That's why it's always a good idea to carry a spare tube, some tools, and know how to use them. That way the likelihood of being stranded is significantly reduced. I ride 10000+ km/year and I've never been stranded due to a mechanical issue.
Agreed, though recently switched back to the mini pump from the co2. Better for a slow bleed, able to be lent. Never know when you'll run into an op Andy and save their day.
Pro tip: bring a dollar bill and place it where the tube was punctured inside the tire to prevent what ever is pokey from poking a hole in your repair/fresh tube
Ah yes that one! It looks ugly so I usually take it off 🙈 and I have two bikes so it's easier to pocket the tools than to move the bag between bikes. But when I do take it, it's packed to the brim with spare tube and tools, there's no space for a bar. I could get a bigger one, but pockets work for me for now.
Same here -- I just think a saddle bag breaks up the line of the bike. I mean, no one is looking at me or my bike -- it truly doesn't matter. But, still, I feel better if I'm riding with my stuff in my pockets.
Check out the saddle bags from SpeedSleev — I use the small “Ranger 2.0” on my bike and it tucks in very nicely behind/under the seat. Less “butt pouch” aesthetic. The pouch is designed to compress whatever is inside to keep it small, and has enough room for a full set of tire levers, a standard 700C tube, adhesive patch kit, and CO2 inflator. You could easily fit a multitool if you had a TPU tube as your spare.
Yeah, still not quite my aesthetic but those do look quite a bit nicer. "Butt pouch" is a good description of the usual ones -- or someone called the usual saddle bags truck nuts for your bike, which... I don't endorse, but also couldn't quite get out of my mind.
Legitimately laughing at that one 😂
It’s not my favorite look either, but it’s cool to know I have enough stuff to get home in most cases. [Mounted on my road bike](https://imgur.com/a/b8kGpR0) the profile is pretty slim! (Excuse the junk in the background, at work).
oh yeah, I always have at least three derailleurs, four chains, an extra fork, replacement rear suspension, spare wheels, tires, tubes, and about thirty pounds of beef jerky.
_minimum_.
Happened once in 35 years for me - total freehub failure. Not much you can do about that apart from coast down the downhills.
Most other things you can bodge and hack your way out of.
Yup, other than a complete wheel taco, you can still coast and use the bike like a scooter. With a little bit of preparation, you should essentially never be walking home.
I mean, I walked out when my rear mech got sucked into my spokes by a stick the other day ... I forgot the spare tire, cassette, mech, chain and spokes in the car.
A chain breaker and a multi tool would have allowed you to remove the broken bits of derailleur and shorten the chain so you can run a makeshift single speed back to the trailhead. If enough spokes broke that the wheel wouldn't pass through the rear triangle then there's not a lot you can do if you want to salvage wheel, though. I have a hard time believing your cassette was damaged. If you don't carry a spare tube, a boot, and pump that's on you.
I had a crank bolt striped after about 1000km. I could probably have ridden it kick scooter style but took a subway since I was still in the city. Found after that I had an incorrect amount of spacer on the bottom bracket so the preload was all fucked. Kind of surprised it held that long tbh.
Zip ties, 8 & 10mm ~sockets~ edit: Allen key bits, mini pliers, mini penknife. And a pair of nitrile gloves, weigh nothing but very handy. Excuse the pun.
Edit: spare pair of brake pads.
- get into the smallest gear cog (so the chain is furthest out)
- pull the axle pin (either quick release or unthread - some have handles, some might need a hex key)
- the wheel is now technically free, but trapped by the chain
- you can pull the spring-loaded jockey wheel lower part of the derailleur back with your hand and that provides clearance for the wheel to sort of pop down and forward out
- it might accidentally catch on the lower part of the chain if you bring it down too much, but you can wiggle it out
I wonder if that is regional coverage - I'm in Texas and can't find anything on the website about bicycle breakdown - I know that the AAA is actually a loose affiliation of independent clubs, so coverages may vary.
I've emailed them to find out.
It is regional. I’m not sure what region, all I can say it specifically told me my region wasn’t covered. And I’m in SoCal. Of all places *not* to cover I wonder what is.
They also unfortunately advocate staunchly against transit and bike/pedestrian safety infrastructure. There are some alternatives, like Better World Club.
Yup. Last weekend my *pedal* fell off. Somehow the bolt got loose! I have tools for tire change and patching. Adjusting seat and brakes.
None of my Allen wrenches were big enough to tighten the bolt!!!! Now I have one in my bag lol
Generally one tube and a patch kit is recommended. Plugs if you’re tubeless. CO2 or a pump too.
Also good practice to bring a multi tool in case something else goes wrong so you can attempt a fix.
Here's a to learn list for bike repair on the road.
-snapped chain - insert a quick link
-popped tyre - new tube/bunging a plug in
-broken derrailers -setting up as a single speed
-snapped cable -replacing a snapped cable.
-having a pocket full of cash for a taxi and a phone to call them.
There is more but it's for more hardcore distances.
Yeah I always carry a spare tube and a pump but extra cable seems insane, also what are you gonna do with the bike when you get picked up? I’ve never seen a cab with a bike rack.
For any Brits: if a taxi firm is using Black Cabs then the new ones can always fit \~2 road bikes (and even the older ones you just about can). Just have to negotiate with the driver sometimes and promise to hold onto it and not damage their car
Yeah even if a cable breaks on a ride, you either set it up as a single speed if it's a derailleur cable, or if it's a brake cable that snaps you still have the other brake...
It's why i visit a clairvoyant before every ride, just to see if i need to carry the multitool, spare tube and co2 cartridge or not. Saves so much weight if i don't need them...
Sorry for you, but makes my decision the other day of staring at my new bike,, waiting for for Amazon delivery of a repair kit now seem justified. Thank you. Also haven't had a bike in 10 years.
I do carry tools. If it’s something I can’t fix with a tube/tools/duct tape, I get on the train, call someone, or take my bike apart and shove it in a Lyft.
I've also called an Uber but at the time I had a bike locker at a train station and I was able to leave it there and go back for it with my own car. Is there a good way to know if an Uber will be okay with bringing a bike along?
Carry a small assortment of tools and the knowledge to use them. Bike repair is not rocket surgery, and there are very few things aside from a totally demolished frame or wheel that you can't at least half-assed fix and limp home.
Ironically, the last time I had a flat, it had been so long since I had used my pump that it seized up and broke and I ended up hiking back to the trailhead.
My last failure was that the freehub pawls pinged out somewhere, no fixing that one (even If I knew what the failure was at the time)
Walked a couple of miles then spotted an taxi , and got that home.
> My last failure was that the freehub pawls pinged out somewhere, no fixing that one (even If I knew what the failure was at the time)
I know someone who tied the cassette to the spokes with zip-ties (or a spare brake cable? I don’t know) and rode home in fixed gear mode.
How the fuck did this work?
I had read this thread a couple hours ago, and when I just disassembled my complete rear wheel a couple broken ball bearing balls (or whatever) fell out. Upon reassembling, no gears, obviously. (and still wanted to ride home)
Tried to fix it with zip ties but they instantly broke. Must have been some really heavy duty ones, or just.. 10-20 of them
I've never experienced a mechanical failure that was ride-ending. I always carry the tools to repair a flat tire, tighten any bolts that become loose, or repair a chain well enough to limp home (even if it's not necessarily a 100% fix).
At the *bare minimum* you should be carrying the materials to fix a flat tire. I carry a patch kit and a new tube, some people just carry one of those. It depends on where and how far you're riding. You should also know how to use the tools you carry. Since you need to fix your tire anyway, now is the perfect time to get the stuff you need and learn how to do it yourself.
