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Repair Kit
Submitted by BikeMentor on Thu, 01/28/2010 - 00:00. Equipment

The easiest way to deal with a flat tire or mechanical problem is to take advantage of the bike racks on all CATS buses, but a small tool kit isn't a bad idea if you've got far to ride. Some of our favorite items:

  • Pump (CO2 or manual).
  • Bike tube.
  • Patch kit.
  • Tire levers.
  • Allen wrench set or bike multi-tool (Alien or similar).
  • Master link (for chain).
  • Shop rag or shopping bag to hold tools and parts during repairs.

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The Essentials Are:

Submitted by AHands on Sat, 12/11/2004 - 21:03.
The essentials are simply these three:
  • Pump,
  • Tube and
  • Tire Levers
(and experience using them) anything else is "nice to have".

That said, to the "nice to have" list, I'd add a tire boot, cell-phone (with WATERPROOF case!), a headlamp that can double as a flashlight, ATM/credit card and a mental note as to any cycling shops en route and their operating hours. And $5 emergency cash, in case you need catch the bus, etc... A handfull of nylon wire ties ("zip ties") never hurt.

Keep a spare tube in your desk drawer at work, another at home and two in your bag, and you've got it beat!

But don't let it get so heavy that you stop enjoying the ride!

Here in Raleigh, the Triangle Transit Authority has begun a "Guaranteed Emergency Ride Home" program for commuters who use alternative transportation. They have an agreement with local cabbies to accept city-issued vouchers. If Charlotte-Mecklenburg hasn't done that—complain!

-Adrian Hands
Raleigh NC USA
Mi Pagina de la Bicicleta

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