My cross-country tour sparked a big talk about on-road repair kits

I was pedaling through the Utah desert when my rear wheel started making a awful noise! My riding partner, Jake, carries a huge bag with every tool you can think of, like spoke wrenches and a cassette tool. He fixed it right there on the spot. But our other friend, Lisa, rides with just a tiny multi-tool and some zip ties, arguing that extra weight slows you down on big days. Jake says being ready for anything beats pushing your bike for miles. Lisa thinks you can usually limp to the next town for a proper fix. I get both points, but watching Jake work made me lean his way that time. What do you all pack for long rides away from shops?

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1 Comment

noah_lee774h ago

Ever been stuck miles from nowhere with a broken bike? Honestly, I used to be like Lisa, packing light and hoping for the best. But last summer, I had a chain snap on a remote trail, and my multi-tool was useless. Tbh, I had to walk for hours in the heat before I found help. Now I carry more tools, even if it adds weight, because pushing a bike sucks. Ngl, after that, I see Jake's point about being ready for anything.