A Flat Tire & A Lesson for Life
It was a crisp Sunday morning, and I had just filled up the tank of my Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 — black beast, freshly cleaned, roaring like a lion — ready to escape the city chaos and ride toward Garhmukteshwar via NH24.
Just as I crossed Dasna toll, I felt the handlebar twitch. A slight wobble. Then that dreaded flapping sound.
I pulled over, only to discover the nightmare of every rider — a completely flat rear tire.
Stuck at the Wrong Place, Wrong Time
There I was — no puncture repair shop nearby, sun starting to beat down, and traffic zooming past. I wasn’t just stranded, I was helpless. The worst part? It was entirely avoidable.
I had a portable tyre inflator at home. A reliable ₹2000 device that had already saved my Tata Harrier once. But I’d forgotten to pack it for the ride.
Lesson #1: Always Carry a Portable Tyre Inflator
Here’s why:
✅ Instant Air Boost
Even if it’s just a slow leak or pressure drop, a 12V or USB-powered inflator can get you back on the road in 2–3 minutes.
✅ Compact & Lightweight
Most modern inflators fit in your saddle bag or even a tank pouch. They’re not bulky and need no special tools.
✅ Saves Time & Money
You don’t need to wait for a mechanic or push your bike to the nearest shop — which may charge you 5× the usual fee just because you’re stranded.
✅ Works for Cars Too
I’ve used the same inflator for my Tata Harrier XTA Plus. One product, multiple uses.
What to Look for in a Good Inflator?
Here’s what I now recommend (and use religiously):
- Digital Pressure Gauge – to avoid overinflation
- Preset Auto Cut-off – inflates to set PSI and stops
- LED Light – helpful for night emergencies
- Metal Nozzle & Long Hose – for easy reach on bulky wheels
- Multiple Power Options – USB-C, 12V car charger, or built-in battery
The Ride Continued… Eventually
A kind passerby lent me his inflator (bless him!), and I was back on the road in 10 minutes — wiser, humbled, and promising myself this:
Never ride without a tyre inflator again.
Final Word
If you ride a Himalayan, Dominar, Xpulse, or even a daily-use Activa, a flat tire is not a question of if, but when. Don’t let a ₹2000 oversight ruin your ₹3 lakh ride — or worse, your day.
Pack smart. Ride prepared. Respect the road.