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Why Does My Tire Bulge?

Question: When I install clincher tires, they often have a minor bulge. It isn’t noticeable on the road, but I can feel it when the bike is on the trainer.  The wheel is round, but it looks like the tube doesn’t inflate evenly. Any tips? — Hal N.

Coach Fred Matheny Replies: You may be using tubes that are larger or thicker than your tires can accommodate, causing folds or creases that result in bulges. Try lighter tubes with a smaller width.

Be careful when mounting tires to get the tube smoothly and uniformly arranged inside before you inflate. Put a little talcum powder on the tube so it can slide inside the tire and seat properly.

Also, after inflation be sure the bead line is equidistant from the rim all the way around on both sides. This is the thin line molded low on the tire sidewall. If one section tips below the rim or bulges up, the tire will feel lumpy.

Finally, some tires aren’t perfectly round. If nothing else works, try a different brand.

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