Over time, with practice, and based on the necessity, changing a tire becomes easier. Coach Mike, trying to keep it fun, included fixing a flat in a relay race Tuesday night.  The baton to be passed was, you guessed it, a tire lever!

From Coach Rick, “I wanted to pass along a good solid tire/tube video for the visual learners like me. I think most can benefit from watching and practicing the tire/tube changes.”

According to one student-athlete, “We practice changing tubes to be faster and more efficient in case a flat happens on the course. [See NICA Rule below.] Beyond NICA, practice helps you be prepared for on the trail emergencies.  It happens—pinch flats, punctures, chaffing, and wear-and-tear. Your options are walk it back, or repair and ride.  I only want to “hike a bike” over a technical section, not back to the car.” (Parker)

NICA Rule 4.6 Penalty for Outside Assistance

Student-athletes must repair their own flat tires and mechanical problems and carry their own tools, tubes, etc.  If outside assistance, parts, or tools, are provided, a 5- minute penalty will be assessed.  The student must report such an occurrence of outside assistance before the end of the protest period that precedes the award ceremony.  The student must report to a Scoring Official, Course Marshal, or other Race Official.  If a student does not self-report the penalty may be doubled. http://www.nationalmtb.org/wp-content/uploads/NICA-Rulebook.pdf