I carry a patch kit and spare tubes (2), either new tubes or patched tubes. As of now I have new tubes, but as I patch a tube, it will become a spare tube in my kit. I do have an old rim and tire, so that after patching a tube I install it on the old wheel and allow it to sit over night -- I don't like blowing up tubes outside of a wheel (rim and tire).

BTW, I also no longer buy patch kits from the bike shop, they're actually cheaper in auto stores, and are basically the same thing. The only time I had real problems with patch kits is when I tried out the glue-less patches....they just didn't work for me.


P.S. Although I carry a patch kit, I never plan to use it, only if I have no choice. I replace the tube with the spare tube and patch the hole when I get home.



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