Things to know about using CO2 cartridges

Every cyclist will probably have to change a flat tire at some point, even though it can be a pain in the neck. While it's a good idea to keep a hand pump on hand in case of a flat, many riders find that the size and uncomfortable shape of a hand pump makes them choose a CO2 cartridge and inflator instead.

Compared to a manual pump, CO2 cartridges are substantially lighter and smaller, and they go right into a saddlebag or jersey pocket.The compressed air cartridges are easy to use and can quickly and easily inflate a flat tire. If you use a hand pump instead of a cartridge, the disadvantage is that once the air is expelled from the cartridge, there is no turning back. Because of this, it's critical that everyone who uses CO2 cartridges or is considering switching to them understands how to use them properly. Otherwise, a flat tire could result in a long walk in your cycling shoes, a call to your significant other for a ride, or worse, a cab trip home.

Knowing the basics before we begin

Here are a few fundamental terms that can aid you in understanding the method described below.

CO2 cartridge:A compact metal CO2 cartridge.

The device that takes a CO2 cartridge, connects to the tube valve, and inflates the tire is known as a CO2 inflator. To release CO2, CO2 cartridges can either press into or screw into CO2 inflators.

Depending on whether they are threaded or not, CO2 cartridges can be classified as either threaded or unthreaded. While non-threaded CO2 cartridges simply push in, threaded cartridges screw into the inflator head. Make sure the CO2 cartridges match the inflator no matter which choice you choose. Non-threaded cartridges are less common and less reliable than threaded ones.

'Flow Control': Some CO2 inflators and pumps contain a 'flow control' that regulates the amount of CO2 delivered into the tire. It's all or nothing for devices lacking flow control.

PSI: The pressure measurement unit. 'Pounds per Square Inch' is the unit of measurement.

Preparation

We'll go right to using a CO2 cartridge to inflate the tire, but you may read our article on How to Change a Flat to learn how to change a tire in just six simple steps.

Initially, inflate your tube before mounting it on the wheel. This will give the tube some shape before you try to insert it into the wheel. If you have a flow control CO2 inflator, you can carefully inject a small amount of air into it instead of blowing into it like you would a balloon.

It's crucial to make sure there are no remnants of the tube after you have reattached the tube to the wheel and installed the tire. To ensure that the tube won't be pinched when inflated, work your way around the wheel while placing the tire into the rim well.

It's also important to keep in mind that after the CO2 is released, the cartridge and inflator head will get very cold. For this reason, it's wise to wear gloves or purchase CO2 cartridges with protective sleeves to keep your hands warm.

The inflationary cycle

A few seconds will pass fast during the inflating process. Depending on the size of the cartridge and how efficiently you complete the process, each CO2 cartridge can achieve a different tyre pressure. Typically, CO2 cartridges come in 16g, 20g, and 25g sizes. For a guide of inflation rates dependent on cartridge size, see the table below.

You might need to limit how much CO2 you release into the tube. The larger cartridges run the risk of overinflating and bursting the tube. Keep your hands on the tire and keep an eye on it as you pump up the pressure. When it becomes firm, you should cease inflating. When performing it by touch or sight, it might be challenging to determine just how much inflation is excessive, but the more you do it, the simpler it will get to determine when the pressure is at the proper level.

Removing the empty CO2 cartridge from the CO2 inflator after you've completed inflating your tire will allow you to either store it in your jersey pocket or dispose of it in the nearby trash can. Keep it off the side of the road where someone else might pick it up.

Your tire will most likely be flat (or close to being flat) the next day because CO2 leaks out of tires more quickly than air. This happens because CO2 is a gas. For this reason, remember to pump it up before your next ride.