Flat tires aren’t just for traditional bikes; electric bikes and scooters can get them too. Luckily, the steps to fix one are almost the same. If your motor is in the rear wheel (a hub-drive setup), you’ll just need to disconnect a few components before starting a standard flat repair. Hub-drive motors are common on e-bikes and e-scooters for both kids and adults, so if that sounds like what you have, you’re in the right spot!
This guide walks you through those extra steps for rear-wheel flats. If your flat is on the front wheel—or you have a mid-drive motor near the pedals—you can skip ahead to our regular guide on how to fix a flat tire. Just be sure to switch the power off before you begin.
1. Power off your electric bike or scooter.
This one’s crucial: make sure your ride is switched off before attempting to repair a flat tire. Remove the battery to ensure the motor can’t accidentally turn on. Plus, this makes the bike or scooter lighter and easier to work with.
2. Lower the kickstand
The kickstand helps stabilize your ride while you’re working.
3. Disconnect the rear motor cable.
Look near the rear axle for a barrel-shaped connector where the motor cable plugs in. This connection is designed to stay snug while riding, so you may need to pull firmly to unplug it.
4. Detach cable fasteners.
To allow the rear wheel to be removed, you’ll need to remove any fasteners holding the motor cable in place on the frame near the rear wheel. Any cable fasteners towards the front of the bike can stay put.
If a zip tie secures the cable, cut it off and discard it. Be careful not to cut the cable itself.
If there are C-shaped clips holding the cable, carefully remove them and set them aside.
5. Fix the flat tire.
Before completing the last few steps here, you can follow our standard guide to fixing a flat tire: remove the wheel, replace or repair the tube, and reinstall everything.
6. Reconnect the motor cable.
With the wheel back on, align the markings on the motor cable connector and plug it in securely. Don’t force it though — if it doesn’t go in smoothly, check the alignment and try again.
7. Fasten the cable.
Use a fresh zip tie or replace the original C-clips to attach the cable to the frame.
That’s it! Once everything’s reconnected and the battery is back in place, give it a quick test to make sure the motor runs smoothly. With the flat fixed and your electric ride powered up, you’re ready to roll again!
Need a hand? We’re happy to help, just contact us.