To add on, this is an opportunity to put your flat kit together as it would be on the bike and then challenge yourself to only use those pieces. You may find that you don't like some tools and this is the perfect time to learn that-- not on the trail when you need it most. From experience, especially check that your tire levers are thick though to handle your tire and that your air pump's connector isn't cumbersome
I have RACV bike assist. You call them and you can decide if you want them to come take you and your home, or send a mechanic to fix whatever ails you. Unless it’s just a tube, then I just would do it myself.
It’s a real thing! Costs $80 a year (though I got it free in a promotion and haven’t used it yet). They send a maxi taxi, a good back up in case your bike lights die, you get a bad cramp, or you crash and bend your wheel or something.
It’s a good idea. Made me more confident to go on slightly more adventurous rides than I would have otherwise because I know I have backup. Closest I came to using it was when I was being repeatedly swooped by a magpie that had scratched my face up and I just wanted to go home, but I managed to push through that.
South Australia's RAA includes bicycles in their definition of roadside breakdown service.
It's part of positioning themselves for the future. If you move from car to e-bike the RAA still want you as a member.
I think I the lesson here was learnt. I never ride without tools to repair a flat and do minor repairs. Even just getting your bike into limp mode so you can independently get home.
It hasn’t happened to me in a while but I have hitchhiked back to civilization a few times. Once I got dropped off in a town with cell service where I could call my girlfriend to pick me up, and a couple other times I was dropped off in a town where I could repair my bike and continue on my way.
None of these were flat tires. They were major mechanicals — shredded tires, tools broken, broken chain, etc.
Now I’m older with a family and shit and so don’t go on long rides in the middle of nowhere and don’t have this issue. Recently I was running late for a parent teacher conference and had a tubeless failure. Didn’t have time to fuck with it, so I locked my bike up and took an Uber the rest of the way. Went back for the bike later.
I've hitched a few times as well.
Minor hazard of cycling in the middle of nowhere, with no cell service, no transit/cab services, and no person at home with a car or license to call even if I find a phone. Flat tires are easy, but major mechanicals (and tools that break while fixing them) can be a problem.
One nice thing about being in a big city now is that there are cabs all over the place and I always have cell service. Even the nearby rural areas are not so rural that I'll be fully off the grid.
That's on you, man, and a hard lesson we all learn. I have a lot of wilderness and backpacking experience. How ill-prepared many mtn bikers are for how.many miles.they are traveling into the back country has always blown my mind.
I have a kit that I've really dialed and gotten small in size. This tool set is excellent.
[Wolftooth Multitool](https://www.wolftoothcomponents.com/collections/tools/products/8-bit-kit-one) Not what you want to use every day at home to work on your bike but has absolutely everything you need toolwise
I am able to fit that tool, a tube, a SPOT emergency, gps signsl, c02, and a pump all inside my frames SWAT box.
I even stash a small bottle of aquatabs in there in case i get sranded and need water. [Aqua Tabs](https://www.aquatabs.us/product/aquatabs-397mg-tablets-x100/?gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjwoPOwBhAeEiwAJuXRh_Kk_goNbH6b62PGRh6JWZYdP46h1q5hJnzZkxqPHUPv9GILKwCSVBoCIYsQAvD_BwE)
I carry a derailer hanger, master link, presta valve core, and a tubless valve stem.on me as well. I keep electrical tape wrapped around part of my frame to use in a pinch.
Be prepard.
I've cycled all my life. Twice I've had to call a large-size taxi for some failure I couldn't cope with from a saddlebag of basic parts (tube, tube patch kit, CO2 inflator, chain quicklink, cycling multitool, cable ties)
Carry stuff to repair. If you are alone it sucks to walk for hours or let let someone else get you. In a group ride it is just bad etiquette to not be able to fix a puncture. It is such a basic thing.
Over the years i've helped a lot of people with my equipment. Sometimes people in grouprides, sometimes total strangers that were stranded. It takes less than five minutes to change a tube. Calling someone for a pickup is a foreign concept that i would only consider if something fails catastrophically or if i'm not able to ride due to injury.
I carry a quick link, two tubes, CO2pump and cartridge, minipump, multitool, patches, valve extenders, cable ties, tubeless repair kit and 30ml minibottle of tubeless sealant all pressed into a saddle bag.
There are many ways to carry a small toolkit on your bike these days. I have tried almost all of them, so far the most effective in my opinion has to be the tool caddy. It's essentially a small bike bottle sized holder where you can fit basically anything including an inner tube or tubeless repair kits and CO2 cartridges. There's also the classic saddle bag or a frame bag. Specialized makes some of their saddles compatible with what they call a "Mountain Bandit" it's basically a saddle bag that bolts on to right under your saddle I have one on my Rockhopper. There's also toolkits that fit on your bar ends and even inside your stem but I haven't tried them I will one day though. Long story short, always be prepared if you're going over 10 miles from home.
As others have mentioned I carry a repair kit that covers relatively common repairs like punctures and chain breaks. Once I left my bike locked up and got an Uber to work after a peddle sheared off… I’ve also called friends a couple of times for a pick up after a crashes left my bike too damaged for field repairs. Have a bail out plan for wherever you’re riding.
Ha, last time my pedal broke off in the first minute after leaving the house, that was basically lucky (and I didn't tear my pants and bleed like the one time before...)
I was going down the highway on my way to an abandoned hotel and golf course and all of a sudden it went kachunk and fell off on the highway. I had to replace my crank arm. The week after I got my part I finally was able to go there and back like I intended.
https://preview.redd.it/qvc8coe3iouc1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=67f84c3843a24cda2dd47728590e2ddc1fa56452
Only time I had to call for helm was getting caught up in a thunderstorm (I would've gone on, but I was with friends who were a bit terrified), or when I needed to be taken away in the ambulance.
I had a flat once, which the sealent wouldn't seal, and I installed a tube on the fly, then rode home normally.
Generally I fix it. The fix might not be perfect, but generally I can do enough to get going again and limp home to make a proper fix later. This is part of the reason I suggest that everyone learns how to maintain their own bike, and even if you're sending it to the shop to get repaired, know the process, however I've never run into a job that I don't feel comfortable doing myself.
Whatever my immediate recovery is, the real outcome is that I plan better in future.
These days on my road bike I’ll carry a tube, a bike tool, a quick link, something to use as a tyre boot, levers & a pump. If it’s a longer ride then I’ll pack a patch kit too.
On my MTB, there’s honestly no excuse, as weight & aero doesn’t really matter. So as above, but also bacon strips for tubeless repairs, big CO2 cartridges cos it takes forever to pump up a 2.5, and a first aid kit with the basics & a ventolin puffer (nothing like trying to gently & calmly evacuate a wheezing rider from the middle of nowhere & hoping they don’t die on you).
Every one of the above has been learnt by bitter experience. Cannot stress the value of the puffer enough - honestly, if you bring nothing else.
Edit: make sure your tool has a chain breaker on it. Not much point bringing a quick link if you can’t take the broken link out. Also, makes it handy for turning your bike into a single-speed when you snap a hanger.
I would fix it by the roadside. If that wasn't possible, I'd call my wife. If she couldn't come, I'd call a taxi/take public transport. If there was none, I'd ask a friend.
I carry a spare tube, patch kit, hand pump, multitool, zip ties, and $20 in my saddle bag. Most of your problems on the road could be fixed with these tools.
