Originally Posted by
genejockey
Counterpoint: I had a RD cable break 8 miles from home, with a couple hills I could not manage in 39x12. So I used my chain tool to make my bike into a single speed 39 x 17, and got home. This was in the days before everyone had a cell phone, and no pay phones in any direction for at least 5 miles, so I had to either find a way to ride, or walk.
or you could have wedged a stick into the der, like many of us have done.... i've seen a broken cable get tied around the brake bridge too.
that tie job was because of the infamous "shift cable broke inside the Brifter!" we all should know of.
i walked 7 miles after a double flat once... that event made me buy a small pump, and begin carrying patches and irons, or at least one spare sew-up, religiously.
i ride in regular hiking or running shoes and use old style toe clips.. no cleats to deal with..