Originally Posted by Applehead57
I've had a string of flat tires this year, so I've learned more about tubes, wheels & spokes than I ever wanted to. I hadn't had a flat in 30 years before this.
I've discovered my bike has crappy wheels, so:
(1) rim strips are required.
(2) proper tire pressure is required to prevent pinch flats.
(3) keep your spokes the proper tension, they break, and un-true your wheel.
(4) try not to use tire levers if physically possible, otherwise be very careful not to puncture the tube.
(5) smooth off any rough edges on the wheel that will touch the tube, emory cloth works well.
I happy to report that since 07-20-04 I have not had a flat tire. Of course I may have just jinxed myself, but following many of the tips posted above seemed to have solved my issues.