Repairing a flat tire is relatively easy, and any experienced cyclist will tell you that it is just foolish to go for a long bike ride without the proper equiptment and know-how to change a flat. First here is what you need.

A spare tube- Your spare tube should be the correct size and have the correct kind of valve. Tube size is listed in two numbers which basically refer to the size of your rim and the size of your tire. (most Mountain bikes have this listed in inches, while most road bikes use the metric system- this is probably due to the fact that road riding first gained popularity in Europe, while Mountain biking has its roots in California) For example a common Mountain bike tube size is 26X1.9/2.125. This means that you have a 26" wheel (also listed on the tire) and the tube can fit tires that have a diameter of 1.9" to 2.125". So if on the side of your tire it says 26X1.95, this tube will fit just fine. There are two common types of valves presta and schraeder. Schraeder valves are like the ones you have on your car, presta (french) valves are narrower.

Tire levers- This is basically small flat plastic "stick" with a flat end and a hook on the other end. Please note that the hook should never come anywhere near the tube or tire. The hook is used to hook onto a spoke to hold the lever in place if you need to. Once you get good, you may not need the tire levers except on particularly difficult wheels.

Patch Kit- A good idea to have with you in case you get two flats. Patch kit use is another topic of discussion, and I won't cover it here.

Pump- You will need to have something to put air in your tire. Racers and people who don't want to spend the time and effort blowing up the tube may use CO2 pumps, but most people just use a hand pump. Larger "Floor Pumps" are common for home use, and small "mini-pumps" are ideal for taking with you on a ride. Make sure your pump can produce the pressure you will need. Note that many MTB pumps will have trouble producing the 100+lbs of pressure that you would put in a road tire.

Changing the tire

Step 1: Remove the Wheel- To remove the wheel, you will often have to disconnect or loosten the brakes. This is done without tools, DO NOT use an allen wench to disconnect the cable. On most styles of MTB brakes, if you push the brake together you will see that the cable loostens, and there is a stop that you can easily pull the cable or cable noodle out of. Most bikes have quick release levers,

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