No more flat tyres: a trial of a tyre insert for wheelchairs

Abstract

Most wheelchairs are fitted with pneumatic tyres. Deflated or punctured tyres may result in secondary brake failure and make wheelchairs difficult to propel. 'Flexel' is a nonpneumatic alternative to conventional innertubes. We have compared this punctureproof tyre insert with a pneumatic inner tube in 50 wheelchairs. The pneumatic tyres needed regular attention (reflation on 237 occasions, 7 punctures and 4 leaking valves) and were associated with secondary brake failure (130 episodes). In marked contrast the tyre insert was virtually maintenance free (readjustment on 2 tyre rims). There were no episodes of secondary brake failure with the insert. The tyre insert improves wheelchair safety and is likely to reduce maintenance costs.