Pretend for a moment that you’re not an expert flat repair person, and that you barely know how to work a quick release. For that rider, or anyone else who doesn’t want to deal with the hassle of repairing a flat tire, it looks like things could be getting a lot easier in the near future. A new company by the name of patchnride has taken on the flat tire, and is offering the simplest method of getting air back in your tubes without ever having to remove the tire. The secret lies in a clever device that “injects” a patch into the tire. Once inserted, the tire can be reinflated and you’re on your way in about 60 seconds.
See how it works after the break…
Using their leak detector liquid, which is applied with a cloth, remaining air in the tire causes the hole to bubble showing where the leak is. We’re assuming you would want to remove any bits of glass or thorns before proceeding. The patchnride tool uses a single use Patch Pod with versions for specific uses – mountain, road, etc. The tool itself will measure about 5 inches long and weigh 100g , and uses a needle to insert the patch into the tire. Since the patch goes between the tire and the tube, we’re assuming that the patch has adhesive on the tube side, and inflating the tube presses it against the patch, sealing the hole. All of this can be done with the tire still on the rim, meaning it seems like the perfect repair for tubular tires especially during a race. Capable of patching holes up to 3mm in diameter, patchnride can be used multiple times on the same tire as long as the hole isn’t in the same place.
Currently available for pre-order, patchnride won’t be available until this Fall. Your $30 pre-order includes a tool, two Patch Pods and two Leak Detectors plus shipping. No word on how much replacement Patch Pods will cost in the future.