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Imagine the wind through your helmet vents, the hum of the tires on the road, the sun on your face...mile after mile on a bicycle. Then, a sound you dread. The hiss of air being suddenly released from one of your tires. You slow to a stop. Looking around, you realize that you and your bike are miles from home. Not to worry. You have come prepared for this inevitable inconvenience.

Yes, unless you are not venturing further than a few blocks from home, you will need some necessities before mounting your bicycle.

I started with the flat as that is going to be the most frequent reason to carry a few essentials. First, you will need a spare tube, a tire lever or two, and either a bike-mounted pump, mini-pump or CO2 cartridges and inflating device. Oh, and make sure you have the correct cartridge for the inflater. Some are threaded and some are not. It is best to take two cartridges. Also, it is advisable to try inflating your tire at home first if you are using CO2 cartridges. They can be a little tricky. And even use whatever pump you will be taking cycling. I once stopped for a cyclist who did not know how to use his mini-pump.
Something I discovered from another cyclist was the cost variance of CO2 cartridges. I used to buy them at bike stores for $1.50 to $2.00 EACH. Then someone told me to go to a large sporting goods store and buy them in boxes for about fifty cents each. CO2 is also used for paintball guns. But make sure these fit your bicycle inflation system.

To fix the flat, remove the wheel from the frame. You should have quick releases on the wheels! Using a tire lever, peel off the tire on ONE side only. Pull out the tube. Place the new tube valve first into the rim, then feed the rest under the tire. Start at or near the valve and place the tire back on the rim. The last six inches can be a struggle. Seccure the wheel on your lap and with both hands, slide the tire bead over the rim. Make sure the tube is not pinched under the tire. Check for this around the entire circumference. You are ready to inflate.

I know some bicyclists recommend a patch kit. Save the patching when you are home. Use a spare inner tube when you flat while cycling. Plus, after many years of cycling, I have concluded that most patches will eventually fail.

I do not carry any tools, but if you want to, the folding hex wrench set is the most versatile. It should take care of most things on your bicycle. However, I recommend checking your bicycle before and after each ride. This may negate the need for tools. And breaking down far from home.

Where will you carry this stuff? If you have a companion to cycle with-have him/her carry it!
Or, the best solution is to have an under-the-seat "wedge" bag. These are designed to strap to the seat rails. Or, you can strap a camelback on and this has a dual purpose. It holds your cycling stuff and fluids.

Carrying adequate fluids to remain hydrated is as crucial as a spare inner tube. Without the proper hydration, the bike may be able to complete the ride, but you may not. Fluids are a matter of personal preference and requirement. Obviously, in hot climates, more is better when cycling over an hour. For this reason, the camelback or similar product is ideal. They hold more liquid than two large water bottles.

Sometimes, even the most well-prepared bicycle rider experiences something that is not fixable on the road. For this, you need the most important tool of all: the cell phone!
Never leave for a ride without it.

Learn more about this author, Terry Robinson.
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