The most common bicycle breakdowns on the Camino de Santiago
Knowing the most common mechanical problems of the bicycle is essential. The Camino de Santiago subjects the bicycle to continuous wear and tear.
Punctures and blowouts: The pilgrim’s number 1 enemy
A punctured tire is the most frequent breakdown on the Camino de Santiago. The routes of the Way are dirt areas with loose stones, glass shards, or nails. Additionally, a blowout can occur—a serious tire rupture that usually happens when hitting a sharp edge or a stone.
To prevent this situation, it is recommended to fit quality tires with puncture protection and maintain the proper air pressure.
Problems with brakes on long descents
The Camino de Santiago contains long and technical descents. On this type of downhill, the brakes work to their limit, especially if you are carrying weight. The brake pads wear out quickly, and the discs can overheat, losing their effectiveness.
It is essential to check the condition of the brake pads before starting the stage and always carry spares. If during the stage you notice that the brakes are not responding, stop and let them cool down.
Broken spokes: Why does it happen when carrying weight?
Spokes are a very delicate component, especially when adding the weight of the panniers. A strong hit can cause one or more spokes to break. This destabilizes the wheel and can render the bicycle useless if not fixed in time. It is essential to check the spoke tension before setting out on a stage and to carry a few spares.
Survival kit to deal with any bicycle breakdown on the Camino de Santiago
When doing the Camino de Santiago by bicycle, it is essential to carry a good tool kit and spare parts. At a minimum, carry the essentials to solve frequent breakdowns.
Essential tools
- Multi-tool with Allen keys (4, 5, and 6 mm are the most used) and screwdrivers.
- Spoke wrench (or a removable one)
- Tire levers (two or three, made of sturdy plastic)
- Floor pump or hand pump
- Chain breaker
- Hub wrench for bolt-on wheels
Spare parts that cannot be missing
- Spare inner tube (at least 2)
- Spare patches and glue for punctures
- Spare brake pads
- Spare spokes
- Quick chain link to repair a break
- Spare brake and gear cable
How to repair a punctured tire in 10 minutes
A puncture is the most common breakdown when doing the Camino de Santiago, and if you know how to fix it, it will only take a few minutes.
Step by step:
- Stop the bicycle in a flat place.
- Remove the wheel.
- Completely deflate the inner tube and use tire levers to remove the tire from the rim (first one side, then the other).
- Remove the inner tube and inflate it slightly to locate the hole.
- Locate the object that caused the puncture and remove it from the tire.
- Patch the hole: clean the area, apply the glue, place the patch, and press down for one minute.
- Insert the patched inner tube back inside the tire.
- Mount the tire carefully, making sure not to pinch the inner tube between the tire and the rim.
- Inflate to the recommended pressure.
- Reinstall the wheel and check that the brakes are not rubbing.
What to do if a bicycle breakdown catches you on the Camino de Santiago in the middle of nowhere?
On certain occasions, the main problem is not the breakdown itself, but that you find yourself on an isolated stretch. Knowing what to do will help you stay calm and find a solution to the problem.
Action plan:
- Assess the severity of the breakdown. If the bicycle is not functional, do not force it.
- Walk (or pedal carefully) to the nearest town.
- Ask for help from other pilgrims. Cyclists often carry tools and spare parts.
- Use your mobile phone if you have coverage. Look for a workshop in the next town; some offer a pick-up service.
- Contact your bicycle insurance or travel insurance if it includes mechanical assistance.
Serious bicycle breakdowns during the Camino de Santiago: How to finish the stage if I can’t repair it?
We can encounter breakdowns that have no solution during the stage; there are certain problems that require a workshop or even changing the means of transport.
Alternatives:
- Find the nearest workshop. By checking the website of the Friends of the Camino Association or mobile apps like “Bicis del Camino,” you will find different workshops.
- Public transport. Different bus or train lines allow bicycles to be carried.
- Renting a bicycle. In large cities, there are bicycle rental shops. If the breakdown is very serious, you can rent a bicycle to finish the Camino.
- Roadside assistance. Different bicycle insurance policies offer tow truck or pick-up services.
