Park Tool VP-1 Vulcanizing Patch Kit (Single)

I never experienced any issues with my tubes after using this patch

I recently bought a new bicycle and soon after had a puncture. At first I was skeptical of puncture repair kits because something as small as these patches seemed to be too good to be true to withstand the pressure in the tube. But I decided to give it a try and as I used this vulcanizing patch for the very first time it changed my views on this product.First, the kit box is very compact (about the size of a chewing gum package), which I like because you can put it in a bag or even a pocket and take it with you on a trip with a pair of levers, and you don't have to worry about getting a your tube punctured. With this kit, a puddle of water and a pocket-sized pump it is possible to even fix your tube in a few minutes at a road curb. I am a complete novice at changing tubes, but it took me around 7-10 minutes to fix the tube and be on the bike again.It is very easy to use the kit: once you determine where your puncture is, remove any object that caused it (if applicable), sand the spot around it with a sand paper provided, apply the vulcanizing glue evenly around the spot (about the size of a quarter around the hole), let it dry for up to a minute, and place one of the patches (whichever shape fits best) orange side up and press firmly for a minute or two. That's it - now you should be able to place your tube back onto the wheel and pump it with air. Make sure to sand the punctured spot well so that the area is smooth and even, having no grooves or rubber seams, otherwise these minor bumps can promote air channel formation under the patch when air pressure is applied.Overall, I think it is a pretty useful tool to relieve you from the hassle of buying new tubes all the time. I am not sure whether this vulcanizing kit is good enough to "treat" big holes, but it surely gets you covered for small punctures, such as the ones from a nail, malevolent awl or needle puncture.

I wonder how long the glue will last before drying up? Time will tell.

The plastic box measures 2 5/8" Height, 1 3/8" Width, and 3/4" Depth. This is great because you can store it virtually anywhere. They easily fit into my girlfriend's notoriously small pockets with room to spare. The box itself is made of blue transparent plastic. The clips seem to hold the container snug, but I wouldn't open it often unless you are actually using it. I would also advise against putting more than a few pounds of weight on it as it may break.The patches are generously sized. The larger rectangular patches (2) are 1 7/8" by 1" while the small (2) and large (2) circular patches are 3/4" and 15/16" in diameter respectively. If you have a hole too large for these patches - you need a new tube.I haven't had an opportunity to use one yet. Hopefully I wont. If I do I'll update this review with the details.3/27 Update:It looks like someone thought my review wasn't helpful. Probably because I hadn't tested one. Grouch.Anyway, I lent my kit to a friend in need. He's not a genius. Don't take that statement lightly. He said it was easy and it works perfect. That was a week ago. He hasn't bought a new tube.I had to patch a tube recently and it worked great. You just sandpaper around the puncture, apply some vulcanizing glue, and slap the patch on. Holds like a charm. I only used it for about 6 miles, though.

I had two bicycle tubes that leaked. I patched them with an old patch kit and they leaked as soon as i blew them up. I removed the old patches and sealed them up with these. They are thick and stretchy and have worked so far on both tubes. Be sure to scratch the area with the sand-paper like sheet, included. Also, use a thin layer of glue and let it dry for a few minutes before applying the patch, as per the instructions. It's a small kit, but there are several different sizes included.It fits nicely in my saddle bag. I probably should have rated the product with 5 stars. The only reason I didn't was because I think there should be a few more patches included. I hope this helps you make a decision if you are considering this product. It's good and I would recommend it to a friend.I might even get another one if I use up all the patches.