How to Deal with a Flat Tire on an Electric Bicycle

A flat tire can turn an enjoyable electric bike ride into a frustrating setback. Whether you’re commuting to work or enjoying a weekend trail, knowing how to handle a flat tire can save time, money, and stress. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to deal with a flat tire on your electric bicycle — from identifying the cause to fixing it yourself or finding the right help.

Why Do Flat Tires Happen?

Before diving into the fix, it's helpful to understand the common causes of flat tires:

• Sharp objects: Nails, glass, thorns, or debris can pierce the tire.

• Underinflated tires: Low pressure causes more friction and pinching.

• Overinflated tires: High pressure can make tires more susceptible to bursting.

• Worn-out tires or tubes: Older materials are more prone to damage.

Step 1: Identify the Flat Tire

Stop riding as soon as you suspect a flat. Continuing to ride on a flat can damage the wheel, rim, or motor. Check which tire is flat — front or rear — and inspect it visually or by gently pressing down with your hand.

Tip: Rear wheels on e-bikes are often more difficult to remove due to the motor and wiring, so it’s good to know what you’re working with.

Step 2: Decide – Repair or Replace?

You have two options:

• Patch the inner tube (if the hole is small and you're equipped)

• Replace the tube entirely (ideal for larger punctures or faster fixes)

If you’re on the road, patching can get you home. If you're at home or in a workshop, replacing is more reliable.

Step 3: Tools You May Need

Make sure you have:

• Tire levers

• Spare tube or patch kit

• Air pump or CO₂ inflator

• Wrench or multitool (especially for rear motor wheel bolts)

• Gloves (optional, but helpful)

For e-bikes with hub motors or internal wiring, you may also need:

• A 15mm wrench (for axle nuts)

• Knowledge of how to unplug motor cables (Refer to your e-bike manual or ask the seller)

Step 4: Remove the Wheel

For the front wheel:

1. Flip the bike upside down or place it on a bike stand.

2. If there’s a quick release, open it. If not, use a wrench to loosen the axle nuts.

3. Pull the wheel out.

For the rear wheel (with motor):

1. Disconnect the motor cable carefully.

2. Loosen the nuts or bolts on the axle.

3. Carefully remove the wheel, avoiding damage to the motor wire.

EBYCCO has instructional videos on how to remove the front and remove rear wheels.

Step 5: Remove the Tire and Find the Puncture

1. Insert tire levers between the tire and the rim, and work around the edge to remove one side of the tire.

2. Pull out the inner tube.

3. Inflate the tube and listen for hissing or look for bubbles if submerged in water to locate the hole.

4. Check the inside of the tire for nails, thorns, or sharp debris — remove any found.

Step 6: Patch or Replace the Tube

To patch:

• Dry and roughen the area around the hole.

• Apply glue and wait for it to get tacky.

• Press the patch over the hole firmly.

• Let it sit for a few minutes before reinserting.

To replace:

• Simply insert the new tube into the tire, ensuring it’s not twisted or pinched.

Step 7: Reassemble and Inflate

1. Tuck the tube into the tire and push the tire bead back onto the rim using your hands or tire levers.

2. Inflate the tire to the recommended PSI (usually printed on the tire sidewall).

3. Check that the tire is seated evenly all around.

Step 8: Reinstall the Wheel

• Slide the wheel back into the frame.

• Tighten axle nuts securely or close the quick-release skewer.

• Reconnect the motor cable (if applicable).

• Test spin the wheel to make sure it moves freely without rubbing.

Step 9: Prevent Future Flats

Here are some tips to reduce the chances of future flat tires:

• Check tire pressure regularly.

• Inspect tires for embedded debris or signs of wear.

• Use puncture-resistant tires or inner tubes.

• Install tire liners for extra protection.

• Avoid riding over glass, sharp rocks, or construction debris.

What If You’re Not Comfortable Fixing It?

Not everyone feels comfortable fixing a flat — especially on an electric bike. If you’re unsure:

• Bring the bike to a local e-bike repair shop.

• Call a mobile repair service.

• If under warranty, contact your manufacturer or seller for support.

Some e-bike brands (like Ebycco) may offer support resources or tutorials specific to your model, which is especially helpful if the rear motor is involved.

Final Thoughts

Getting a flat tire is never fun, but with the right knowledge and tools, it’s a problem you can solve on the spot or prevent in the future. Learning how to fix a flat yourself not only saves time and money but also boosts your confidence as an electric bike rider.

In the case of a flat tire, you usually only need to repair or replace the inner tube. You can find inner tubes and outer tubes of suitable sizes on Amazon or the original bicycle supplier. General specifications include 26"×4.0, 24"×4.0. But please remember to find the foreign object on the outer tube and remove it, otherwise it will still puncture the inner tube.