Tube problems
 

(note: I am new to cycling so please forgive my ignorance and help me learn)
I bought a Giant road bike back in December(I can't remember the exact model because I had to ride my cruiser to campus today due to the problem I am about to state) with 650 wheels. I recently had to buy new tubes (about two weeks ago) because the tubes that came with the bike ended up puncturing while I was trying to pump the tires. So I've started to utilize a new technique of putting the spickets at the 12 o'clock position before putting on the pump, pumping to the desired psi, then taking the wheel b/t my legs and using both hands to pull the pump straight off the spicket. Beforehand, I was jiggling the pump on and off the pump, which I suspected was the original culprit. However, this morning, I just punctured the tube again ... and ended up being late to class but that doesn't matter. I am just enraged that I just spent $32 just two weeks ago for new tubes and that I am going to have to spend another $16. What am I doing wrong? Any tips?

Leilani

P.S. Since it seems that I would be changing my tubes quite often, would anyone mind showing me how to change them? I've seen people change them several times but I am quite wary of doing it myself.

I don't think anyone here can SHOW you other than describe it in text, but if someone has a video....? Besides its ALOT to type.

There are many resources on the NET to learn how to change tubes, fix flats, etc. Best choices (in my humble opinion) are:

www.sheldonbrown.com

www.parktool.com - go to 'repair help' top right on the website

As for your tube problem, is the hole near the valve (spicket)? What type of valve is it - does it look like a car valve?

If the hole is near the valve then it seems as if you are a little....rough with mounting and dismounting the pump, thereby tearing the tube. That leads me to the next question - what type of pump is it? Does it have a lever at the pump head that you have to open and close to mount and dismount the pump?

Another possiblity is that when remounting the tire you are pinching the tube.

Another possibility is the absence of a rim strip. A stip of rubber or plastic on the rim that covers the sprocket holes to avoid a puncture in the tube.

I guess it comes down to, where is the hole in the tube? Knowing that will give a better clue as to what is happening.

+1 Sheldon da man