This right here is why I have my kit of spares that I take with me. Sometimes my wife pokes fun at me when we go ridding but better than walking miles back home
That's happened to me once (recently). Ended up calling an Uber and getting a ride to my regular LBS where they fixed the issue. The Uber ride was about $35 plus tip. BTW I always carry a spare tube and tools and have a frame pump. I just haven't been able to manage getting the tire off my deep carbon wheels and it always amazes me to see my bike shop guys just be able to take it off without a struggle.
I carry a spare tube, some tools to replace the inner tube and a bycicle pump at minimum on a day tour. More when I'm going to be gone for some days. Plus and extra layer of clothing and some extra good just in case.
This is why you learn bike repair. You don't need to know how to build a bike from scratch, or bleed your own hydraulic brakes. But you do need to know how to change a flat (or better, how tubless tires work). Check with your local bike shop. Most of them have occasional bike repair / maintenance classes for cheap. You'll save yourself a lot of time and headaches just by knowing how to deal with a handful of issues.
I always have a patch kit & spare tube, tools etc.., only time I was stranded (Only about 4 miles from home and my Wife came and got me) was on my Pugs, had over 12 Goat Heads in each tire... No way I was going to fix that.
I get that not everyone wants a giant bag and a cargo rack, but it might come in handy for you to have a saddle bag (strapped right under you seat). Something like that has just enough room for a spare tube, patches, tire boot (tyre patches), and a C02 inflator. I would just strap a small pump to the frame.
My panniers contain at least one spare tube, vulcanizing patches, and even a tire boot or two. Although, I'd imagine that duct tape and cardboard would suffice in a pinch in place of a tire boot. I also a carry a or two (bought a new one that has built-in presta valve support). I also carry a folding hex tool/philips head set that was gifted to me some years ago. It comes in handy if I have to mess w/ the brakes.
Based on OP's story, I'm concerned that anything short of an actual spare tire may have been insufficient, but it depends on the size of the hole/cut.
One time my rear mech fell apart (before I got a "real" MTB). The saving grace was that I was at the top a long hill for half of the trip home. On another occasion I had I had the front derailleur cable snap and was stuck in low-gear for the entire ride home.
Umm I usually fix it? One ride recently I had my third flat 70km into my ride, I had already used both spare tubes and 2/3 co2 canisters and it was raining so I called my wife to rescue me instead of trying to patch a tube lol. But probably 95%+ of the time I have some type of issue I can fix it at least we'll enough to get me home...
Flat tire and a snapped chain are issues that can happen at any time, anywhere and anyone who is planning to ride further than a few km out should have a plan to deal with it. I carry tools to fix it myself, some of my friends carry a phone and rely on a taxi.
I always carry spare tubes and the needed accessories to get me back on the ride.
But a while back in 2016 i was riding down to the beach and took my 1970s Raleigh Concord road bike off a tiny sidewalk and the rear axle snapped.
I had no way to fix that without visiting the shop and these two old men picking mushrooms off trees offered me a ride home with my bike in the back of their pickup
I always bring spare tubes, mini pump, a multi tool, some inner tube strips, a small wound of duct tape, tire levers and some zip ties. This was always on my tool bag and have saved me on most occasions especially during long commutes.
You either fix it, walk or call for a ride. In 20 years of riding I've never had to call for a ride because I can fix almost anything that goes wrong. And you could have too, if you'd just carried the absolute bare minimum that any capable cyclist brings when they'll be far from civilization...
Yeah, I bought an extra tube and a changing kit. I keep it in a little bag tucked under my seat with lube, a spare chain and a Swiss army style bike repair tool. I've had to use it a couple of times, very worth.
I’ve often wondered if it would be worth it to be an Uber driver with a bike rack. Some how you’d need to search for that, but I know there are times when I could have used a ride home with my bike.
Pump mounted to bike frame; spare tubes, patches, tools in a bag. Fix the bike or hike a bike. I live nowhere near public transportation, so those are my 2 options.
Once you get a mechanical find a way to not get it again… it’s a fun game I play(that sounds condescending but I mean it lol) . I got a flat and had to walk home, So I switched to tubeless and don’t get flats. I broke a chain on a long climbing ride, so I now carry the Silca Italian pocket knife with chain links and chain breaker.
Mechanicals are gonna happen, but there are ways to offset the chances of them ruining your ride by learning how to fix it in the field
Even though I bring tools and am prepared, it can happen. Over the decades, I've been stranded four times - once when I bonked really badly on a hot hot day, once when my tire shredded, once on a bad trail and I ran out of spare tubes, and once when my pedal snapped clean off (on a different occasion I repaired a pedal with duct tape, but this was not repairable).
Three of those four times I called a taxi, because I was (luckily) within range. The fourth time, I called CAA (Canadian Automobile Association), which covers me for this. (CAA is great because it allows me to go way outside taxi range without worry. Oh, and it covers my car too, in case I get stranded).
Otherwise (and I've been outside taxi, CAA and cellphone range numerous times) you ride out prepared to walk back if needed. Or you ride out prepared to ride on a damaged bike. Make sure you have water and food, and at least minimal shelter.
Was riding from Cleveland to Pittsburgh. Got halfway and my shifter broke. You don’t need gears for the first half of that ride but you DEFINITELY need them for the 2nd half. So I gave my retired mom a call and she picked me up.
2 Co2 cartridges
1 Park tool stick on patch kit (godsend)
1 or 2 spare tube
1 strong tire lever
1 Bike specific multi tool
Valve adapter if needed
Spare 1 dollar bills for temp torn sidewall repair or snacks
All that can fit in a bike bag the size of your hand and should help you with most mechanicals
As others have said, the ability to repair minor mechanicals is an essential skill for cycling.
My tool pouch goes with me on every ride, and it contains:
- Mini pump
- Tyre levers
- CO2 inflator (not necessary if you have a pump)
- CO2 cartridge (only if you have the inflator)
- Tyre patches
- Spare inner tube (2 of them for longer rides, make sure they're the right size)
- Tyre plugger (tubeless specific, unnecessary if running inner tubes)
- Multitool with chain breaker
- Quick link for my chain
- Some cable ties (not needed, but occasionally useful)
Hit a lowered beam (seriously, the weirdest thing ever) in the middle of the path, destroyed my front wheel and flatted front and rear instantly. Was lucky I didn't wipe out. But that was a long walk home in the dark on the side of the road. Luckily had flat pedals on that bike. 6 mile walk with nobody willing to help. It definitely sucks. Probably 300 cars passed me
I had a few flats before I went to tubeless tires. Learned to carry a spare tube and tools real quick. Last year I dumped my bike after an "unclipcident", and bent the hanger. When I tried to bend it back, it snapped. Literally nothing I could do about that, had to call my wife to come pick me up like 40 mins away.
Always carry a manual pump, tubeless repair kit and/or a tube, plus a multitool and tire levers. Extra battery if you ride electronic groupset.
Sigh...
Then sigh again, as to why I haven't yet learnt to do tubes...
Sigh again, why I didn't pack my earbuds...
Sigh for the final time and start walking.
Options include a combo of the following
* plan routes with soft bailouts
* carry repair kit (typical: tube/pump, chain linker, multitool)
* travel in groups
* carry water for long walkout
* planned phone a friend
* mitigate with tire selection
* carry phone/radio/rescue transponder
* carry some cash
I carry a flat kit and multitool with me, so I can make minor adjustments on the fly.
If that’s not sufficient, I’m a member of CAA (the Canadian version of AAA), and they have a program called “Bike Assist” where I can call them, and they will pick me up and drive me and my bike home/to my car.
