Its always good to be prepared for the unexpected.

Yes

Spare Tube:
- Some flats are not patchable - since I switched to flat-resistant tires the far fewer flats I get usually aren't patchable. For example if you get a flat right where the tube and the tube valve stem come together, and you simply cannot patch that.
- So if you want to be self sufficient, you *have* to carry a spare tube.

Patch Kit:
- Sometimes you change the tube and find out that you thought you got the thing that caused the puncture out, but you didn't, and you end up with another flat.
- Sometimes you legitimately get a 2nd flat on the ride (it's weird how they come in groups even if they're unrelated).
- Sometimes that other guy you're biking with has a flat, and you don't want to give him your tube and not have a tube, but you also don't want to insist he call for a ride or something.
- And the bottom line is that the quick apply patch kits are the size of the postage stamp, like 1mm tall or so, and cost $5 - once you're carrying a tube a patch kit is inconsequential in size.

Personally, I can't imagine not carrying both - I mean I'd be more likely to have a reason to carry neither than to have a reason not to carry both. :-)

Yep, it can work, although it's very much like a temporary car spare tire -- ride it carefully and get a new tire ASAP. As strong as dollar bills are, they'll shred apart between the tire and tube. I've heard duct tape is way better.

(Can we get four pages out of this thread? People must be bored this winter. :lol: )

- Scott

it's called peace of mind
 

i ride on bike paths, long distances. not to many have a lbs near by.
i carry a new tube. tube patches,tire patches,tire irons and a mini pump.
you'll never know what you're going need to repair a flat. rather than wishing you have brought them with you. it's better than walking back to my car or phoning for help.
so i try to "cover my butt."
remember the boy scouts moto while riding far from home "BE PREPARED" :thumb:

And this one pales in comparison to the Bike Taken Out of Store thread.

Should be re-titled: "Dude, where's my bike?"