Many people carry some sort of repair kit while riding their bicycle, but when’s the last time you compared yours with somebody else or really thought about it?
Here’s mine:
I keep everything in a Carousel Design Works bag, which is conveniently sized for this application and has a water-resistant zipper.
It’s pretty simple but fills my needs. Left to right: Tool bag, tube, pump, patch kit, basic multi-tool, steel core tire lever, Park mini chain tool, Park spoke wrench, small rag.
Most multi-tools that try to be an all-in-one tool kit generally suck, so I like to carry a dedicated chain tool and spoke wrench. My multi-tool is just an assortment of hex wrenches, and a phillips and flat head screwdriver.
On an actual tour I’d include a few more things, namely one or two extra spokes for the front and back wheels, two or three spare chain links and pins(I’ve snapped multiple SRAM chains and will not use them any more. Shimano chains use pins instead of master links, but it’s not a big deal.) since there is no derailer on my bike. Having the correct length chain is critical and simply removing a link is not an option with an internally geared drivetrain. I’d also bring a small one or two ounce bottle of chain lube and a few small M4(water bottle) and M5(less common but used on my rack mounts) fasteners.
For pumps, I’ve had good luck with Topeak Morph series and Lezyne brand. Both utilize a section of flexible hose between the main pump body and the head, making it less likely to rip the valve or break off the tip.
That’s mine, what’s in yours?
I love the morph pumps too. I think it makes them a lot easier to pump.
I usually bring similar stuff except my spoke wrench is a piece of junk and probably worse even than what you get on a chain tool. One problem I have with carrying this many tools is I end up using a pretty large bag for it which then accumulates crap, which I’m usually too lazy to clean out.
I like these posts on what things you bring, the last one really inspired me to try and pack lighter!
Hey Nick,
I’m glad you found it useful! It’s always tricky to bring enough stuff without overpacking.
Cool dude