Getting a flat tire on an ATV is inevitable. So why not avoid the hassle and carry a tire repair kit with you every time you hit the trail? We prefer the CO2 kits that allow us to repair a small puncture and refill the tire so we can get motoring again. Here’s how they work.

Keep in mind that flat repair kits won’t solve every tire problem. If it’s a pinch flat, sidewall tear or massive injury, you’ll probably have to limp the quad back to base camp and have the hoop replaced.

But if it’s a smaller puncture, repair is simple and reliable with the right kit. They include a T-handle, reamer, plugs (which look like a bead of chocolate frosting!) and CO2 cartridges — you’ll need several to fill an ATV tire.

First locate the wound and clean the hole’s edge by shoving the reamer in and out of the hole. This clears out any debris and provides a clean surface for the plug to bond. Now load up the installation tool with a plug so equal lengths of the plug extend from the tool, push it into the hole and then pull it back out (you might have to use a few fingers to keep the plug inside the hole as you pull out the tool.

With the remaining plug sticking out of the hole, snip it off so about a half-inch remains and burn it with the flame from a lighter. This makes the plug flat and helps fill in the gaps to form a positive seal. If you leave too much plug hanging out of the wound it could catch on something and pull out, leaving you with another flat tire.

Now all that’s left is to fill the tire with air, or if you’re on the trail, use the CO2 cartridges and you’re on your way.