Originally Posted by
timmythology
So I am starting to notice that the main barrier for myself with long distance cycling, is my total lack of mechanical knowledge of bikes. Which can be a very major part of doing long distance rides in the middle of nowhere. Especially if something were to go wrong.
So now I am trying to gauge what the least amount of mechanical knowledge a person should have on long distance rides is. Especially at night, regardless of weather, in the middle of nowhere.
What's your comfort level?
Well, millions of people head out in cars and trucks every day, some probably heading to the middle of nowhere, and I doubt many have the knowledge, tools or parts to make repairs enroute.
That being said, bikes aren't extremely complex. The knowledge and tools can be obtained without a huge outlay of cash or time so I would think it would be well worth pursuing. Personally, I believe one of the best ways to learn bike maintenance is on a beater bike. They can be had cheaply (picked up a mid-90s Diamond Back Sorrento for $20 just last night which I am confident can be brought back to life with nothing but cleaning, lubing and tuning) and are great introductions to wrenching without the fear of messing up an expensive bike. Grab an old bike, buy some basic tools, read a book or go online for instructions and have at it.