Do i need to patch the tire on a flat bike tire?

Question

I punctured my tire on a ride 4 miles from home (didnt have a patch kit b/c i figured it would be okay since it was only my 2nd trip so i ran it back for 4 miles)...do i just patch or replace the innertube? or do i need to do something w/ the tire as well? it has a very small puncture in it. thanks

Answer 1

A patch should do it, but check the tire to see if there is anything in it.

Answer 2

Just patch or replace the inner tube.  The tire doesn't need to be air tight, so punctures don't matter.

Answer 3

The tire should be OK, unless the hole appears to have damaged the cords in the tire casing.   To be safe, you COULD apply a patch to the inside of the tire to prevent foreign objects from working their way inside.