SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/bike-fix-flat-deflate-first

Before prying a tire off the rim with tire levers, what should you do?

Deflate the tube completely first.

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  1. Deflate the tube completely ✔
  2. Pump the tube up hard
  3. Loosen the spokes

Why: Even a little air left in the tube makes the tire harder to get off. Let all the air out, then use tire levers to lift the bead over the rim.

Huh, didn't know that: Park Tool says never to pry a tire with a screwdriver or knife, because it can damage the tire or tube.

The dad joke
Why did the flat tire need a break? It was tired of going in circles.
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References

Answer: Deflate the tube completely. Even a little air left in the tube makes the tire harder to get off. Let all the air out, then use tire levers to lift the bead over the rim.

  1. Park Tool: Tire and Tube Removal and Installation www.parktool.com/en-us/blog/repair-help/tire-and-tube-removal-and-installation
    Deflate tire completely. Even a small amount of air left in the tube can make it more difficult to get the tire off.
    Checked 2026-10-12.

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