Getting a puncture at speed

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pubrunner

Legendary Member
On the few occcasions that I've had puncture, my tyres 700C x 23 deflate very quickly.

Today I was coasting down a very long and steep hill at nearly 40mph; the following thoughts entered my head . . . . . . .

'What would happen if I punctured now ?'
'What would happen to the wheel ?'
'Would I be able to stay on the bike/what would happen to me ?'
 

Tynan

Veteran
Location
e4
front or rear and how fast is an issue I suggest

I had the front deflate rapidly as I slowed from speed for a left hand turn across cherry blossom (the final straw for the ultra gators)

I ended up hitting the road rather hard
 

Bodhbh

Guru
Was thinking the same myself riding down the duel carriageway over the weekend, not really the place you want to end up on the floor suddenly - and lots of glass, metallic junk and other car debris around the side of the road to give you a flat. Did get one in the end but on rear tyre and slow enough to stop.
 

swee'pea99

Legendary Member
"front or rear and how fast" - those are the issues right enough. Rear, and you've nothing much to worry about...even a blowout is generally controllable, if a tad unnerving. Front and slow...you should be alright, as long as you notice early. Front and rapid...now that's where things get exciting, and in truth, there's not a lot you can do but pray. (Got one recently while playing in the traffic....Ariel's wonderful stuff isn't it?)
 

yenrod

Guest
>'What would happen if I punctured now ?'
'What would happen to the wheel ?'
'Would I be able to stay on the bike/what would happen to me ?'

---

Exact thoughts go thru' my head when doing a 'fair lick - at times...
 

gavintc

Guru
Location
Southsea
It is one of the scenarios that thankfully is quite rare, and best not to consider too deeply when descending at speed. I have had a front go at about 20 mph and that was completely controllable. I am not so certain that it would be the same at 40 mph.
 
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