Trouble in 3's. Flat tires.
 

You guys know the old saying. "Trouble happens in three's". Well, this is absolutely true with me and flat tires. Does this happen to anyone else?

Last night, I'm on the train on the way home. Get to my stop, roll the bike off and notice a flat. So I changed it right there in the subway(new tube). This morning, I get my bike out of the storage room, flat tire. I was in a hurry to get to work, so I grabbed the backup ride. Walked out of work this p.m, flat tire on the backup! I was the last one there, so I was stranded. Walked to the bus stop for the LONG commute home.

It always happens in a similar fashion. I remember one time blowing 3 tubes in a row just trying to get one mounted. I was being very diligent about properly mounting, it just happened.

I'm always thorough when I get a flat. Try to located source, check for any debris. Inspect the tire, rim and rim tape. Mount new tube properly. I almost always use a new tube, so I don't have to deal with the hassle and risk of patching tubes (although that practice is getting quite expensive).

Just wondering if this happens to anyone else?

You're not going to like me. I'm 52, and I've never had a flat away from the house. Don't exactly know why, but riding around town, out on the bike paths....never had a flat. I carry the spare tubes and a pump, but I've never needed them.

You're right, I don't like you! :)

LOL!

Don't worry 'cause he just jinxed himself... :)

My dad, who's been in this game for about 40 years, recommends using corn starch on the tube. I've found it's worked - 1 flat in the past 2 years (~5k mi) - YMMV.

Also check to make sure your co-worker isn't letting air out of your tubes :p