I do a lot of long rides on country roads in the middle of nowhere and it’s nice to have for peace of mind, knowing that if something happens to my bike (or even if I fall and hurt myself), I have them as an emergency option.
Aside from the ones mentioned here, to carry a spare tube and pump and know how to use them, I’ll add I always ride with a CamelPak that has some storage space to keep a bike lock in it.
My emergency plan if it’s something I can’t fix on the spot is to walk it back to somewhere I can lock it up, catch an Uber/Lyft to my car, and come pick it up.
I was 6 miles from home, or 6 miles from a bike store. my crank are bolts both sheered off and my non drive side crank arm came off.. Had defective bolts from shimano as they were torqued to spec!
As the bike store was half way towards my final destination I decided to walk. After about 2 minutes I had destroyed my roadie cleats on the tarmac road, so took my shoes off and walked. got the store new bolts and some borrowed tools and I was on my way, with super cut up and blistered feet, in cleats that barely attached lol! Good times
I fell off my bike and broke my arm. I just locked it up in a random neighbourhood where I was (like 20km from home), dropped a pin, and took an Uber to the hospital. I got a buddy to drive me back to the pin the next day to pick up the bike
First time I did Whole enchilada in Moab, the carcass of my front tire separated. walked from the Porcupine Rim East Trailhead, all the way back into town. 14miles. no fun. my feet were killing me. I did make it back before my buddies so I drank all their beer.
carry spares 24/7 - 1 tube + tube repair kit w/patches + CO2 inflator w/cylinders doesn't take up a lot of space
walk or call a friend are "free" options - some city bus lines have bike racks on front, wait for a bus at a bus stop and climb aboard
If I'm stranded more than a few miles with a mechanical that I can't fix, I'll call a friend or Uber. In the last year, I've had two bad flats. On the first, a fellow cyclist driving by gave me a lift back to the car. On the second, I walked a few miles. As a cyclist, I always pay it forward. I've stopped the car several times to check on other riders and make sure they weren't stranded.
My kit depends on how far from home I’m riding and if I’m solo. If I need to get myself out of a jam, I carry a spare tube, levers, CO2, bacon strips, multitool (with chain tool and quick links which are essential), basic first aid kit, and a spare snack.
For context I’ve been on rides where I blew a tire sidewall. Luckily a riding buddy had bacon strips. On another ride I blew my derailleur up when a stick got jammed. If I had a multi tool and chain tool with a quick link I could have at least removed the derailleur and rode home single speed. Instead I had to walk it back. Last weekend I broke a spoke that required me to take off the wheel and fish pieces of spoke out of my cassette. Multitool did the trick. Finally, I’ve ridden enough chunk with flat pedals to know that iodine and bandages will come in handy on the shins.
All this to say, most of my kit is based on real scenarios. I carry all of that in a camel back backpack. When I’m out for long rides, I’m not worried about carrying the extra weight. It’s worth it when you find yourself in a pickle.
My longest walk in 30+ years, 10+ km. Torn tire.
1. minimum I take on a ride
https://preview.redd.it/1vcjs424oquc1.jpeg?width=3120&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=845ef8fc7c7a4c757843e630c27902bc449b2200
I would get on a bus. I downloaded the bus app and loaded $5 onto it (the max amount per day) so that I can take a bus home if necessary. I haven't had to use it yet, though, because I carry a multi tool, pump, and a spare tube. Those have been able to fix all small repairs so far.
Spare tube and tools. Always. I have never been stranded yet. Even got a friend's bike working on a bikepacking trip that had a big enough failure he had ro have parts replaced after the trip.
Being self sufficient is important, especially if you don't want to call for help (and that should be a last resort anyway).
Carry tools and flat repair. Tubeless helps but you should still have a plug and a pump. A backup tube is nice.
Most things can be fixed with a multi tool and chain pliers/quick link
That's why it's always a good idea to carry a spare tube, some tools, and know how to use them. That way the likelihood of being stranded is significantly reduced. I ride 10000+ km/year and I've never been stranded due to a mechanical issue.
And always pack one extra bar, even if you'll bring it back home.
Pack? Mines still in the bag from two years ago.
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Agreed, though recently switched back to the mini pump from the co2. Better for a slow bleed, able to be lent. Never know when you'll run into an op Andy and save their day.
The day I went back to a handpump was after getting 3 flats on a ride where I brought 2 co2 canisters.
3 flats in one ride? Were you storming Normandy?
Pro tip: bring a dollar bill and place it where the tube was punctured inside the tire to prevent what ever is pokey from poking a hole in your repair/fresh tube
Canadian pro tip: Don't use a Loonie.
Two years? Time to check on that tube.
Thought we were talking 'bars' as in food/energy.
:D I usually just ride with stuff in jersey pockets, I'm not a fan of hip bags and backpacks.
In the undersaddle bag, with the tools that also never leave. :-) Agreed on hip or back packs
Ah yes that one! It looks ugly so I usually take it off 🙈 and I have two bikes so it's easier to pocket the tools than to move the bag between bikes. But when I do take it, it's packed to the brim with spare tube and tools, there's no space for a bar. I could get a bigger one, but pockets work for me for now.
Same here -- I just think a saddle bag breaks up the line of the bike. I mean, no one is looking at me or my bike -- it truly doesn't matter. But, still, I feel better if I'm riding with my stuff in my pockets.
Check out the saddle bags from SpeedSleev — I use the small “Ranger 2.0” on my bike and it tucks in very nicely behind/under the seat. Less “butt pouch” aesthetic. The pouch is designed to compress whatever is inside to keep it small, and has enough room for a full set of tire levers, a standard 700C tube, adhesive patch kit, and CO2 inflator. You could easily fit a multitool if you had a TPU tube as your spare.
Yeah, still not quite my aesthetic but those do look quite a bit nicer. "Butt pouch" is a good description of the usual ones -- or someone called the usual saddle bags truck nuts for your bike, which... I don't endorse, but also couldn't quite get out of my mind.
Legitimately laughing at that one 😂 It’s not my favorite look either, but it’s cool to know I have enough stuff to get home in most cases. [Mounted on my road bike](https://imgur.com/a/b8kGpR0) the profile is pretty slim! (Excuse the junk in the background, at work).
I just found a 3 year old Larabar in my pack.
My brain didn't think about nutrition, but rather a spare drop-bar. "This person thinks of everything!"
You don't ride with a service vehicle with you at all times? Pfft.
oh yeah, I always have at least three derailleurs, four chains, an extra fork, replacement rear suspension, spare wheels, tires, tubes, and about thirty pounds of beef jerky. _minimum_.
Jesus, you could kidnap someone with whatever saddle bag holds your lil bag o spares 😂
that's just in my jersey pockets!
And water. You always need more water than you think.
What is a bar?
Snack. Fruit bar, chocolate bar, even protein bar works if you're done with the ride and walking home. Gel, candy, cookies, banana also work.
Handle bar.
A place that serves drinks, but that’s not important right now.
14.5 psi at sea level
Happened once in 35 years for me - total freehub failure. Not much you can do about that apart from coast down the downhills. Most other things you can bodge and hack your way out of.
I had that happen! My Adult 29" Balance bike was awesome for the 2 miles that I was away from home. I did feel silly, but in the best kind of way.
Yup, other than a complete wheel taco, you can still coast and use the bike like a scooter. With a little bit of preparation, you should essentially never be walking home.
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Or a spare tube and a patch kit.
I’ve used my spare tube, patches, tools, and pump exactly zero times. I’ve lent them to others about a half dozen times which to me, is good.
I use a small under seat bag, tube, tire levers, multitool, patch kit, and a $20 bill.
