Had a situation last week that got me thinking about what tools I should be carrying on my bike. I'm all about PM... bike shouldn't be breaking on me en route anywhere, so I don't carry tools. Bike's mostly used for commuting 10 miles each way.
On my way to lunch, pull into the parking lot. Tire's going "click click click." Put the bike on the stand, find a big 'ole 10 penny nail stuck in it. One of the ones with a double head (for disassembly), it's gone in at an angle so in addition to being in the tire, is making the wheel out of round, since the massive head is sticking out, so it's not really rideable.
Go to the gas station, buy a tire plug kit and borrow a pair of pliers. Get the nail out... no air leak. It had gone through the nice fat chicken strips on the side at an angle. So I lucked out.
Now I'm thinking I should be carrying a pair of pliers and the tire plug kit when I'm out and about, as well as a CO2 inflater. Maybe a spare spark plug and wrench too in case some crackhead steals a plug :)
Anyone else carry this stuff with them for everyday riding? What are the items that any commuter cycle should be carrying with them?
Not something I carry everyday but here is my motorcycle tool kit I carry in a tank bag on longer rides. You could eliminate some tools for everyday use. http://gstwins.com/gsboard/index.php?topic=51259.msg580397#msg580397
-Jessie
Soundrider.com has lots of useful stuff for bikes. I bought a tire plugging kit that I carry when going on long rides.
http://store.mm411.com/
I used to carry all sorts of breakdown gear around with me but then one day I had an Epiphany and it all changed. These days I generally only bother with two very lightweight items both of which will easily fit in one pocket. When used together and assuming you are not to far from civilisation these two items WILL quickly resolve ANY breakdown related problem you are ever likely to encounter.
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And if they cant fix it roadside they will trailer you home...win win win :thumb: Cost?....about 40 notes a year (plus the price of phone call)......Not worth getting your hands dirty :D