Originally Posted by livedarklions

Let me guess, Continental tires? They're notorious for being difficult in this way. I've gotten used to it, but Schwalbe are definitely easier.

What are you using for tire levers?

Slashed tire is definitely a different question than replacing a tube.

I've had situations where I couldn't fix the problem at the side of the road due to unforeseen circumstance (like getting hit by a car), and it sounds like you do what you can to avoid imposing on your friends. You've taken the through axle experience as a lesson learned, no doubt, which is what reasonable people do.

I hope some of this is helpful.