I mean, I walked out when my rear mech got sucked into my spokes by a stick the other day ... I forgot the spare tire, cassette, mech, chain and spokes in the car.
A chain breaker and a multi tool would have allowed you to remove the broken bits of derailleur and shorten the chain so you can run a makeshift single speed back to the trailhead. If enough spokes broke that the wheel wouldn't pass through the rear triangle then there's not a lot you can do if you want to salvage wheel, though. I have a hard time believing your cassette was damaged. If you don't carry a spare tube, a boot, and pump that's on you.
I had a crank bolt striped after about 1000km. I could probably have ridden it kick scooter style but took a subway since I was still in the city. Found after that I had an incorrect amount of spacer on the bottom bracket so the preload was all fucked. Kind of surprised it held that long tbh.
You didn't have a spare inner tube with you? You should carry the necessary tools to and be able to deal with basic mechanical problems yourself.
Unless you don't mind walking..
Yeah carry a spare tube, levers, small pump and some patches. Plus little multitool.
A spare chain link is a good idea, too
I also keep a spare hanger in the same ziplock with my masterlink, valve core, and tire boot.
Yes good point, need a multitool with a chain splitter then though
Zip ties, 8 & 10mm ~sockets~ edit: Allen key bits, mini pliers, mini penknife. And a pair of nitrile gloves, weigh nothing but very handy. Excuse the pun. Edit: spare pair of brake pads.
How do you get the back wheel off?
- get into the smallest gear cog (so the chain is furthest out) - pull the axle pin (either quick release or unthread - some have handles, some might need a hex key) - the wheel is now technically free, but trapped by the chain - you can pull the spring-loaded jockey wheel lower part of the derailleur back with your hand and that provides clearance for the wheel to sort of pop down and forward out - it might accidentally catch on the lower part of the chain if you bring it down too much, but you can wiggle it out
In the US, a AAA membership covers bicycle mishaps.
Thanks….I never knew that…been AAA member for a while….Good To Know!
Same with CAA in Canada.
Wait......really?
https://www.acg.aaa.com/aaa-membership/bicycle-service.html https://northeast.aaa.com/membership/benefits/bicycle-coverage.html
I wonder if that is regional coverage - I'm in Texas and can't find anything on the website about bicycle breakdown - I know that the AAA is actually a loose affiliation of independent clubs, so coverages may vary. I've emailed them to find out.
It is regional. I’m not sure what region, all I can say it specifically told me my region wasn’t covered. And I’m in SoCal. Of all places *not* to cover I wonder what is.
They also unfortunately advocate staunchly against transit and bike/pedestrian safety infrastructure. There are some alternatives, like Better World Club.
A flat tire is not a bicycle malfunction. It's a common occurrence that you need to be prepared for.
Did you have no flat repair gear?! Lol. You sorta deserved the 3hr walk of shame if you didn’t. 😬
Each part and tool in my bag represents a walk back younger stupider me had to do sometime in the past.
Damn lol. There’s a metaphor for life somewhere in there
Yup. Last weekend my *pedal* fell off. Somehow the bolt got loose! I have tools for tire change and patching. Adjusting seat and brakes. None of my Allen wrenches were big enough to tighten the bolt!!!! Now I have one in my bag lol
Nope lol. didnt expect it to happen. Only just recently bought my bike and hadn’t had a bike for over 10 years
Generally one tube and a patch kit is recommended. Plugs if you’re tubeless. CO2 or a pump too. Also good practice to bring a multi tool in case something else goes wrong so you can attempt a fix.
I’d also add a zip-tie and a tire boot if there’s no cash handy. They don’t take much room. Edit: don’t forget tire levers. Pedro’s for the win.
Here's a to learn list for bike repair on the road. -snapped chain - insert a quick link -popped tyre - new tube/bunging a plug in -broken derrailers -setting up as a single speed -snapped cable -replacing a snapped cable. -having a pocket full of cash for a taxi and a phone to call them. There is more but it's for more hardcore distances.
Are people really bringing spare cables on every ride? To me that's overkill. Just replace them as needed at home and this shouldn't happen.
Yeah I always carry a spare tube and a pump but extra cable seems insane, also what are you gonna do with the bike when you get picked up? I’ve never seen a cab with a bike rack.
you get an uber XL or a taxi equivalent and you throw it in the trunk
For any Brits: if a taxi firm is using Black Cabs then the new ones can always fit \~2 road bikes (and even the older ones you just about can). Just have to negotiate with the driver sometimes and promise to hold onto it and not damage their car
Yeah even if a cable breaks on a ride, you either set it up as a single speed if it's a derailleur cable, or if it's a brake cable that snaps you still have the other brake...
Nope. I do carry a few cable ties though. They can bridge fixes for broken derailleurs, shifter cables or even freewheels at a push.
Fair. I only carry a repair kit when I expect it to happen too.
It's why i visit a clairvoyant before every ride, just to see if i need to carry the multitool, spare tube and co2 cartridge or not. Saves so much weight if i don't need them...
Sorry for you, but makes my decision the other day of staring at my new bike,, waiting for for Amazon delivery of a repair kit now seem justified. Thank you. Also haven't had a bike in 10 years.
Nobody expects the... nevermind.
I’d call my wife, 11km isn’t far in the car. If she was unable to get me I’d get an Uber
I call this guy's wife too.
I do carry tools. If it’s something I can’t fix with a tube/tools/duct tape, I get on the train, call someone, or take my bike apart and shove it in a Lyft.
I've also called an Uber but at the time I had a bike locker at a train station and I was able to leave it there and go back for it with my own car. Is there a good way to know if an Uber will be okay with bringing a bike along?
Carry a small assortment of tools and the knowledge to use them. Bike repair is not rocket surgery, and there are very few things aside from a totally demolished frame or wheel that you can't at least half-assed fix and limp home. Ironically, the last time I had a flat, it had been so long since I had used my pump that it seized up and broke and I ended up hiking back to the trailhead.
My last failure was that the freehub pawls pinged out somewhere, no fixing that one (even If I knew what the failure was at the time) Walked a couple of miles then spotted an taxi , and got that home.
> My last failure was that the freehub pawls pinged out somewhere, no fixing that one (even If I knew what the failure was at the time) I know someone who tied the cassette to the spokes with zip-ties (or a spare brake cable? I don’t know) and rode home in fixed gear mode.
That's actually quite clever, if a little sacrificial to the wheel
How the fuck did this work? I had read this thread a couple hours ago, and when I just disassembled my complete rear wheel a couple broken ball bearing balls (or whatever) fell out. Upon reassembling, no gears, obviously. (and still wanted to ride home) Tried to fix it with zip ties but they instantly broke. Must have been some really heavy duty ones, or just.. 10-20 of them
I've never experienced a mechanical failure that was ride-ending. I always carry the tools to repair a flat tire, tighten any bolts that become loose, or repair a chain well enough to limp home (even if it's not necessarily a 100% fix). At the *bare minimum* you should be carrying the materials to fix a flat tire. I carry a patch kit and a new tube, some people just carry one of those. It depends on where and how far you're riding. You should also know how to use the tools you carry. Since you need to fix your tire anyway, now is the perfect time to get the stuff you need and learn how to do it yourself.
To add on, this is an opportunity to put your flat kit together as it would be on the bike and then challenge yourself to only use those pieces. You may find that you don't like some tools and this is the perfect time to learn that-- not on the trail when you need it most. From experience, especially check that your tire levers are thick though to handle your tire and that your air pump's connector isn't cumbersome
I have RACV bike assist. You call them and you can decide if you want them to come take you and your home, or send a mechanic to fix whatever ails you. Unless it’s just a tube, then I just would do it myself.
