qwertie
Mar 5 at 23:47
If you try the QR levers, be sure to pay attention to what you're disassembling, so you don't accidentally drop your bearings on the ground (for certain styles of bearings sheldonbrown.com/cone-adjustment.html)
– PunctualEmoticon
Mar 7 at 5:14
add a comment |
At home I'd use a screwdriver. If you are out in the field and don't have a screwdriver, 9mm quick release levers work quite well and you bike already has two of them:
EDIT: As pointed out in the comments and some of the other answers, screwdrivers are not a good idea. You risk scratching the rim or puncturing the tube. Only do that if really need to, and be very careful.
answered Mar 5 at 17:18
mbatchkarovmbatchkarov
1514
1
I won't agree with a screwdriver part because it might cause more damage than bring good. But I totally agree with the QR lever part of the answer.
– Grigory Rechistov
Mar 5 at 20:43
I used a screwdriver once, An absolutely terrible idea. Didn't get the tire off but it did scratch my rim.
– Qwertie
Mar 5 at 23:47
If you try the QR levers, be sure to pay attention to what you're disassembling, so you don't accidentally drop your bearings on the ground (for certain styles of bearings sheldonbrown.com/cone-adjustment.html)
– PunctualEmoticon
Mar 7 at 5:14
add a comment |
At home I'd use a screwdriver. If you are out in the field and don't have a screwdriver, 9mm quick release levers work quite well and you bike already has two of them:
EDIT: As pointed out in the comments and some of the other answers, screwdrivers are not a good idea. You risk scratching the rim or puncturing the tube. Only do that if really need to, and be very careful.
answered Mar 5 at 17:18
mbatchkarovmbatchkarov
1514
At home I'd use a screwdriver. If you are out in the field and don't have a screwdriver, 9mm quick release levers work quite well and you bike already has two of them:
EDIT: As pointed out in the comments and some of the other answers, screwdrivers are not a good idea. You risk scratching the rim or puncturing the tube. Only do that if really need to, and be very careful.
answered Mar 5 at 17:18
mbatchkarovmbatchkarov
1514
edited Mar 6 at 12:11
answered Mar 5 at 17:18
mbatchkarovmbatchkarov
1514
answered Mar 5 at 17:18
mbatchkarovmbatchkarov
1514
answered Mar 5 at 17:18
mbatchkarovmbatchkarov
1514
1514
1
I won't agree with a screwdriver part because it might cause more damage than bring good. But I totally agree with the QR lever part of the answer.
– Grigory Rechistov
Mar 5 at 20:43
I used a screwdriver once, An absolutely terrible idea. Didn't get the tire off but it did scratch my rim.
– Qwertie
Mar 5 at 23:47
If you try the QR levers, be sure to pay attention to what you're disassembling, so you don't accidentally drop your bearings on the ground (for certain styles of bearings sheldonbrown.com/cone-adjustment.html)
– PunctualEmoticon
Mar 7 at 5:14
add a comment |
1
I won't agree with a screwdriver part because it might cause more damage than bring good. But I totally agree with the QR lever part of the answer.
– Grigory Rechistov
Mar 5 at 20:43
I used a screwdriver once, An absolutely terrible idea. Didn't get the tire off but it did scratch my rim.
– Qwertie
Mar 5 at 23:47
If you try the QR levers, be sure to pay attention to what you're disassembling, so you don't accidentally drop your bearings on the ground (for certain styles of bearings sheldonbrown.com/cone-adjustment.html)
– PunctualEmoticon
Mar 7 at 5:14
1
1
I won't agree with a screwdriver part because it might cause more damage than bring good. But I totally agree with the QR lever part of the answer.
– Grigory Rechistov
Mar 5 at 20:43
I won't agree with a screwdriver part because it might cause more damage than bring good. But I totally agree with the QR lever part of the answer.
– Grigory Rechistov
Mar 5 at 20:43
I used a screwdriver once, An absolutely terrible idea. Didn't get the tire off but it did scratch my rim.
– Qwertie
Mar 5 at 23:47
I used a screwdriver once, An absolutely terrible idea. Didn't get the tire off but it did scratch my rim.
