The Park Tool VP-1 Vulcanizing Patch Kit repairs punctured inner tubes with six patches, sandpaper, and a tube of vulcanizing fluid, packed in a small box.

What it's for

This kit fixes a punctured inner tube so you can keep using it. Park Tool explains that vulcanizing creates a molecular bond between the patch and the tube, which makes a strong, reliable repair. The box is small enough to live in a saddle bag.

Compatibility

• Fits: butyl rubber and latex inner tubes
• Does not fit: tubeless tire bodies
• Does not fit: thermoplastic polyurethane tubes such as Tubolito or Schwalbe Aerothan
• How to check yours: standard black tubes are butyl. Brightly colored, very thin plastic feeling tubes are usually thermoplastic and need their own patches

Setup and installation

• Step 1: find the hole and roughen the area around it with the sandpaper
• Step 2: spread a thin layer of vulcanizing fluid over the puncture area
• Step 3: let the fluid dry
• Step 4: remove the backing from the patch and press it on firmly, paying attention to the edges
• Step 5: check the bond after one to two minutes

Care and service

• Fluid life: once the tube of vulcanizing fluid has been punctured open, the fluid dries out over time. Check it before you rely on the kit

In the box

• 2 round patches, 25 mm
• 2 round patches, 19 mm
• 2 oval patches, 35 x 25 mm
• 1 sheet of sandpaper, 70 x 35 mm
• 1 tube of vulcanizing fluid

Specs

• Box dimensions: 70 x 47.6 x 19 mm
• Weight: 17 g
• Park Tool item number: VP-1