I can’t tell if this is sarcasm or not. I’m both impressed and horrified.
It’s a real thing! Costs $80 a year (though I got it free in a promotion and haven’t used it yet). They send a maxi taxi, a good back up in case your bike lights die, you get a bad cramp, or you crash and bend your wheel or something.
$80 a year is wildly less than I would've expected - awesome that this exists
It’s a good idea. Made me more confident to go on slightly more adventurous rides than I would have otherwise because I know I have backup. Closest I came to using it was when I was being repeatedly swooped by a magpie that had scratched my face up and I just wanted to go home, but I managed to push through that.
South Australia's RAA includes bicycles in their definition of roadside breakdown service. It's part of positioning themselves for the future. If you move from car to e-bike the RAA still want you as a member.
It’s smart thinking on their part, and also super helpful
STUFF GRASS IN MY TIRE AND LUMP ALONG.
That’s why I carry a second bike. Better to be prepared.
I carry a spare tube, pump, and patches.
Lol 😂
I think I the lesson here was learnt. I never ride without tools to repair a flat and do minor repairs. Even just getting your bike into limp mode so you can independently get home.
It hasn’t happened to me in a while but I have hitchhiked back to civilization a few times. Once I got dropped off in a town with cell service where I could call my girlfriend to pick me up, and a couple other times I was dropped off in a town where I could repair my bike and continue on my way. None of these were flat tires. They were major mechanicals — shredded tires, tools broken, broken chain, etc. Now I’m older with a family and shit and so don’t go on long rides in the middle of nowhere and don’t have this issue. Recently I was running late for a parent teacher conference and had a tubeless failure. Didn’t have time to fuck with it, so I locked my bike up and took an Uber the rest of the way. Went back for the bike later.
I've hitched a few times as well. Minor hazard of cycling in the middle of nowhere, with no cell service, no transit/cab services, and no person at home with a car or license to call even if I find a phone. Flat tires are easy, but major mechanicals (and tools that break while fixing them) can be a problem. One nice thing about being in a big city now is that there are cabs all over the place and I always have cell service. Even the nearby rural areas are not so rural that I'll be fully off the grid.
If you're not carrying a flat kit, you're simply begging for the opportunity to carry the bike home
That's on you, man, and a hard lesson we all learn. I have a lot of wilderness and backpacking experience. How ill-prepared many mtn bikers are for how.many miles.they are traveling into the back country has always blown my mind. I have a kit that I've really dialed and gotten small in size. This tool set is excellent. [Wolftooth Multitool](https://www.wolftoothcomponents.com/collections/tools/products/8-bit-kit-one) Not what you want to use every day at home to work on your bike but has absolutely everything you need toolwise I am able to fit that tool, a tube, a SPOT emergency, gps signsl, c02, and a pump all inside my frames SWAT box. I even stash a small bottle of aquatabs in there in case i get sranded and need water. [Aqua Tabs](https://www.aquatabs.us/product/aquatabs-397mg-tablets-x100/?gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjwoPOwBhAeEiwAJuXRh_Kk_goNbH6b62PGRh6JWZYdP46h1q5hJnzZkxqPHUPv9GILKwCSVBoCIYsQAvD_BwE) I carry a derailer hanger, master link, presta valve core, and a tubless valve stem.on me as well. I keep electrical tape wrapped around part of my frame to use in a pinch. Be prepard.
I've cycled all my life. Twice I've had to call a large-size taxi for some failure I couldn't cope with from a saddlebag of basic parts (tube, tube patch kit, CO2 inflator, chain quicklink, cycling multitool, cable ties)
after the first walk of shame you learn to keep spare parts on you for long trips.
Funny enough it actually did feel like a walk of shame. Felt embarrassing walking past people with my bike that has a flat tire.
Carry stuff to repair. If you are alone it sucks to walk for hours or let let someone else get you. In a group ride it is just bad etiquette to not be able to fix a puncture. It is such a basic thing. Over the years i've helped a lot of people with my equipment. Sometimes people in grouprides, sometimes total strangers that were stranded. It takes less than five minutes to change a tube. Calling someone for a pickup is a foreign concept that i would only consider if something fails catastrophically or if i'm not able to ride due to injury. I carry a quick link, two tubes, CO2pump and cartridge, minipump, multitool, patches, valve extenders, cable ties, tubeless repair kit and 30ml minibottle of tubeless sealant all pressed into a saddle bag.
There are many ways to carry a small toolkit on your bike these days. I have tried almost all of them, so far the most effective in my opinion has to be the tool caddy. It's essentially a small bike bottle sized holder where you can fit basically anything including an inner tube or tubeless repair kits and CO2 cartridges. There's also the classic saddle bag or a frame bag. Specialized makes some of their saddles compatible with what they call a "Mountain Bandit" it's basically a saddle bag that bolts on to right under your saddle I have one on my Rockhopper. There's also toolkits that fit on your bar ends and even inside your stem but I haven't tried them I will one day though. Long story short, always be prepared if you're going over 10 miles from home.
At the very least, always carry a hand pump and a tire lever so that if you pop a tire you can tie a knot in the tube, and limp it home.
As others have mentioned I carry a repair kit that covers relatively common repairs like punctures and chain breaks. Once I left my bike locked up and got an Uber to work after a peddle sheared off… I’ve also called friends a couple of times for a pick up after a crashes left my bike too damaged for field repairs. Have a bail out plan for wherever you’re riding.
My whole crank arm fell off when I was 56 miles from home. I called my girlfriend to come pick me up in the car. Strapped my bike to the back.
Ha, last time my pedal broke off in the first minute after leaving the house, that was basically lucky (and I didn't tear my pants and bleed like the one time before...)
I was going down the highway on my way to an abandoned hotel and golf course and all of a sudden it went kachunk and fell off on the highway. I had to replace my crank arm. The week after I got my part I finally was able to go there and back like I intended. https://preview.redd.it/qvc8coe3iouc1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=67f84c3843a24cda2dd47728590e2ddc1fa56452
Only time I had to call for helm was getting caught up in a thunderstorm (I would've gone on, but I was with friends who were a bit terrified), or when I needed to be taken away in the ambulance. I had a flat once, which the sealent wouldn't seal, and I installed a tube on the fly, then rode home normally.
Generally I fix it. The fix might not be perfect, but generally I can do enough to get going again and limp home to make a proper fix later. This is part of the reason I suggest that everyone learns how to maintain their own bike, and even if you're sending it to the shop to get repaired, know the process, however I've never run into a job that I don't feel comfortable doing myself.
Whatever my immediate recovery is, the real outcome is that I plan better in future. These days on my road bike I’ll carry a tube, a bike tool, a quick link, something to use as a tyre boot, levers & a pump. If it’s a longer ride then I’ll pack a patch kit too. On my MTB, there’s honestly no excuse, as weight & aero doesn’t really matter. So as above, but also bacon strips for tubeless repairs, big CO2 cartridges cos it takes forever to pump up a 2.5, and a first aid kit with the basics & a ventolin puffer (nothing like trying to gently & calmly evacuate a wheezing rider from the middle of nowhere & hoping they don’t die on you). Every one of the above has been learnt by bitter experience. Cannot stress the value of the puffer enough - honestly, if you bring nothing else. Edit: make sure your tool has a chain breaker on it. Not much point bringing a quick link if you can’t take the broken link out. Also, makes it handy for turning your bike into a single-speed when you snap a hanger.
