Trailside Repair Kit
When you’re out on the trail, it’s not a matter “if” you’re going to have a breakdown, it’s a matter of “when”. Thankfully, most trailside repairs are easy to fix if you have a simple toolkit with you.
I have a basic toolkit for shorter rides, rides that are short enough that walking or scooting the bike home isn’t that big of deal if you have a problem you can’t fix. I carry the tools that will fix the most likely repairs, but leave the extra stuff home to save room and weight. These items include a spare tube, tire levers, a multi-tool, a pump, and material to temporarily fix a torn tire sidewall.
Trailside Repair Kit
For longer rides, where walking home or ruining the ride is not an option, I add a few more items. A patch kit, chain tool (if your multi tool doesn’t already have one), spare clipless pedal cleat bolts, and a Leatherman style tool that includes pliers and a knife. Singlespeeders may want to include spare chain links…you can make a multi-geared chain shorter, but can’t on a single speed.
I prefer to carry my tools in a waist pack, since I frequently switch bikes and don’t like the rattling of tools going down bumpy trails; however, under the seat bags work pretty well too if you have enough room in them. Be prepared, and don’t assume your buddies will have everything you need!
Anything I’m missing? What do you carry in your repair kit?
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About The Author
I keep a small amount of electrical tape in my bag in case I need to fasten something on that broke off like a limb or a bottle cage. I keep zippy ties with me for the same purpose too.
I carry a spare chain pin or two, a small roll of Tums and a couple Lactaid Ultra tabs for those spur-of-the-moment ice cream stops!
Oh, insurance card and old driver’s license also.
A foot or two of duct tape wrapped around a pump or a tire lever can be a real life saver some days.And having a few zip ties available is always a good idea.
For longer trail rides, I also like to have a couple of small bandages and some ibuprofen. Not for me, of course. For my clumsy friends. Yeah, that’s the ticket!