Originally Posted by
moleman76
Spend the money you've saved on not buying a tire and outfit yourself with pump, tire "irons", patch kit, and a spare tube. [and under-seat bag to store them in, if you don't have such] Next rock might be be a longer walk away from home.
I'm a strong believer in carrying a replacement inner tube with you even if you have ZERO mechanical ability and completely lack any ability to fix your own flats. If you ride any place where there is a significant number of cyclists, and if you have a replacement tube that matches your bike, you have an excellent chance that somebody will come by who is both willing and able to help you.
I can remember at least a couple of instances when I had so many offers to help that I wanted to scream: "I'm a bike mechanic! Leave me alone and let me fix it!"