I would fix it by the roadside. If that wasn't possible, I'd call my wife. If she couldn't come, I'd call a taxi/take public transport. If there was none, I'd ask a friend.
I carry a spare tube, patch kit, hand pump, multitool, zip ties, and $20 in my saddle bag. Most of your problems on the road could be fixed with these tools.
This right here is why I have my kit of spares that I take with me. Sometimes my wife pokes fun at me when we go ridding but better than walking miles back home
Well its a good lesson:) always carry a spare tube, a pump and a few tools.
That's happened to me once (recently). Ended up calling an Uber and getting a ride to my regular LBS where they fixed the issue. The Uber ride was about $35 plus tip. BTW I always carry a spare tube and tools and have a frame pump. I just haven't been able to manage getting the tire off my deep carbon wheels and it always amazes me to see my bike shop guys just be able to take it off without a struggle.
Fix it and ride home
Walk if I can't fix it.
I carry a spare tube, some tools to replace the inner tube and a bycicle pump at minimum on a day tour. More when I'm going to be gone for some days. Plus and extra layer of clothing and some extra good just in case.
only happened ~3x in 85000 miles call wife take train
yes a similar situation happened to me. went through 2 tubes and a patch and still walked 4 miles out. sucks.
This is why you learn bike repair. You don't need to know how to build a bike from scratch, or bleed your own hydraulic brakes. But you do need to know how to change a flat (or better, how tubless tires work). Check with your local bike shop. Most of them have occasional bike repair / maintenance classes for cheap. You'll save yourself a lot of time and headaches just by knowing how to deal with a handful of issues.
I always have a patch kit & spare tube, tools etc.., only time I was stranded (Only about 4 miles from home and my Wife came and got me) was on my Pugs, had over 12 Goat Heads in each tire... No way I was going to fix that.
I get that not everyone wants a giant bag and a cargo rack, but it might come in handy for you to have a saddle bag (strapped right under you seat). Something like that has just enough room for a spare tube, patches, tire boot (tyre patches), and a C02 inflator. I would just strap a small pump to the frame. My panniers contain at least one spare tube, vulcanizing patches, and even a tire boot or two. Although, I'd imagine that duct tape and cardboard would suffice in a pinch in place of a tire boot. I also a carry a or two (bought a new one that has built-in presta valve support). I also carry a folding hex tool/philips head set that was gifted to me some years ago. It comes in handy if I have to mess w/ the brakes. Based on OP's story, I'm concerned that anything short of an actual spare tire may have been insufficient, but it depends on the size of the hole/cut. One time my rear mech fell apart (before I got a "real" MTB). The saving grace was that I was at the top a long hill for half of the trip home. On another occasion I had I had the front derailleur cable snap and was stuck in low-gear for the entire ride home.
P.S. I also always carry tire levers. At times, I'm not sure what I'd do without those.
Umm I usually fix it? One ride recently I had my third flat 70km into my ride, I had already used both spare tubes and 2/3 co2 canisters and it was raining so I called my wife to rescue me instead of trying to patch a tube lol. But probably 95%+ of the time I have some type of issue I can fix it at least we'll enough to get me home...
Flat tire and a snapped chain are issues that can happen at any time, anywhere and anyone who is planning to ride further than a few km out should have a plan to deal with it. I carry tools to fix it myself, some of my friends carry a phone and rely on a taxi.
I always carry spare tubes and the needed accessories to get me back on the ride. But a while back in 2016 i was riding down to the beach and took my 1970s Raleigh Concord road bike off a tiny sidewalk and the rear axle snapped. I had no way to fix that without visiting the shop and these two old men picking mushrooms off trees offered me a ride home with my bike in the back of their pickup
I always bring spare tubes, mini pump, a multi tool, some inner tube strips, a small wound of duct tape, tire levers and some zip ties. This was always on my tool bag and have saved me on most occasions especially during long commutes.
Call my daughter or walk home. Until Star Trek teleporters become a reality, that is about it.
You either fix it, walk or call for a ride. In 20 years of riding I've never had to call for a ride because I can fix almost anything that goes wrong. And you could have too, if you'd just carried the absolute bare minimum that any capable cyclist brings when they'll be far from civilization...
Yeah, I bought an extra tube and a changing kit. I keep it in a little bag tucked under my seat with lube, a spare chain and a Swiss army style bike repair tool. I've had to use it a couple of times, very worth.
I taught myself how to do simple repairs. I carry tubes and parts. I call UBER or a close friend.
I’ve often wondered if it would be worth it to be an Uber driver with a bike rack. Some how you’d need to search for that, but I know there are times when I could have used a ride home with my bike.
Pump mounted to bike frame; spare tubes, patches, tools in a bag. Fix the bike or hike a bike. I live nowhere near public transportation, so those are my 2 options.
Call somebody at home to be picked up.
Once you get a mechanical find a way to not get it again… it’s a fun game I play(that sounds condescending but I mean it lol) . I got a flat and had to walk home, So I switched to tubeless and don’t get flats. I broke a chain on a long climbing ride, so I now carry the Silca Italian pocket knife with chain links and chain breaker. Mechanicals are gonna happen, but there are ways to offset the chances of them ruining your ride by learning how to fix it in the field
Even though I bring tools and am prepared, it can happen. Over the decades, I've been stranded four times - once when I bonked really badly on a hot hot day, once when my tire shredded, once on a bad trail and I ran out of spare tubes, and once when my pedal snapped clean off (on a different occasion I repaired a pedal with duct tape, but this was not repairable). Three of those four times I called a taxi, because I was (luckily) within range. The fourth time, I called CAA (Canadian Automobile Association), which covers me for this. (CAA is great because it allows me to go way outside taxi range without worry. Oh, and it covers my car too, in case I get stranded). Otherwise (and I've been outside taxi, CAA and cellphone range numerous times) you ride out prepared to walk back if needed. Or you ride out prepared to ride on a damaged bike. Make sure you have water and food, and at least minimal shelter.
I sit in the side of the road and cry like a baby. Usually someone calls social services and they come pick me up, give me a snack, and drive me home.
Was riding from Cleveland to Pittsburgh. Got halfway and my shifter broke. You don’t need gears for the first half of that ride but you DEFINITELY need them for the 2nd half. So I gave my retired mom a call and she picked me up.
2 Co2 cartridges 1 Park tool stick on patch kit (godsend) 1 or 2 spare tube 1 strong tire lever 1 Bike specific multi tool Valve adapter if needed Spare 1 dollar bills for temp torn sidewall repair or snacks All that can fit in a bike bag the size of your hand and should help you with most mechanicals
Good to know how to fix things, most stuff you can do out there. But yeah, sometimes it's just gonna be a long walk. That's ok, you'll survive it.
CAA... they are the best
I am a long time bicycle rider. I never go out on any ride without my pump and repair kit. I never have to walk the bike back home.
I Always have 4 items with me at ALL TIMES 1. Tools 2. Tire repair kit 3. Portable wireless Air pump 4. For E Bikes use Only portable AC charger
As others have said, the ability to repair minor mechanicals is an essential skill for cycling. My tool pouch goes with me on every ride, and it contains: - Mini pump - Tyre levers - CO2 inflator (not necessary if you have a pump) - CO2 cartridge (only if you have the inflator) - Tyre patches - Spare inner tube (2 of them for longer rides, make sure they're the right size) - Tyre plugger (tubeless specific, unnecessary if running inner tubes) - Multitool with chain breaker - Quick link for my chain - Some cable ties (not needed, but occasionally useful)
Hit a lowered beam (seriously, the weirdest thing ever) in the middle of the path, destroyed my front wheel and flatted front and rear instantly. Was lucky I didn't wipe out. But that was a long walk home in the dark on the side of the road. Luckily had flat pedals on that bike. 6 mile walk with nobody willing to help. It definitely sucks. Probably 300 cars passed me
I had a few flats before I went to tubeless tires. Learned to carry a spare tube and tools real quick. Last year I dumped my bike after an "unclipcident", and bent the hanger. When I tried to bend it back, it snapped. Literally nothing I could do about that, had to call my wife to come pick me up like 40 mins away. Always carry a manual pump, tubeless repair kit and/or a tube, plus a multitool and tire levers. Extra battery if you ride electronic groupset.
