I took a new route very early this morning that took me across train tracks for the first time. Well, I took them too fast/hard and I got a pinch flat, even with fully inflated tubes. This gave me the opportunity to change a tube someplace other than my garage where I had practiced once. I got to do it in a dimly lit parking lot near the train tracks. It took me 15 minutes, my hands were covered in dirt and grease, but I got it done. I think I was prouder of getting that done than the first time I did my 22 mile one-way commute.

After I got on my way, I felt thankful that I didn't wreck (I never felt out of control) and that I only had one flat. My lesson-learned today is to slow down when in unfamiliar areas. I'm also happy that I took the time earlier this summer to practice changing a tube. And, I am glad that I had the tools (pump, lever and a spare tube) for this situation.

(p.s. - I went to my LBS during my lunch today to pick up a new tube. They gave me a new one for free. Another perk for buying from an LBS that is family owned.)

Well done!

Nice outcome, not inconveniently timed either. You may want to use a floor pump with gauge to make sure you really have enough pressure. The only pinchflats I've had have been user error of not having enough pressure. Cheers

E.S is right: pinch flats are caused not just by the road hazard but in combination with pressure that's too low. You can completely prevent them.

Another factor may have been that I had 25/32 tubes in there, versus the 19/23 that is in there now. I left them in there after I switched my tires from 28's to 23's. Maybe I should switch the front this weekend.

A 44-mile rt commute is nothing to sneeze at, and speed/efficiency become a bigger factor in commutes of that distance, but I wouldn't consider running 23mm tires again for my commutes. I used to do it, but it resulted in too many flats for me and 28s make for a more forgiving ride. I'm not currently commuting on anything less than 32s.