I received a major lesson in being prepared this week when I showed up for a group mountain bike ride and hadn’t checked my tool bag for proper tire emergency items. Murphy’s Law took effect just minutes after I mentioned to my friends that, “I hardly ever get flats!” I was having a great ride when I suddenly started feeling that unmistakable jolt of rim hitting rock. I had a flat. I quickly pulled over, flipped the bike and took off my back wheel. I went to my tool bag to find it totally empty. I had cleaned it recently and put it on the bike to dry and that’s as far as I got in that process. Of course I had also mentioned to my buddies that I didn’t feel like I needed 29 inch wheels like they had which meant that no one else had 26 inch wheels. There was no proper spare, so someone came up with a patch kit but it didn’t take. We were about to stick a 29 tube in when I decided that I had held up the ride long enough and deserved the walk of shame back to the truck (about 2 miles). I started walking.
I survived and I really appreciate everyone hanging around while I struggled with my ineptitude and forgetfulness. I took a proper ribbing on the message boards the next day, I have atoned for my sins. I promise I will try to be a bit more prepared next time. Yes, Lisa, you already wrote about this, I will do better. I will take my inspiration from the following photos. Have a great weekend and don’t forget all your stuff.
We’ll be at the Warrior Dash on Saturday and Cyclofemme on Sunday.
One Response
That yellow van is awesome. Two boats on top, two bikes on back, and your sweetie by your side… I could see roaming out west for months at a time.