Can you change a flat? (Page 2)

Oh yes - I don't bother with the patch kit. I used to carry it, but decided that if I am carrying a tube I might as well just use that.

A multitool is nice so that you have the necessary hex wrenches to raise/lower your seat and tighten the screws holding your bottle cages.  I've never done anything more than that, on the road.  You may not even need a multitool, a small wrench in one or two sizes may be enough.

Well, if we're getting on to general tools for rides, I carry a multitool, a chain tool, and my flat kit.

Call your local bike store. The kind patient mechanics at one here in town offer a regular class on changing a flat. It's not that hard to do, but it requires practice. Maybe your LBS will tutor you or offer a similar class. 

Haven't flatted on my road bike in almost 2 years... until last Saturday the 4th of July. I always carry a spare tube, 2 CO2s, a patch kit and 2 levers. It happend on a 16 mile ride on mile 11. Pffffffft, fffffft, fffffft! Rear tire, my first ride with my new Wheelbuilder.com disc(s), 90-someodd degrees, 5 miles from home, no shade. However, no less than 4 people stopped asking if they could help. Got it fixed on my own and was on my way.

Yes, I can and have.  It is a nuisance when it happens, but you need to be prepared for the "unexpected".

I learned how to change a tire very early on in my riding. In fact, my friends and I had a race to see who could change the fastest and I came in under 2 minutes.  I recommend sitting with your bike and changing the tire a few times to practice once or twice a season, especially the back tire.  You'll feel soo much more self sufficient!

I think that this is one of the most important things to learn, especially from a saftey point of view. You need to be able to get yourself out of wherever you got yourself into. Learn and practice.

I carry a frame pump and CO2 for inflating. I have 1 tube and a Park patch kit along with a Park Tire Boot. These way almost nothing and easily fit in my bag. I have a set of 3 tire levers that came in a little holder, so just carry them all. I also have a multi-tool in the bag. The frame pump and patch kits are for the just in case scenarios: double flatting, multiple flats, etc. I can easily be 25+ miles from anywhere and have zero cell service. The added weight is so little that it is not a concern.

Practice as much as possible. I would say practice with the back tire as well. Nothing like flatting in the cold and rain and dark to ruin a ride. The only thing worse would be clip-clop walking home in the cold and rain and dark or in the 100+ degree sun and running out of water.