Fix your bike fast: Tools not to go on the trail without
by: Steve Thompson
Posted on: Wednesday, January 2nd, 2008 at 8:39 pm by: Steve Thompson
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If you love mountain biking, then you know nothing can ruin a ride faster than a bike malfunction, which can leave you stranded in the middle of nowhere. Responsible mountain biking means carrying the right tools with you whenever you head out so you can fix your bike fast and be back on the trail without losing much ground.
The following items are definitely useful—if not absolutely necessary—for safe and comfortable biking.
Tire tube
The tire tube is a great thing to have with you on the trail, even if you have a patch kit as well. It can make fixing that first flat much faster and will be necessary if you have a really bad flat. You can find inexpensive tubes at your local hardware or biking shop, and also online at Web sites like BicycleTires.com .
Regardless of the type of your bike, a good-quality tire tube shouldn’t cost you more than $6 and much less depending on where you shop. In addition to the tube itself, you’ll need a small square of sandpaper to increase the chances of your glue holding on the trail and an unopened tube of tire glue.
Tire patch kit
If you’re going to be mountain biking for long trips, you’ll need at least four or five patches for your bike tires in case of a flat. Most patch kits come with an assortment of patches to ensure you have what you need, but make sure to check the contents when you buy. Some also come with glue, Emory cloths and different size patches for maximum convenience.
The typical patch kit for your mountain bike will cost you around $4, but don’t look for the cheapest kit on the market. Self-adhesive patches, for example, are generally not trusted over rugged terrain, so don’t skimp on actual glue or cement to make sure you don’t have a second flat.
Tire levers
A basic plastic tire lever is essential for changing a flat on your mountain bike, especially if you aren’t very dexterous. You can use just about anything to pry the tire from your bicycle’s rim, but sharp or metal tools can puncture your tire and render it useless. A tire lever should cost you no more than $2, so it’s a safe investment.
Multi-tool
These space-saving tools will keep you from having to bring along an entire toolkit, and they can be slipped easily into a pocket of your jacket or your backpack. They serve many purposes, and most come equipped with such tools as Allen wrenches, Phillips screwdriver heads, spoke wrenches and chain breakers. Leatherman tools are some of the highest-quality multi-tools and can weigh anywhere from 6 to 12 ounces. Buying quality will definitely be a plus on the trail, so don’t skimp in this area.
Tire pump
A quality tire pump or air compressor is definitely a necessity on the road. If your tires become under pressurized, they are more prone to holes and punctures. If you keep your tires well inflated, you might not have to use the tools listed above. You can find a tire pump at your local hardware store, such as Home Depot, for under $10. You’ll want something small and compact to store in your backpack.
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