In mountain biking (MTB), you can get exercise while exploring the unknown. It is a sport that can offer you a strong sense of freedom and new discovery. To enjoy the freedom, you need to be prepared for the challenges that may arise before you proceed. Here is a complete list of what to prepare for your MTB.
1.A Bike
To get the most out of a MTB, make sure you choose the bike that suits you best. Also make sure it’s been tuned up recently so as to leaves no possibility of any mechanical issues on the track.
2.A Bike Rack
It will be great if the trails you are heading for are within your riding distance. But in most cases, you may need to drive to the trailhead. Then, you need a reliable bike rack. You can check our bike racks and choose the one that goes best for your bike and vehicle. It will make the carrying of your bike easy and safe.
3.Spare Bike Tubes
A tire problem may occur without any signs in your riding. So even if the bike you ride is tubeless, it’s essential to have a spare bike tube or two as a backup. A flat tire is the last thing you want to see in a trailhead parking lot or at the halfway point of your ride. Have spare bike tubes of the right size for your tire prepared before you go out.
4.Tire Lever
You might find a tire lever in your multi-tools. But for a MTB, a standalone lever allows you to change the tire more easily. When a replacement is required, you can slide under the bead of the tire to pry a flat tire. Then, gently bring the bead over and off the rim. After it has been put under the tire bead, you can create space by pressing it back. After that, use the hook at its end to fasten it to a spoke.
5.A Tire Pump or Several CO2 Refill Cartridges
When you have a flat tire, a tire pump that can provide a decent inflation rate is what you need. You can also choose some CO2 refill cartridges for your bike. Taking just a little space, they are in light weight and easy to store in your pack or saddlebag.
6.Multi-tool
For a MTB adventure, preparing a decent multi-tool is a must. A common multi-tool should include at least flathead Philips head screwdrivers, T25 Torx and a series of hex wrenches.
7.A Helmet
A MTB rider will be more upright on a bike as compared to a road bike. In case of an accident, head can often be injured. That is why a helmet is crucial. Wearing the right size helmet can provide increased protection for your head and brain, preventing potential external and internal damage.
8.Hydration Packs
Hydration packs can the transport and drinking of water efficient and convenient. With a hydration pack, by simply grabbing the drink tube connected to the included water reservoir, you can drink water whenever you want without having to stop or slow down. In fact, hydration packs can do more than that. In addition to keep you hydrated, it also helps to carry some of the items in this list.
9.Rain Gear
Weather forecasts can’t predict all weather changes. A sudden rain may easily ruin your passion. Therefore, a collapsible raincoat should be put into your hydration pack.
10.Food
Depending on how long the trails can be, nutrition may not a necessity every time. But for a long time riding, it is also necessary to put some food and drinks in your backpack. They can be bananas, sports bars, fruit cakes, savoury muffins, jam sandwiches, sports drink, or if you like, jelly beans, dates, etc.
11.Sunscreen and Insect Repellents
No matter where you are, for any dry and exposed trails, it is wise to apply sunscreen before your riding. Sunburn can be painful and in severe cases can even lead to a skin cancer. You need to plan your ride to avoid the time when the sun is at its strongest. If you can’t avoid these periods entirely, then you can plan a lunch stop to give you a break from the Sun.
It is clever to get into a patch of wood between riding sessions on a hot day. But if you are going to spend a long time deep in the wood, then don’t forget to keep some insect repellents in the trunk in case you need them.
12.Phone
Today, most people don’t go anywhere without their phones. Since MTB is a risky sport, and there might be accidents. So, it makes a huge difference to take a phone for you to contact the outside world for help in case of an emergency.
13.A Gear Bag
The reason why you need a gear bag is that you can put all the above items inside and keep them well organized. You can also use it to store your sweaty and dirty items for the time being.