Got stranded at a trailhead in Moab because I skipped a basic check

Ngl, I thought I was being smart by saving $50 and not taking my bike to the shop before a trip to Moab last month. First day out, my derailleur hanger snapped 8 miles from the trailhead with no cell service. Had to walk my bike back in 95 degree heat because I ignored the slight wobble I noticed the week before. Now I always check the hanger alignment and bolt tightness before any ride over 20 miles. Anyone else learned this lesson the hard way or am I just the dummy here?

2 comments

2 Comments

robinson.matthew1d ago

My buddy Jake did almost the exact same thing outside of Fruita last spring. He had this creaky noise from his rear wheel for like two weeks and just kept saying "it'll be fine." Well 6 miles in, his freehub body completely locked up and he had to coast downhill backwards to get back to the truck. He still brings it up every time someone mentions skipping a pre-ride check.

miller.eva9h ago

Read that same story on a forum somewhere, pretty common mistake.