AVOID PUNCTURES – HOW TO KEEP CYCLING WITHOUT WORRIES
20,000 km without a single puncture. As an adventurous cyclist, the Dutch CUBE Stores ambassador and gravel expert Levey van der Voort rides thousands of kilometres every year. From rugged gravel trails in the Ardennes to endless roads across Southern Europe. Including his journey from Portugal to Norway. Over the years, he has learned that avoiding punctures is not about luck, but about preparation, maintenance and riding smart. In this blog, Levey shares his key tips to become the king (or queen) of avoiding punctures. Because trust me: nothing is more frustrating than a flat tyre.
1. The right tyre pressure: your first line of defence
Tyre pressure is probably one of the most underestimated factors. Riding with too little pressure increases the risk of pinch flats and rim strikes. Too much pressure, on the other hand, means less grip and a higher chance of damage on rough terrain.
Before every ride, I always check my tyre pressure. On gravel, I deliberately run slightly lower pressures for extra comfort and grip, but always within the recommended range stated on the tyre itself. This becomes even more important when riding fully loaded on multi-day trips. More weight = more pressure. That said, I would still rather run slightly too hard than too soft. A good floor pump with a pressure gauge at home and a compact hand pump for on the go are essentials in my opinion (I personally use the ACID Floor Pump Race Blue).
2. Reliable inner tubes and a strong tyre setup
While many gravel riders these days prefer tubeless, I’m personally not a fan. For my long journeys across Europe, I consciously choose reliable inner tubes combined with strong, dependable tyres.
Why? For me, it’s all about simplicity and control. Inner tubes are available almost everywhere, quick to replace and free from the hassle of fluctuating pressures, sealant or leaks that refuse to seal properly. Especially when cycling through remote areas, I want a setup I can repair without even thinking about it.
I ride durable gravel tyres with solid puncture protection, such as the SCHWALBE G-ONE series. They offer plenty of grip across mixed terrain while protecting against sharp stones and thorns. What’s important:
- Choose tyres with puncture protection suited to your terrain
- High-quality inner tubes are essential
- Replace worn, dried-out or cracked tyres immediately
- Regularly inspect your rim tape
- Always carry at least one (preferably two) spare inner tubes
This system has worked flawlessly for me for years. No mess, no surprises.
3. Regular tyre maintenance
After long rides, I always inspect my tyres. Small cuts, sharp stones or bits of glass are removed straight away. The longer debris stays lodged in the tyre, the greater the chance it will eventually cause a puncture. I also keep an eye on tyre wear. A worn tyre is simply more vulnerable. Long story short: replace your tyres regularly.
4. Ride thoughtfully: learn to read the terrain
This might be the most important tip of all: look ahead. On gravel, you learn to “read” the terrain. Where are the sharp stones? Which line looks the cleanest? Sometimes a tiny adjustment is enough to avoid a nasty impact.
On descents, I also carefully choose my line. Use momentum, avoid cutting corners and stay out of the inside line where all the debris collects. Even in urban environments, sharp objects are everywhere if you pay attention. I’m always cautious around bus stops, bins, benches, train stations and public squares. Your surroundings often reveal potential hazards for your tyres.
Finally, thorn bushes are a major culprit, so learn to recognise them. I always avoid blackberry bushes and hawthorn.
5. Parking your bike
Something many riders overlook, but which can also affect punctures: how you park your bike. Don’t just place your bike in the verge without checking the ground or surrounding bushes first. During a quick café stop or toilet break, you can easily pick up a puncture. Avoid glass and debris on the ground. And before putting your wheel into a bike rack, make sure it won’t damage the tyre.
6. Sometimes, bad luck happens
No matter how good your preparation is, there’s never a 100% guarantee. That’s why I always carry a minimal repair kit with me, so I can always get home safely. Mine includes:
- Tyre levers (plastic)
- Mini puncture repair kit
- Spare inner tube (even when riding tubeless)
- Compact hand pump
- Multitool
Because I often ride remote gravel routes, I never want to depend on roadside assistance or a bike shop. Always make sure you have the essentials with you.