Tire plug question
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Feb 2009
Posts: 5,642
Likes: 1,985
From: Cleveland Zoo
I had two flats last year, plugged both times, got new tires on ASAP.
Mike
Elite HDF Member
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 4,128
Likes: 27
From: florida swamp
IMO, If it's a slow leaker because of a nail or screw in the tread and you caught it early because you check your pressure regularly, I wouldn't have a problem with a plug, running the tire and keeping an eye on the air pressue. However, if the leak was bad enough that you rode a fair distance on a deflating tire and finally started feeling it get squirrelly before you stopped, then I would plug it and only ride it long enough to get home to avoid a tow. I would replace that tire quickly because of the stress that was put on the sidewalls. I would be worried the tire might come apart in the future.
Elite HDF Member
Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 3,785
Likes: 63
From: Eastern Washington State
I rode my last rear tire 8000 miles with a plug. About 6000 miles into it, I re-plugged it after it developed a slow leak.
I've never had an issue with a plugged tire.
Every time this subject comes up I make the same offer. If you are replacing a good tire because of a plug, I will pay the shipping if it fits my bike and I will take it off your hands.
I've never had an issue with a plugged tire.
Every time this subject comes up I make the same offer. If you are replacing a good tire because of a plug, I will pay the shipping if it fits my bike and I will take it off your hands.
Road Warrior
Joined: Dec 2007
Posts: 1,412
Likes: 2
From: Ma
I've run with plugs in the past and have replaced the tire at times, mainly because of my "feel" for the plugs location. I would say I'd replace it if the plug is more than a 10 degree roll up from the tire center. Or depending on the size of the object. Like I said, depends how I "feel" about it as I generally ride the bike pretty hard.
Right now I'm running a plug on my rear. About an inch away from center. It was a small diameter brad that penetrated and came out real clean. I have about 4k left on the tire and will not replace it till then
Right now I'm running a plug on my rear. About an inch away from center. It was a small diameter brad that penetrated and came out real clean. I have about 4k left on the tire and will not replace it till then
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 2,945
Likes: 85
From: Florida
Nope, maybe 5 lbs in a week. After it started it, I re-plugged it. Not a problem at all.
But thanks for caring.
8,000 miles on a tire that some here would have thrown away.
BTW, what do you guys think happens to those new tires you have replaced?? Let me clue you in... The guys that talked you into buying a tire new tire and changed the tires out for you are riding them or giving them to friends to ride. Think about it...
But thanks for caring.
8,000 miles on a tire that some here would have thrown away.
BTW, what do you guys think happens to those new tires you have replaced?? Let me clue you in... The guys that talked you into buying a tire new tire and changed the tires out for you are riding them or giving them to friends to ride. Think about it...
Last edited by Jonesee; Jul 8, 2011 at 09:45 PM.
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Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 5,149
Likes: 2,975
From: WACO
I have plugged a tire on the road. As soon as I got home I took it off and had my indie put a plug/patch in it. Wore that tire out without a worry. This is an example plug/patch. Have to take tire off rim and do it from the inside. Cheaper than a $200.00 tire.
http://www.globalindustrial.com/p/ja...ter-pack-of-18
http://www.globalindustrial.com/p/ja...ter-pack-of-18
Last edited by OLD 96; Jul 8, 2011 at 10:47 PM.
Road Captain
Joined: Jan 2010
Posts: 620
Likes: 61
From: Castle Rock, CO
Two things, first, make certain you check your tire pressure every time you ride. Second, It is my understanding that if the plug is in the middle it would probably be fine, but if it is close to the sidewall, then a replacement is called for.