As long-distance cyclists, the thinner the tires, the better (for getting around fast and with the least amount of effort).

But, the thinner the tire, the more likely you are to face a flat tire during routine pedaling.

So rule #1 is: Know how to change your own flat tire!

I (and some of my friends) "cheated" though... by carrying little pressurized air cartridges in our bike bags, which makes airing up after you change out the tube a cinch! The really serious cyclists wouldn't be caught dead changing a flat without manually using a plunger-like air pump to air up their tires.

...Even though cycling was such a big part of my life, I always kept it in perspective and did it just for fun. I'm certain that I've been laughed at many times by the "true" cyclists out there, because I have all the nifty little gadgets, and I've customized my bike in such a way that I stick out like a sore thumb when I'm riding. (and I still use a kickstand!)