Originally Posted by
datlas
On today's ride, it struck me that there are sometimes "quirky" things we cyclists do that are a good idea (possibly) but not commonly known or done.
Here is one of mine:
After riding near glass or even shardy looking grit, I reach down with my hand and briefly brush off the front and rear tires. This loosens any sharps before they get into the tread and, I believe, reduces the risk of flat tires. The down side is you may wear out your glove or even slightly injure your hand (if you use direct skin contact) but for me it's worthwhile.
I don't ever see my friends do this. It's a habit I picked up from my cycling days in Baltimore back in the 1980's where broken glass on the streets was common.
Feel free to critique and/or post your own gems of wisdom that are not commonly known.
I think it was the legendary Jobst Brandt who commented that by the time you are able to reach down and place a gloved hand onto the tire, it’s made many, many revolutions and whatever puncture is going to happen, has. Stopped doing this maybe 15 years ago, but then I cannot recall the last time I had a front flat.
My only gem is if you are out to dinner (remember going out to dinner ?) and the they give you those packaged hand wipes, as for some extra, stick in your seat bag to clean your hands after a mechanical.