So, over the years I learnt what I needed to be ready to solve a flat on the go.
Back then I wasn’t aware of the pre-made kits (or maybe they weren’t even around), so I made mine.
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One glove for the really dirty patrts. I use it also when the chain falls
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one tube because I don’t want to deal with patches and glue while in a hurry
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flat wrench since I don’t have quick realase on my wheels
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a small pump
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the (usual) 3 plastic tools to remove the tire
This is how I wrap it up to keep i compact:
What do you use? Do you carry a kit at all?
I think a better question is how big a difference it makes to have one when you need it.
I don’t carry one, but I don’t bike in areas where I can’t walk my bike home ore take a bus if need be. I’ve had flats. Normally, I discovered them at the end of the day, when I was preparing to ride home.
I guess so, whilst it can be annoying in the moment for the most part I am happy to walk home and take that risk.
That one pinch flat I mentioned was during an acid trip and turned what would have been a slightly better than average 60km road ride into a 3 plus hour trek through some beautiful countryside with a great hour long chat with my mum on the phone. I still fondly remember that day and needless to say I wouldn’t have had such a great day if I’d had a repair kit on me.
However everyone will have different experiences with punctures xD
You can repair the flat and still walk home.
Why would I do that? I think you missed the point that the puncture forced me to do something I hadn’t planned to do which was ultimately very enjoyable.
Yes. And I’m just pointing out that you can derive the same benefit from a purposeful change in behavior.
You can do it with a flat tire, but you can also do it with a patched one. You don’t need to wait for street trash and a deliberate pack of preparation to stop and smell the flowers.