What's in the Pack?

Well, I was thinking about what a cyclist would carry with them in regards to breakdowns on the road or trail. The image you see above is a shot of the tools and my hydration pack. It is what I generally always carry when I am out riding on the trails. Let's see, the pack is always pre-loaded with the following: a Park PPM-1 Toolkit consisting of a pair of tire levers, a schwanky non-articulating multi-tool, a glueless patchkit, a spoke tool and a chain tool (not shown since I just recently installed a chain and it is in my bike toolbox) in a handy little wallet; added are several chain links, a standard patch kit, spare tube and a mini-pump. Also in the pack goes my keys, drink, ID and several energy gels depending on the length of the ride.

In contrast, my road bike has a frame pump on the bike (no way do I want to go to 110psi with a tiny pump) and in a tiny seat bag is stuffed a spare tube, tire levers a couple of $1 bills, two quarters and a Crank Brothers Multi-Tool 17. The CBMT-17 received design awards but for the life of me, I dislike using any. My biggest beef is the fact that they tend to wobble a bit in use and second, you have to flip out each tool every stinking time you use it. The Park tool is one piece and not articulating. Pick tool and use. I also only use a single water bottle unless it is a terribly long ride, instead banking on rest stops and gas stations. Gels and snacks belong in the jersey pockets.