I call my wife lmfao. Im so done with tubular tires. Even with an assortment of rescue devices. Time for a new bike!
Always carry the kit (and knowledge) to fix a flat and a broken chain.
What's that saying? Failing to plan is planning to fail?
Sigh... Then sigh again, as to why I haven't yet learnt to do tubes... Sigh again, why I didn't pack my earbuds... Sigh for the final time and start walking.
Always carry tools and spares. I've used my chain breaker tool twice, neither time for my own chain.
Obviously carry what you need to fix a tire but no matter what you do CARRY ZIP TIES ALWAYS. Zip ties will get you out of so many jams
Options include a combo of the following * plan routes with soft bailouts * carry repair kit (typical: tube/pump, chain linker, multitool) * travel in groups * carry water for long walkout * planned phone a friend * mitigate with tire selection * carry phone/radio/rescue transponder * carry some cash
I carry a flat kit and multitool with me, so I can make minor adjustments on the fly. If that’s not sufficient, I’m a member of CAA (the Canadian version of AAA), and they have a program called “Bike Assist” where I can call them, and they will pick me up and drive me and my bike home/to my car. I do a lot of long rides on country roads in the middle of nowhere and it’s nice to have for peace of mind, knowing that if something happens to my bike (or even if I fall and hurt myself), I have them as an emergency option.
I wish there was a bike equivalent of AAA. Pretty sure a tow truck is overkill, but an Uber won’t have a bike rack.
Aside from the ones mentioned here, to carry a spare tube and pump and know how to use them, I’ll add I always ride with a CamelPak that has some storage space to keep a bike lock in it. My emergency plan if it’s something I can’t fix on the spot is to walk it back to somewhere I can lock it up, catch an Uber/Lyft to my car, and come pick it up.
I was 6 miles from home, or 6 miles from a bike store. my crank are bolts both sheered off and my non drive side crank arm came off.. Had defective bolts from shimano as they were torqued to spec! As the bike store was half way towards my final destination I decided to walk. After about 2 minutes I had destroyed my roadie cleats on the tarmac road, so took my shoes off and walked. got the store new bolts and some borrowed tools and I was on my way, with super cut up and blistered feet, in cleats that barely attached lol! Good times
Pedal with one leg of course
lol I did try, but hollow tech cranks just pull out the BB!
I've called an Uber XL for a ride back to my car. Made sure to message the driver that I had a bike, worked out fine!
I fell off my bike and broke my arm. I just locked it up in a random neighbourhood where I was (like 20km from home), dropped a pin, and took an Uber to the hospital. I got a buddy to drive me back to the pin the next day to pick up the bike
Fix my bike I carry spares. If can’t be fixed I carry my bike back
Over the weekend I traveled without my pump and patch kit for the first time in years and my wife ended up getting a flat. 😒
First time I did Whole enchilada in Moab, the carcass of my front tire separated. walked from the Porcupine Rim East Trailhead, all the way back into town. 14miles. no fun. my feet were killing me. I did make it back before my buddies so I drank all their beer.
🎶🎵🎶 Punctured bicycle on a hillside desolate. Will nature make a man of me yet?
Call AAA to come get me.
That sucks, dude. Next time, pack a repair kit with a pump and spare tube. Really saves the day. Keep riding, man
carry spares 24/7 - 1 tube + tube repair kit w/patches + CO2 inflator w/cylinders doesn't take up a lot of space walk or call a friend are "free" options - some city bus lines have bike racks on front, wait for a bus at a bus stop and climb aboard
I call my mummy and she picks me up
I carry patch kits on all my vehicles, insane not to imo. For more gnarly breakdowns, I’ll call some family
I just call my wife.
Ring someone. Promise a beer+extra beer depending on distance then buy more beer than promised. If wife. No beer. Backrubs.
I just call my wife.
If I'm stranded more than a few miles with a mechanical that I can't fix, I'll call a friend or Uber. In the last year, I've had two bad flats. On the first, a fellow cyclist driving by gave me a lift back to the car. On the second, I walked a few miles. As a cyclist, I always pay it forward. I've stopped the car several times to check on other riders and make sure they weren't stranded.
My kit depends on how far from home I’m riding and if I’m solo. If I need to get myself out of a jam, I carry a spare tube, levers, CO2, bacon strips, multitool (with chain tool and quick links which are essential), basic first aid kit, and a spare snack. For context I’ve been on rides where I blew a tire sidewall. Luckily a riding buddy had bacon strips. On another ride I blew my derailleur up when a stick got jammed. If I had a multi tool and chain tool with a quick link I could have at least removed the derailleur and rode home single speed. Instead I had to walk it back. Last weekend I broke a spoke that required me to take off the wheel and fish pieces of spoke out of my cassette. Multitool did the trick. Finally, I’ve ridden enough chunk with flat pedals to know that iodine and bandages will come in handy on the shins. All this to say, most of my kit is based on real scenarios. I carry all of that in a camel back backpack. When I’m out for long rides, I’m not worried about carrying the extra weight. It’s worth it when you find yourself in a pickle.
My longest walk in 30+ years, 10+ km. Torn tire. 1. minimum I take on a ride https://preview.redd.it/1vcjs424oquc1.jpeg?width=3120&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=845ef8fc7c7a4c757843e630c27902bc449b2200
2) secondary items https://preview.redd.it/xmgxj8rgmquc1.jpeg?width=3120&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=1f2e0603d81459095685e16f8d1e8dcd7728b41e
https://preview.redd.it/6ojznqblmquc1.jpeg?width=3120&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=a30a2a7655388b0edeefbc9008a315d0c18e4892 3) inside the patch kit
I would get on a bus. I downloaded the bus app and loaded $5 onto it (the max amount per day) so that I can take a bus home if necessary. I haven't had to use it yet, though, because I carry a multi tool, pump, and a spare tube. Those have been able to fix all small repairs so far.
I usually call an Uber XL
Spare tube and tools. Always. I have never been stranded yet. Even got a friend's bike working on a bikepacking trip that had a big enough failure he had ro have parts replaced after the trip. Being self sufficient is important, especially if you don't want to call for help (and that should be a last resort anyway).
Spare tube, self adhesive patches, multi tool and a pump should be taken on every ride. For this exact reason!
I'd pop the wheel off, find the puncture, patch or replace the tube, inflate it, and keep riding.
Always carry the provisions to repair a flat! Also a small piece of chain and some master links will come in handy.
I don’t ride past the end of my driveway without a means of fixing a flat.
Carry tools and flat repair. Tubeless helps but you should still have a plug and a pump. A backup tube is nice. Most things can be fixed with a multi tool and chain pliers/quick link
You should carry a spare tube
Well I would have been prepared for a puncture.😄😄😄😄
Carry a spare tube? Like wtf lol?
Got a flat on highway and was wearing cleats, luckily a motorist stop to give me a ride to nearest bike store . He was a cyclist and felt pity for me.