Didn't see one of these, and they are always good to repeat. Here are some of mine:
(1) Use baby powder when mounting new tires. The tubes don't stick to tire and tend to last a lot longer.
(2) Always pre-mount tires before you put in a tube. Loosens them up so you don't pinch tubes.
(3) Patch kits are very versatile. I use the green Tip Top brand (large). Can fit money, house key, and a couple of allen wrenches.
(4) Change chains and handlebars often. I go every year on chains and
every two on bars (ride about 5000 miles a year) on bikes that are ridden
regularly. Great piece of mind for very little money.
(5) Learn how to wrench a little. Everyone, male or female, should be
able to do some basic maintenance (change a flat, make minor adjustments).
There are great books on the subject that remove a lot of the mystery.
Not only will you feel more confident, but you'll save money. You'll also become more intuitive as to when things are wrong. Minor problems (loose
spokes, hubs, bottom bracket) can turn into significant damage if not
caught early.
Oh, yeah. More than 1/2 the battle is having bike specific tools.
(spoke wrenches, bb tools, cone wrenches, cog tools, chain whips,
etc.). I've seen some great tool sets for as little as $50. Outstanding investment considering the cost of shop time. ($50 an hour).
Happy riding!