Improvisation isn’t restricted to music. Most of us do it daily; and it’s a handy skill during a bicycle tour.

Sometimes something breaks; and there’s no way to replace/fix it right away. Yet the tour must go on! 

Then it’s time to get inventive. Once my hybrid’s kick stand gave way while I had the bike parked at work. The stand was bent; and when I put it in the “up” position, it dangled in a manner that meant it was in the way. I had to secure it somehow.

Fortunately I had my reflective ankle bands with me. I used one to fasten the kickstand to the chain stay until I could get to the bike shop. 

That’s only a very small example. Some riders have to find a way to rig up a temporary derailer; or deal with brake pads that start rubbing. A good way to minimize the risks for such problems is a good tune-up before the tour.

It isn’t always the bicycles that go wrong. Camping equipment can cause problems. For instance, what do you do if your tent starts to leak? And, heaven forbid, did you forget an important item? That can make for a frustrating trip, no doubt.

I resorted to improvisation at the salvage store this morning. I usually bring along some sort of cooler; and today I forgot it. What to do?

I decided to get a bag of frozen corn; and I put the heat-vulnerable items in a bag with it. It worked pretty well. The salami stayed cool; and the chocolate-y things didn’t melt.

I hope I don’t need to resort to improvisation tomorrow. It won’t be easy when I’m twenty miles from home!