Originally Posted by ColinJ

I reckon your problems started there!

I wouldn't choose to extend a ride on dodgy tyres - I've seen (and heard!) too many tubes bulge through split tyres and explode. I would turn round and ride back slowly.

I was out on a group ride recently when one of the riders badly split his tyre. We had to leave him and ride 2 hours back to the van, then it was an hour's round trip to pick him up. There were 15 of us and not one of us had a spare tyre. I think I might start carrying one on long rides in future; probably an old one that is almost worn out, but would be okay to finish a ride on.