The mountain bike season is around the corner, the bike is fixed, and the motivation is high, but before each tour, you must follow the same procedure: What to do? What is necessary? Our packing list helps those who are spoiled for choice and lists the essential equipment for a day trip.
The most important thing is to find out what you do not need to pack and how you can avoid excess baggage. Below you can find a list of things you do not have to pack. Depending on the condition of the components and the tour length, they should be replaced before the start.
In this article, you will find out everything you need to bring with you for a long trip with your mountain bike, from cycling gear to the food and drinks you need.
- An extra tire
- Elbow and leg pads
- Chain
- Chainrings
- Spring / shock absorber
If everything is OK and adequate for the trip, I recommend the following things to pack in any case:
- Cycling shoes
- Cycling socks
- Cycling shorts
- Cycling jersey
- Cycling helmet
Mountain Bike Ride – Essential Equipment
- Spare jersey
- Functional Garment
- Vest
- Arm / Leg Warmers
- Buff (headband, bandana, handkerchief in one and is thus an all-rounder)
- Overshoes (for the cold season only)
- Sunglasses/eyewear
- Cycling gloves
- Mountain bike backpack (20 litres)
- Rain cover for your backpack
- Knee pads
- Hardshell raincoat
Gadgets
- Bike computer
- GPS device
- Outdoor multifunction watch/heart rate monitor
- Small light for your mountain bike
- Repair kit
- Small pump
- Lock
Food and Hydration
- Bottle or hydration material in a backpack
- Energy bars
Health and First Aid
- Small first aid kit
- Duct tape
- Sunblock
- Lip protection
- Handkerchiefs
Miscellaneous
- Map
- Compass
- GPS
- Mobile phone
- Photography equipment (if needed)
- Batteries / Replacement Batteries
- Cash
- Pocket knife
- Matches / lighter
The above packing list is sufficient for a one-day trip in moderate terrain with no special requirements. If you want to bike in extreme terrain or downhill, change your equipment accordingly. Also, it is essential to note that depending on the length and route selection; you certainly do not need to take everything.
A one-hour trip through the fields and meadows needs lesser gear than a ten-hour trip in Yosemite. Therefore, we have tried to be as exhaustive as possible. You can leave some of that equipment at home according to your needs. Anyone planning a multi-day mountain bike tour should pack much more quality gear.
Here are some tips for your next MTB trip
- Comfort is essential.
- Select spare clothes that have low weight.
- Beware of the weather at all times. Keeping a good raincoat never hurts and protects against wind and weather conditions.
- Safety first! Whatever weight you save in the clothing department, get some safety equipment in its place. Some repair items are required (small pump, small tool kit) because every trip carries some risk.
- Respect the environment. Mountain biking is booming, and rightly so. It is an excellent means to move fast and to experience nature intensely. But as always, it is also true here some rules are to be observed. As more and more mountain bikers flock to the hotspots, often unique routes have been established, while others are prohibited. Always comply with the local rules.
- Respect your fellow men! The mountains are there for all, and there is enough space to bike/hike/camp happily.
- Respect your limits! Challenges are good, and you grow with them but select the routes according to your skill levels.
Energy is an essential aspect of a better ride. Professional mountain bikers are supervised by trainers and doctors who, according to their physical characteristics, follow the best diets to allow them to recover quickly from the condition during and after physical exertion. Let’s take a look at which foods are suitable for mountain bikers.
Nutrients needed by the body
Carbohydrates
Four calories per gram provide energy. They are divided mainly into starches (bread, rice, pasta, etc.) and carbohydrates (sugars). They are digested and subsequently absorbed in a very short time.
Protein
Four calories per gram have various biomechanical and biological functions. It is found in eggs, fish, meat, vegetables, milk and soya protein concentrates. They are reduced into amino acids (the building blocks of proteins) and then absorbed by the digestive system.
Fat
9 kcal per gram is deposited and forms a caloric reserve. They are divided into saturated (solid at room temperature and of animal origin such as cholesterol) and unsaturated (liquid at room temperature, derived predominantly from vegetables or from fish like omega 3).
Saturated fats are transformed into cholesterol (harmful), while polyunsaturated fats are converted into fatty acids (good).
Vitamins
No calories are essentially organic compounds. These are essential substances for humans to survive. They must be introduced daily through the intake of fruits, vegetables, meat, fish, eggs, and milk.
They govern all metabolic and cellular functions, including the production of proteins. Promote muscle recovery, and protect against free radicals and metabolic wastes from premature ageing and cancer.
Minerals
They have no calories and have bioregulatory and protective functions. They are crucial for the body, regulating almost all biochemical and physiological processes such as oxygen transport, protein and enzymatic activity, carbohydrate metabolism and hydration of muscles.
They must be entered daily by adequate consumption of vegetables, meat, fish, eggs, milk and cheese (in moderation).
Foods that I keep Stocked in my Backpack
Bananas
Bananas are the classic natural supplement for anyone who rides a bike. Thanks to potassium and vitamin B6, this fruit regulates the blood sugar level and gives electrolytes lost during physical exertion. They also reduce the possibility of the occurrence of cramps.
Whey Protein
Whey protein is an absolute classic. It is easily assimilated by the body, making it an excellent food choice and recommended for recovery for its replenishment ability.
Dried fruits and nuts
They are the ideal food for any biker. It provides energy while taking up little space. They are good when you are riding, and pop a few of them in your mouth as you burn many calories. Nuts quench hunger and provide energy.
Dried apricots
They have three times the potassium of bananas. Ideal for the containment of blood pressure and is rich in vitamin A and a source of vitamin C.
Dried dates
When you are exhausted, the body makes you need to consume sugary foods; another good choice is the dates which, although very sweet, have a low glycemic index, allowing them to release sugars slowly and maintain constant energy. They are rich in potassium, and fibre is a source of magnesium.
Dried figs
Rich in calcium and magnesium, four dried figs also provide a quarter of the recommended daily iron intake.
Nuts
They are an excellent source of concentrated energy, perfect for those with an active lifestyle. It has a high caloric density and only takes a small quantity to get a significant burst of energy without burdening digestion. Walnuts, almonds, pistachios and other nuts contain so-called “good” fats, namely polyunsaturated and monounsaturated, which counter the accumulation of cholesterol.
Honey
Honey is a complete food. It has enzymes, vitamins, glucose, fructose and other substances that immediately provide energy to the body. Bikers must keep small sachets always with them. It enhances the recovery too.
Nature offers everything necessary for our body. So try to stay away from food supplements whenever possible.
Conclusion
In conclusion, we hope you found our article helpful regarding what to carry while mountain biking. We covered the essential items that you should always have with you, as well as some optional items that can be helpful in certain situations. Please share our article with your friends so that they can be prepared for their next mountain biking adventure!