my flat tire saga

[windplr]

Not really a saga, but thought I'd share this. Riding to work yesterday AM the TPM warning light begins flashing. I pulled over and found my rear tire had taken a nail, and was losing pressure fast. I was less than a mile from a gas station, and was able to ride there and fill the tire. At that point, I decided to try and ride to the dealership, about 10 miles away. I was able to do that, stopping once on the way to put more air in the tire.

At the dealer, I hoped they had the tire in stock. They did not (and the stock Metzlers are all back-ordered). They also do not repair tires (some liability thing), but do sell tire repair kits. The service manager said he has used this particular kit many times and that they work well. I was dubious, but with no other options bought the kit for $35. They did actually give me some help and a couple of tools to use. Tire is plugged and holding air. Since the bike (and tires) have less than 2000 miles on it, I'm going to monitor it closely and just ride it for now.

After this experience, I will always be carrying this repair kit, and am going to order one of the small 12volt inflators to carry along as well.

 

[Snowdog]

It is bad karma to even discuss flat tires!!!

 

[TwoPort]

At the dealer, I hoped they had the tire in stock. They did not (and the stock Metzlers are all back-ordered).

Out of stock again? This was the case a few months ago. I always carry an extra of front and rear. Maybe I should have 2 of each.

 

[SteveADV]

I've put many many miles on a plugged rear tire. Simple puncture. Frequent pressure checks (never any pressure loss). You can make it work.

 

[exavid]

As long as the holes isn't big enough to cause a sudden failure and the bike has a TPMS I'd be willing to run on the plug while waiting for a replacement. When I needed new tires for my GT the dealer didn't have any. So we made a deal if I got some he'd mount them though the shop normally has a policy of mounting only tires they sell. That's why I ordered a pair of Michelen Power Pure tires. I've put 1200 miles on them so far and they are holding up well, better than my OEM tires did. They seem to behave well on dry, wet and frosty pavements.

 

[windplr]

As long as the holes isn't big enough to cause a sudden failure and the bike has a TPMS I'd be willing to run on the plug while waiting for a replacement. When I needed new tires for my GT the dealer didn't have any. So we made a deal if I got some he'd mount them though the shop normally has a policy of mounting only tires they sell. That's why I ordered a pair of Michelen Power Pure tires. I've put 1200 miles on them so far and they are holding up well, better than my OEM tires did. They seem to behave well on dry, wet and frosty pavements.

I'm thinking of trying the Michelins next. The dealer said there are some Pirelli's available, at least for the rear. Anyone tried them?

 

[davidh]

Been happy with both performance and life of Michelin City Grips after having used the Metzler's, Pirelli Diablos, and Michelin Power Pure.

 

[Snowdog]

BTW, if you know someone in the Boston area that has a Silverwing, I have a set of new Metzlers that I would sell cheap to get them out of my shed.

 

[Snowdog]

If you are a worrier, and want to save the tire, put a patch on the inside. Shops are all worried about liability these days, but, a properly plugged or patched tire should last for the working life of the tire. Personally, I would take the time to patch a relatively new tire (when I get home, a plug to get me there).