Punctures are one of the most common—and frustrating—issues faced by riders. But with the right setup and smart riding techniques, you can dramatically reduce the chances of a flat tyre, whether you're commuting, touring, or hitting the trails.
This guide covers how to reduce the risk of punctures through tyre pressure, tyre choice, added protection systems, and riding technique, using proven solutions trusted by the team at Electric Bikes Brisbane.
Under-inflated tyres are far more likely to suffer pinch flats, sidewall damage, or bead separation. Over-inflated tyres can feel harsh and lose traction.
We recommend checking your tyre pressure weekly, and always before longer rides.
| Use Case | Recommended Pressure (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Urban / Rail Trail | 40–55 PSI |
| Off-road / eMTB | 20–30 PSI (with inserts or tubeless) |
| Touring with Load | 50–60 PSI |
Pro tip: Heavier riders or loaded touring setups may benefit from the higher end of the pressure range.
Selecting the right tyre for your riding conditions plays a big role in reducing punctures.
One of the most puncture-resistant tyres in the world, ideal for commuting, rail trail, and touring. Features a 5mm thick SmartGuard layer.
Perfect for: Urban use, rail trail, towing kids or loads.
A versatile all-rounder tyre that balances off-road grip with on-road comfort. Great for light trail and mixed-surface adventure rides.
Perfect for: Gravel, rail trails, blue flow trails.
Built tough for eMTBs, offering aggressive tread and durable casing with support for low pressures and e-bike torque.
Perfect for: Trail, enduro, technical climbing.
If you're running traditional tubed tyres, consider these enhancements:
Thicker wall construction reduces the chance of thorns or glass causing a puncture.
🟢 Good for: Everyday use, especially on rougher paths.
These fit between your tyre and tube and add a tough foam barrier. Helps prevent pinch flats and improves ride comfort.
Great for: Touring, mixed terrain, light trail riders who want protection without going tubeless.
Tubeless tyres, when set up correctly, use liquid sealant to automatically plug small punctures as you ride.
Lower pressures = more grip and comfort
No tubes = fewer pinch flats
Sealant plugs small punctures automatically
Additions like CushCore or other rim inserts can offer sidewall support, protect rims, and allow even lower pressures without burping or flats.
Recommended for: eMTB riders, adventure tourers, or anyone riding off-road regularly.
Your riding habits play a big role in avoiding punctures:
🚫 Avoid riding in gutters or debris-strewn road edges, where sharp objects collect
🪨 Off-road, stay light on the bike when riding over roots, rocks, and logs—aim to "float" the front wheel and reduce square-edge impacts
🧱 Hop or roll gently off curbs rather than dropping with weight on the rear wheel
🔍 Scan ahead for glass, thorns, or sharp gravel and adjust your line early
The smoother and lighter you ride, the longer your tyres will last—especially on e-bikes carrying extra weight and torque.
We can recommend and fit the best tyres, tubes, or insert setup for your riding style and bike.
👉 Click here to book a puncture prevention service
| Tip | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Maintain tyre pressure | Reduces pinch flats |
| Use terrain-appropriate tyres | More durable, less vulnerable |
| Upgrade tubes or add protection | Adds barrier against sharp objects |
| Go tubeless (for eMTB/adventure) | Auto-seals small punctures |
| Ride smoothly and avoid harsh hits | Less chance of impact damage |