Don’t Get Stranded on the Pathway

It is the middle of summer and the multi-use pathways are packed with cyclists, including myself. I often assist people on the trail who have mechanical issues with their bike. My abilities are fairly limited, but I do carry the tools necessary to fix a tire, tighten some screws, and a first aid kit to fix up any riders in need. Given that many riders are wearing footwear that makes it fairly hard to walk (road bike shoes), the summer heat, and the isolation in certain areas of the pathway, it is important that riders think about their safety in mind when they set out. I am going to propose an items that fit in a seat pack to help you stay safe without adding too much weight.

My first recommendation is to bring plenty of water, especially when it is hot outside. There is a scenario where you get stranded by a mechanical issue where it is a fairly long walk to get to help. A small water bottle may be sufficient for the ride that you planned, but it can be insufficient if you need to walk instead of cycle. Bringing extra water can add on significant weight, which is not desirable for many cyclists. My recommendation would be to bring a few water purification tablets. They don’t weigh much, but can really help you in a pinch. Most of the trail is near the river and the pills can take care of most of the issues with the water (virus and bacteria). It is definitely better than dehydration.

The most common problem I see on the trail is a flat tire. I hesitate to recommend having a full tube replacement kit (levers, tube/patch kit, air supply, etc.) and gaining the knowledge to use them. Expecting people to know how to replace or patch a tube is big deterrent to cycling. I will simply recommend having a tube handy. Most of the time, if you have a flat tire, you can flag someone down for help or have someone offer to help. Patching a tube in the field takes a long time for the glue to cure and your Good Samaritan may not have the time to help you. Having a tube handy will make helping you much easier for someone to help. I can change a tube in ten minutes and I am not particularly good at it. Patching a tire will take me 30 minutes including several failed attempts. Even if you don’t know how to replace a tire, go to your local bike store and get one that fits your wheel and include it in your kit.

The last thing, which almost everyone already brings, is a way to communicate with someone. Most people will have a cell phone on them and can call emergency services or someone to rescue them if the need arise. Never go out in a place where you may be alone without a means of communication. Also, always let someone know where you are going when you expect to be back.

One last recommendation is to register for CAA Bike Assist. It is relatively cheap ($30 a year), but you will need a way to call them.

I hope these tips were useful. Enjoy your ride!