Don’t let a tipover or minor crash strand you in the middle of nowhere. By packing a few key tools in a fanny pack or backpack, experienced riders are usually back on the trail in no time. Here are our top-10 must-haves.
1. Spare tube (21 inch): If you only carry one, make it a front because it will work in both tires.
2. Tire irons (at least two, three are better): Good levers (like Motion Pro’s) make short work of tough sidewalls.
3. Compact bicycle hand pump/or CO2: A manual pump will always pump, but if space is tight, CO2 is more compact.
4. Valve-stem remover: Speeds up the tire-changing process if the tube isn’t totally flat.
5. J-B Weld: Punch a hole in an engine case and this epoxy can save your day.
6. Tools (specific to your bike): Figure out what size wrenches you need to remove wheels, adjust chain, bars, brakes, levers, bodywork, etc…
7. Safety wire and/or zip-ties: You would be shocked by the things that can be fixed with these items.
8. Duct tape: Peel a couple of feet off the roll and fold it into a nice compact, flat square.
9. Spare nuts and bolts: A few common nuts and bolts can be used for a variety of repairs.
10. Spare clutch and brake levers: Carry one of each. They are easy to break and suck to ride without.
