I am so bummed out, like I have quite bad depression and can get completely sent off the rails by something like this. But at the end of the day, I’m just proud I got there safe. It was 110k of riding today, I started in Salmon Arm but only intended to get to a campsite near Craigellachie. I got bad vibes from it so I decided to press on and get myself a hotel in Revelstoke.
I’m quite happy that it happened where it did and not in the middle of nowhere… I patched it with a Park Tool super patch and also with the traditional glue type. I used up all my CO2 after thinking I’d patched it good, but nothing would hold. I was wishing I’d brought some spare tubes. I also scuffed up my fancy new bar ends too from pushing the pump so vigorously it moved the bike. I’m quite angry at myself for making such a botched job of it ðŸ˜
A tough moment, for sure. But I will be off to get it fixed first thing tomorrow and then I’ll feel better. This probably means a new tire. Marathon plus? 😂
Anyways, now I’m settled in the motel, time for an emotional support pizza.
by DuckDuckSnoo
13 Comments
You should carry some flex seal tape with you, it’s a lifesaver. Works for tubes, tires and torn paniers.
Battle scars are a huge component of what makes that bike yours. You might be feeling a bit off-kilter but you made it to a safe place to sleep, learned some lessons, and held it all together. Nice work.
You can find tire pumps that have a bit of retractable hose between the valve connection and the pump chamber. Aside from letting you pump without shaking your bike around, I find they’re easier and more comfortable too.
Looking forward to seeing more!
I find that after so many km’s the inner tube gets stretched out so much that it’s impossible not to have the rim pinch the tube the second you pump it up. Always have at least one spare one, and retire it once it gets to that stretchy point, patch until that point. I had patches on patches on patches on a tour from Toronto-ish to Mexico lol
It’s worth upgrading the tires. Marathon Plus are pretty good, Plus Tour have even higher puncture resistance if you don’t mind a bit more rolling resistance.
I always carry a patch kit, four tubes and a foldable spare tire with me.
Bummer. After just over 1,800 miles I got my first flat of the year this afternoon. But I was lucky in that I was only about a mile from a bike shop and it wasn’t too hot.
You’ll talk about this bad day and it’ll be a memory you’ll eventually remember best.
Just sending support. You did great when things sucked. Looks like there are several bike shops in Revelstoke, so soon you’ll be buying a few tubes and maybe (a) new tire(s), and some flex tape, getting those scratches buffed out, and enjoying the camaraderie of other cyclists. The drop in mood is super tough, and I’m hoping that recovery pizza went a long way in giving you some comfort. Revelstoke is a cool place; hope you can take a day or two to enjoy.
I just had the same experience with a tubeless blowout on the C&O a few weeks ago, though I was only 3 miles from civilization. Had a peaceful walk into town! Enjoy the pizza.
Hey OP how ya doing today?
Dollar bills work well as tire boots.
That campsite( by the last spike) is actually really nice has a nice river going through it. Never had issues, mind you it’s been a long time since I’ve stayed there! Glad you made it safely to Revy. Great town, enjoy!
This is basically my worst fear while on tour. But you were so close to your stop and it all worked out! Enjoy the pizza and hit the road strong tomorrow.
Just curious: Were you trying to repair the puncture and blowout while the rear wheel was still on the bike?
Always a good outcome when you end up safely at your destination for the day!