Add bike tools for an extended trip
Add bike tools for an extended trip
As biking becomes more popular, many riders are discovering the enjoyment in taking extended trips on their bikes. If you're planning a bike trip that will last for more than a day or two, you need to add some additional tools and parts to your emergency tool kit.
Which tools you should take depends on where you're biking and for how long. If you'll be passing through a lot of small towns, chances are pretty good that you can find a local bike shop to help you in a jam. Dennis has taken extended trips through Europe where he's been able to pack very few tools because of the popularity of biking and the large number of local bike shops along the way. Once, on the outskirts of Limerick, Ireland, he had a minor accident and ruined some spokes. A passerby stopped to help and eventually took Dennis and his bike to a bike shop in town. After Dennis's bike was repaired, the friendly passerby invited him back to his house where his family gave Dennis a warm bed and a traditional Irish breakfast the next morning. Although we don't recommend having an accident to meet people, this was one of the highlights of Dennis's time in Ireland.
Although, in many cases, you'll be able to find help if you break down on the side of the road, you're better off being ready to handle the repair on your own. For extended trips, we recommend having everything from the preceding section, as well as the following additional tools:
Spare tire: A number of companies make tires that can be folded and packed away. Surprisingly enough, folding tires are often actually betterquality tires, just with a foldable Kevlar bead instead of a stiff wire bead.
Extra tubes: If you ride across something on the road that blows out a tube, there is always a chance that you'll hit it with your back tire as well, so keep two, just in case.
Chain tool: A longer trip increases your chances of having issues with your chain, and you'll need this tool to take it apart and reconnect it.
Chain links and rivets: If you have issues with your chain, you may need to replace links. Have extra rivets or connecting links available for when you reconnect the chain.
Spare spokes: In our experience, spoke problems are one of the top three or four issues that you'll encounter on an extended trip. Keep at least two spare spokes on hand. Be sure to confirm what sizes you need.
On some bikes, the size of the spokes can differ on the front and rear wheels and even within the same wheel.
Spare cables: If you're on an extended trip, your bike will likely be packed down with extra weight, which puts additional strain on your cables. Pack a replacement cable for the brakes and one for the derailleur.
Lubrication: You'll want to keep the parts of your bike especially the chain properly lubricated during your trip.
Duct tape: This is the all-purpose MacGyver tool. If you have to hold something together on your bike until you get to the next town, duct tape may do the job. Enjoy the Exotic Leisure Time Five European Countries Bid Luxury Caribbean All Inclusive Holidays Are A Steal Of a Deal Take a Price Break On Your Next Luxury Morocco Holidays Cheap Caribbean Holiday Deals Every Day Of the Year Luxury USA Holidays Cut Down To Size With All Inclusive Rates Villa Canggu Bali - Fantastic Holiday Memories Are Made Here! Choose Luxury Barbados All Inclusive Holidays Because You're Worth It Great Offers For Your Disney World Trip Top Five Attractions to Visit on Your Malaysia Genting Tour Top Places to Visit on North East India Tours Cheap International Holidays, No More a Dream Watch American Idol Season 10 Episode 14 IN HQ COPY