– Qwertie
Mar 5 at 23:47
If you try the QR levers, be sure to pay attention to what you're disassembling, so you don't accidentally drop your bearings on the ground (for certain styles of bearings sheldonbrown.com/cone-adjustment.html)
– PunctualEmoticon
Mar 7 at 5:14
If you try the QR levers, be sure to pay attention to what you're disassembling, so you don't accidentally drop your bearings on the ground (for certain styles of bearings sheldonbrown.com/cone-adjustment.html)
– PunctualEmoticon
Mar 7 at 5:14
add a comment |
For replacing the tire you need a pump, so I assume you have one. So you can use this part of it as a lever:
Used it several times without any problems.
answered Mar 6 at 11:38
k102k102
1,10911325
add a comment |
For replacing the tire you need a pump, so I assume you have one. So you can use this part of it as a lever:
Used it several times without any problems.
answered Mar 6 at 11:38
k102k102
1,10911325
add a comment |
For replacing the tire you need a pump, so I assume you have one. So you can use this part of it as a lever:
Used it several times without any problems.
answered Mar 6 at 11:38
k102k102
1,10911325
For replacing the tire you need a pump, so I assume you have one. So you can use this part of it as a lever:
Used it several times without any problems.
answered Mar 6 at 11:38
k102k102
1,10911325
edited Mar 6 at 12:31
answered Mar 6 at 11:38
k102k102
1,10911325
answered Mar 6 at 11:38
k102k102
1,10911325
answered Mar 6 at 11:38
k102k102
1,10911325
1,10911325
add a comment |
add a comment |
As kids we used the flat end of a screwdriver to get it started then stuck in a spoon. Moved the screwdriver along a bit and levered a bit more off etc. Just try not to stab the tube, lol.
answered Mar 5 at 15:56
HarryHarry
484
This is what I always used. The screwdriver could start it enough until I could stick in the end of a box end wrench (or a butter knife!). I think the main issue the OP has is that on a nicer bike, I wouldn't want to scratch the rims and anything metal can do that quickly.
– JPhi1618
Mar 5 at 16:53
I can't tell you how many tubes I've punctured with a screwdriver. Worth trying if you're desperate, but try your other options first.
– Daniel R Hicks
Mar 5 at 19:00
A thick-handled teaspoon works better in a pinch because its got more curved sides. A screwdriver's got sharper corners.
– Criggie♦
Mar 5 at 19:09
1
There was a case when I managed to damage inner tubes with regular plastic tire levers twice. For tight and skinny tires and somewhat bigger tubes inside (e.g. a 622-28 tube in a 622-25 tire) screwdrivers would be a suicide.
– Grigory Rechistov
Mar 5 at 20:46
add a comment |
As kids we used the flat end of a screwdriver to get it started then stuck in a spoon. Moved the screwdriver along a bit and levered a bit more off etc. Just try not to stab the tube, lol.
answered Mar 5 at 15:56
HarryHarry
484
This is what I always used. The screwdriver could start it enough until I could stick in the end of a box end wrench (or a butter knife!). I think the main issue the OP has is that on a nicer bike, I wouldn't want to scratch the rims and anything metal can do that quickly.
– JPhi1618
Mar 5 at 16:53
I can't tell you how many tubes I've punctured with a screwdriver. Worth trying if you're desperate, but try your other options first.
– Daniel R Hicks
Mar 5 at 19:00
A thick-handled teaspoon works better in a pinch because its got more curved sides. A screwdriver's got sharper corners.
– Criggie♦
Mar 5 at 19:09
1
There was a case when I managed to damage inner tubes with regular plastic tire levers twice. For tight and skinny tires and somewhat bigger tubes inside (e.g. a 622-28 tube in a 622-25 tire) screwdrivers would be a suicide.
– Grigory Rechistov
Mar 5 at 20:46
add a comment |
As kids we used the flat end of a screwdriver to get it started then stuck in a spoon. Moved the screwdriver along a bit and levered a bit more off etc. Just try not to stab the tube, lol.
answered Mar 5 at 15:56
HarryHarry
484
As kids we used the flat end of a screwdriver to get it started then stuck in a spoon. Moved the screwdriver along a bit and levered a bit more off etc. Just try not to stab the tube, lol.
answered Mar 5 at 15:56
HarryHarry
484
answered Mar 5 at 15:56
HarryHarry
484
answered Mar 5 at 15:56
HarryHarry
484
answered Mar 5 at 15:56
HarryHarry
484
484
This is what I always used. The screwdriver could start it enough until I could stick in the end of a box end wrench (or a butter knife!). I think the main issue the OP has is that on a nicer bike, I wouldn't want to scratch the rims and anything metal can do that quickly.
– JPhi1618
Mar 5 at 16:53
I can't tell you how many tubes I've punctured with a screwdriver. Worth trying if you're desperate, but try your other options first.
