Your original post implied you were uncomfortable getting to far from civilization on your bike because you didn't know how to deal with it breaking. I certainly had better things to do them strip my bike and put it back together but now I can do it. I absolutely would recomend patronizing your LBS but if you want to be comfortable you have to bight the bullet and learn. I also have a family of four so simple tune ups and cleanings can get spendy and I cook at home because I am cheap.(and I have earned it)