Is this tire done?

[xeladragon]

Noticed a nice little cut -- L-shaped, about 1cm in total length -- in my Challenge Grifo clincher front tire today.

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-mjjAS-gz-Wc/Tn-pvzj3BkI/AAAAAAAABFg/uk4SMd9KdLA/s640/2011-09-25%25252018.03.57.jpg

I think the only reason why I'm still able to ride the tire without flatting is because I'm using STOP Flats2 Tire Liners (http://www.rei.com/product/787749/stop-flats2-tire-liners-700-x-28-35). Anyway, what's the general consensus? Are these safe to continue riding or are they bound to fail sooner rather than later? I just don't wanna be stranded several miles from home/work during my winter commute with a flat that a new tube can't fix.

[dr50470]

I've been able to deflate the tire and super glue the cut....if its not into the threads should hold fine.

[xeladragon]

I've been able to deflate the tire and super glue the cut....if its not into the threads should hold fine.Cut goes through the tire.

[Dave B]

Duct tape on the inside then fill he gash with rubber cement or super glue.

Should be just fine.

[BumbleBeeDave]

. . . with road tires. Deflate, super glue, use some spring loaded clamps on the tire to force the sides of the cut together while it wets.

But that's only if it's a cut. If it's a gash and material has been taken out I wouldn't try it.

I guess it also depends on when it lets go--during a cross race speeds may not be that high. On my road tires if it lets go while I'm descending a hill at 40mph, then we have a bit more of a problematic result . . . :eek:

BBD

I've been able to deflate the tire and super glue the cut....if its not into the threads should hold fine.

[xeladragon]

Good recommendations... thanks!

[dr50470]

through and through.....time to trash it or save for emergency use.

[rab]

Something to consider - Shoe Goo:

http://eclecticproducts.com/shoegoo.htm

This is going to be better than super glue, which is a much more brittle material when cured. Plus, the shoe goo will wear better and probably form a better bond. And it is pretty cheap.

Another thought (haven't tried it) would be some silicone rtv like you use for sealing tiles, windows etc.

Good luck with it.

[xeladragon]

Something to consider - Shoe Goo:

http://eclecticproducts.com/shoegoo.htm

Yep... plan on picking some up at REI when I get the chance. :)

[keevon]

Here's what I would do:

1) Glue tread back together with super glue / Shoo Goo.

2) Glue 3 separate layers of Tyvek over the gash on the inside of the tire using rubber cement. Each layer should be larger than the one before. This will reinforce the casing where the threads were cut.

3) Install tire on rear wheel, just in case it fails. Inspect periodically.

If this was a sidewall cut, you'd be screwed.

[LouDeeter]

I'd fill like recommended, then watch it closely and if a bump appears, trash it. If you plan to be on a very important ride far from civilization, get a new tire. But, face it, you are going to have to replace the tire eventually, so might as well do it now and have the peace of mind.

[rwsaunders]

Something to consider - Shoe Goo:

http://eclecticproducts.com/shoegoo.htm

This is going to be better than super glue, which is a much more brittle material when cured. Plus, the shoe goo will wear better and probably form a better bond. And it is pretty cheap.

Another thought (haven't tried it) would be some silicone rtv like you use for sealing tiles, windows etc.

Good luck with it.

I used that product when I ran in college back in the late 70's and it was awesome...city streets and sidewalks were tough on training shoes. I didn't know that they still made it.

[CunegoFan]

I used that product when I ran in college back in the late 70's and it was awesome...city streets and sidewalks were tough on training shoes. I didn't know that they still made it.
I think the product can survive purely on what is sold to skateboarders.

I have used it with mixed success. If it sticks in the hole then it works fine, but if it doesn't then... I would boot the tire well, use it only on the rear, and periodically check it.

[rab]

Yeah, the shoe goo can be great when it works but I think surface prep is pretty critical in achieving a higher success rate.

Maybe try prepping the area by rinsing with water, then a little alcohol to try and ensure the area is as clean as possible to allow the best bonding?