James van de Kamp is one of the new additions to the Norco Team for 2010. He was recently interviewed by pinkbike on his career so far and his goals for the upcoming season.

Check out the interview and video of James at pinkbike.com

It doesn't happen often but every once in a while I will admit I get caught on the trail without a tube. Not because I didn't have one, but because I either gave it away or flatted more than once on a ride. I am slightly ashamed to have admitted this but yes, it does happen. This past weekend I went out riding in Port Moody BC with a friend and it happened to be one of those rides. After Eric flatted once, I followed suit. That was no biggie as we both had a tube, but then Eric tried for round two. Three flats, two tubes, 0 patches.

As Eric got ready to start hiking I made a suggestion, one that is simple, easy and quite effective. Tie a knot in the tube and ride out. That is right, this trick is super simple and low tech but can be the difference between a long hike and finishing a great ride.



To fix this flat, you will need to start by finding the hole. Once you do, tie a knot with the hole at the end which is tucked through the knot loop. Pull the knot nice and tight to be sure that it won't come undone once inflated.



You will see that the tube is significantly smaller in diameter now that it has been tied. You will need to insert the valve, then stretch the tube around the rim before attempting to seat the tire.



Once you get the tube around the rim you can start to work the tire onto the rim. You should be careful that the last bit you are trying to seat is not at the knot as this area has significantly more bulk around it and could be difficult to work with.



Now that the tire is on, you can re-inflate.I wouldn't suggest inflating to more than 40psi as the tube is significantly stretched and fatigued. This is not a long term fix but should be enough to get you home. Once you start riding you will likely feel the knot as a bump in your tire. It may be a little rough but it sure beats walking.



If you have your doubts, give it a try.

Dustan

That is right executive chef, author and TV host Anthony Sedlak could be cooking a 10 course meal for you and nine friends. Not only that, it is all happening in your kitchen. This Feb. 1, Anthony is auctioning off the dining experience of a lifetime and one sweet Norco CRR2 High Performance road bike. Get the complete scoop at cyclebetes.com or you can email kim@cyclebetes.com with any other questions you may have.

Bid on the package at: ebay.ca