[QUOTE=tjspiel;14262827]
There's no point in carrying a chain breaker or even a multi-tool if you don't know how to use one. I personally think that being able to change a tire is a really-really good to have skill if you're going to be a commuter.
A daily cycling commuter will eventually have the need to know how to use Park tools, as well. After many years of commuting, hundreds of dollars could be saved. Possessing a set of Park tools at home can only improve one's efficiency and wealth.
That being said, my guess is that maybe 50% of the people who commute to my office would bother to change a flat if they got one on the way to work. Their backup is a cell phone. And you know what? That's OK.
If your back up plan is a cell phone, then I'd say you are at a distinct disadvantage. As such, you will be held at the mercy of your LBS, forever...
As many times as I show my wife how to change a flat, she wouldn't do it unless she had no other option. She goes to work early and she'd have no problem waking me from a nice to slumber to go rescue her. Or if she was close enough to work or home, she'd just walk.
You must constantly prove your endless love and devotion!
Same with my 12 year old son. He bikes to school. Theoretically at least he could change a flat, but if he got one, he'd call me or my wife. That does remind me though. I should have him change one again just to prove to me, and more importantly to him, that he can do it.
He was sent to you as both a gift and a test from God!
Oh, and I think it's a good idea to carry a spare tube even if you wouldn't change it yourself. Maybe a good samaritan would come along and change it for you.
Now that's a stellar idea! I couldn't agree more!
