Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 12,286
Likes: 317
From: Lake Geneva, WI
Bikes: Ridley Helium SLX, Canyon Endurance SL, De Rosa Professional, Eddy Merckx Corsa Extra, Schwinn Paramount (1 painted, 1 chrome), Peugeot PX10, Serotta Nova X, Simoncini Cyclocross Special, Raleigh Roker, Pedal Force CG2 and CX2
I carry a compact set of tools, plus the usual spares. However, I have found my bikes to be very reliable. Not all of my bikes are new and even my 1974 Schwinn Paramount and 1987 Trek are ready for a century at all times, once I put air in the tires.
When I started riding long distances, I was very concerned about flats and other problems. Those concerns were unfounded. I will get a flat about every 1000 miles, and changing a tube takes ten minutes. Now I have no real concern about my bikes.
I do have strong wheels 32 or 36 spoke wheels and good quality bikes. But any bike, above the department store junk level, should be very reliable.
Last edited by Barrettscv; 03-03-11 at 09:45 AM.