To change a flat tire, you'll need at a minimum three things:

1. A spare tube that is the correct size and valve type for your bike. (Always protect your spare tube from puncture while it is stored on your bike).
2. A pump.
3. Tire levers. Always carry all three of these thigns on your rides.

For a cyclist, the term "flat" might mean a smooth, level road to ride on, but more often than not if you hear that word while on a ride, it means somebody has a flat tire and the ride stops to complete the repair.

Ideally you would discover a flat tire while at home so you can repair it at your leisure. Usually it happens out on the road, maybe on the way to work, or as the sun is going down or as it begins to rain. You need to be prepared to do a flat tire repair in any situation.

It is time for the Oscars, so how about a movie bike blog?

I have seen several movies this year that feature cycling. One that is on some lists of best cycling movies is "2-Seconds." It is a French film, but takes place mostly in Montreal.

There is a very serious threat to cycling - and  walking - safely on our streets.

Cyclists benefit from projects funded by Congress via the transportation bill. The sub-committee on transportation in the House of Representatives has sent a bill to congress that removes all funds for projects not related to use of road by cars and trucks. No money for bicycle transit of any kind will be available if this bill is made law.