If I learned anything...

I learned a couple of things after helping stranded biker girl who was without a cell phone, and no clue how to change a flat. I learned that I HAVE TO BE MORE PREPARED FOR THE BIG FLAT THAT WILL COME MY WAY EVENTUALLY.

Also, I walked away knowing to always charge my cell before leaving home. I also bought a backpack to carry a light pair of shorts and some lightweight shoes...her feet were killing her from walking in cycling shoes for three miles before I helped her. Then there is the issue that she wished she had a pair of shorts to put OVER the spandex since she was WAY more aware that her butt was jiggling and wiggling while taking the heel and toe express home.

I learned I should always be prepared to fix flat, cover my giggies and take comfortable shoe in case I have to walk home. If your feet hurt, you hurt all over.

It always amazes me how people folks (both men and women) don't know how to do simple repairs. I guess if you always ride in a group it's not such a problem but if riding alone, gotta be able to repair at least a flat. It's not that hard. Just takes some practice. I've come across folks with flats and are clueless and I take the time to give them alittle lesson. I make them do the repair but I help them out and show them what to do. I also explain what they should be carrying (at a minimum a tube, an iron and a cartridge). Hope the lesson is appreciate but oh well, beggars can't be chosers! :rolleyes:

I'm glad you learned what to do, rivergrl. Do you have a plan for how to learn to change a flat, use a chain tool, etc.? REI offers free classes, as do many local bike shops. There are also lots of good advice here--see FreshNewbie's story of how she taught herself to change a tire (in the Open Discussion forums today).

Is there a good site online with pix on how to use a chain tool?

I'm not sure...check Sheldon Brown or google images ("chain tool"). The chain tool pushes the little peg out of the chain link (but not all the way) so that the chain will come apart. Then it pushes it back in once you've fixed the chain. You get dirty and a bit greasy.

If your chain breaks, you can shorten it by one link and it will get you home (unless you ride a single-speed, in which case sometimes the chain becomes too short).

Once you master fixing flats, I suggest practicing using the chain tool on an old chain.

--Julie