Note that a bead breaker is NOT needed for tube-type rims, but could be very useful for tubeless RIMS. I specify RIMS because tubeless TIRES are often used on tube-type rims, and there is no difficulty breaking the bead there.
However tubeless RIMS have an extra ridge just inside the bead which helps prevent the bead from breaking in the event of a flat, and this is a good thing - but it makes it extremely difficult to break the bead by hand.
Having said that, most flats on a tubeless tire/RIM (with no tube) are repairable without breaking the bead at all. If the tire is badly damaged you may have to remove it to put a patch on the inside, and / or add a tube. Then the bead braker would be very useful!
With tube-type tires:
generally for long distance travel you will not run the tire pressure so low that there is a risk of pulling the valve stem, simply because with all the extra weight you must run higher tire pressure. Also note that the nut that is on the valve is supposed to be against the valve cap,
NOT the rim! Especially for low tire pressure applications such as off-road. If the lock nut is against the cap, you will see the valve stem go at an angle, instead of straight up, and can fix the problem. (deflate, break bead, rotate tire in the rim
If the nut is against the rim, the valve is locked in place and yes you can rip the stem right out of the tube.
Due to the bulk of tubes, I carry one spare tube for each wheel normally, and plan on replacing it immediately if I use it. You can also get valve stem patches from REMA that will replace the stem - and I do carry one.
If I was crossing the Sahara or similar remote/difficult conditions, I would probably double that for the rear.
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Grant Johnson
Share the Dream!
at:
www.HorizonsUnlimited.com
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