– Daniel R Hicks
Mar 5 at 19:00
A thick-handled teaspoon works better in a pinch because its got more curved sides. A screwdriver's got sharper corners.
– Criggie♦
Mar 5 at 19:09
1
There was a case when I managed to damage inner tubes with regular plastic tire levers twice. For tight and skinny tires and somewhat bigger tubes inside (e.g. a 622-28 tube in a 622-25 tire) screwdrivers would be a suicide.
– Grigory Rechistov
Mar 5 at 20:46
add a comment |
This is what I always used. The screwdriver could start it enough until I could stick in the end of a box end wrench (or a butter knife!). I think the main issue the OP has is that on a nicer bike, I wouldn't want to scratch the rims and anything metal can do that quickly.
– JPhi1618
Mar 5 at 16:53
I can't tell you how many tubes I've punctured with a screwdriver. Worth trying if you're desperate, but try your other options first.
– Daniel R Hicks
Mar 5 at 19:00
A thick-handled teaspoon works better in a pinch because its got more curved sides. A screwdriver's got sharper corners.
– Criggie♦
Mar 5 at 19:09
1
There was a case when I managed to damage inner tubes with regular plastic tire levers twice. For tight and skinny tires and somewhat bigger tubes inside (e.g. a 622-28 tube in a 622-25 tire) screwdrivers would be a suicide.
– Grigory Rechistov
Mar 5 at 20:46
This is what I always used. The screwdriver could start it enough until I could stick in the end of a box end wrench (or a butter knife!). I think the main issue the OP has is that on a nicer bike, I wouldn't want to scratch the rims and anything metal can do that quickly.
– JPhi1618
Mar 5 at 16:53
This is what I always used. The screwdriver could start it enough until I could stick in the end of a box end wrench (or a butter knife!). I think the main issue the OP has is that on a nicer bike, I wouldn't want to scratch the rims and anything metal can do that quickly.
– JPhi1618
Mar 5 at 16:53
I can't tell you how many tubes I've punctured with a screwdriver. Worth trying if you're desperate, but try your other options first.
– Daniel R Hicks
Mar 5 at 19:00
I can't tell you how many tubes I've punctured with a screwdriver. Worth trying if you're desperate, but try your other options first.
– Daniel R Hicks
Mar 5 at 19:00
A thick-handled teaspoon works better in a pinch because its got more curved sides. A screwdriver's got sharper corners.
– Criggie♦
Mar 5 at 19:09
A thick-handled teaspoon works better in a pinch because its got more curved sides. A screwdriver's got sharper corners.
– Criggie♦
Mar 5 at 19:09
1
1
There was a case when I managed to damage inner tubes with regular plastic tire levers twice. For tight and skinny tires and somewhat bigger tubes inside (e.g. a 622-28 tube in a 622-25 tire) screwdrivers would be a suicide.
– Grigory Rechistov
Mar 5 at 20:46
There was a case when I managed to damage inner tubes with regular plastic tire levers twice. For tight and skinny tires and somewhat bigger tubes inside (e.g. a 622-28 tube in a 622-25 tire) screwdrivers would be a suicide.
– Grigory Rechistov
Mar 5 at 20:46
add a comment |
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2
How is it possible to have only one tire lever??? Of course, if desperate you can use a screwdriver, but it's better to use something with rounded edges. Plastic is better than metal, but the old-fashioned metal tire levers work.
– Daniel R Hicks
Mar 5 at 18:58
2
This question is crying out for a [bodge] tag. (not an insult)
– Criggie♦
Mar 5 at 19:10
2
There are two questions mixed together here 1) What can I use for a tire lever If I'm at home 2) What can I use for a tire lever when out on a ride. 'A spoon handle' is a reasonable answer to (1) but not (2) (unless you happen to get a puncture in a cafe).
– Argenti Apparatus
Mar 5 at 19:42
1
I've always just used two flat-head screw drivers. Yes, you must be careful with those to avoid damaging rim, tube, or tire, but I've never had any serious damage. The rims do tend to get a small scratch or two though, so don't use this method on an expensive rim that you want to keep shiny to show off... Screwdrivers that have all their edges a tiny bit rounded work best. (I don't even own tire levers, and I don't feel any urge to buy them.)
– cmaster
Mar 5 at 20:23
2
A set of 3 costs $4.00 on Amazon. amazon.com/Diamondback-Bicycle-Tire-Lever-Black/dp/B00MJYQL6C/…
– Gary E
Mar 5 at 21:48