The accompanying sketch shows a handy device for mending punctures in bicycle tires. It consists of a common darning needle of a large size and with a large eye, with its point inserted into a wooden handle. There are two pins also in the handle, projecting from opposite sides, and the top of the needle is cut off, leaving the end of the eye open.

To mend a puncture, stretch elastic rubber bands over the pins and through the slot in the end of the needle as tightly as possible until judgment shows that there is enough rubber to fill the puncture. Then insert needle and rubber through puncture in tire, throw the rubber off the pins and withdraw the needle. The rubber being tightly stretched will contrad when released, filling the puncture and leaving a small lump inside and outside of tire. This will wear off outside in a very short time. It is advisable to ream the hole smooth before applying the rubber. This can be done by heating the needle with a match and then searing the edges of the hole.

Fig. 351 - A tool for repairing punctures.