Dan, Sorry to hear about your flat experience. I too have had a flat and found the spare low on air. A very common problem. I was lucky and had a place to air it up. You are right about no place for the rear tire to ride. I have one of the luggage racks just for this reason.Have not had to use it for this yet, but is a great place to haul 20lb sack of dog food. Save your $, contact DMC Houston, get a luggage rack. When not in use ,it stores in the compartment in the front. As for the repairing of the spare have no idea. But your posting can serve as a warning to all CHECK THE AIR IN YOUR SPARE!!!!! Bruce Battles Vin# 06569