Originally Posted by
Phamilton
I've never used CO2 but have considered it. It's good to hear some of the drawbacks. I carry a spare tube and mini pump with me. It takes approx 37 million pumps to get a 35mm tire to 75 psi. I'm not sure which would be more frustrating, physically exhausting myself using the mini pump or driving myself mad with CO2. I can see sometimes why some people go to such great lengths to avoid punctures (liners, slime, ultra heavy tires, etc).
Carry both would be the most convenient. It's just frustrating when you waste the cartridges, and then you have to worry that you might not be able to even fix the flat. I keep a larger mini-pump on my commuter, and have been carrying the CO2 on the road bike. Mainly because it fits the saddle bag.
I don't usually get flats very often, so I think I'm willing to do the 37 million pumps if it keeps my mind peaceful. Maybe more with the tiny pump that I ordered.