When we go out cycling, especially when we’re going on a route, whether long or short, we have to carry a set of basic items that should never be missing; I’d say they are essential. We need to be self-sufficient on our rides and avoid possible surprises that could leave us stranded in the middle of nowhere. Whether it’s Mountain Bike, road, Gravel, or any other discipline. Let’s go for it… and discover the essential MTB gear!
Spare tube
The king of breakdowns is flats. How many times have we gone out and gotten a flat without a spare tube and had to ask someone for one or call to be picked up? It’s happened to me many times! With current Tubeless systems, the risk of being stranded is greatly reduced, but still, the sealant might not close the hole, and we may need to use a tube. Therefore, it is ESSENTIAL to carry at least one spare tube with us, and it’s very important that this tube is compatible with our wheels; size and valve type. The tube is the number one essential item for MTB. Don’t forget it!
Multitool
There are many on the market, but I recommend one that is compact, lightweight, and of good quality. Some are integrated into the bike. It’s important that it includes a chain breaker (or carry one separately) to fix the chain in case it breaks. I have used it many times, for example, to tighten the gear shifter during a ride.
Tire levers
Very important for removing and putting the tire back on after a flat. They are small plastic levers (usually three, but two are enough). Many people who are used to changing tires don’t use them, but just in case, I always carry them since they take up no space and weigh nothing.
Pump or canister
If we get a flat and need to put in a tube, we have to inflate it. For this, we can use small compressed air canisters (they are very practical because they don’t take up much space, but you have to be careful when using them) or the typical hand pump. We need to make sure that the pump or the CO2 pump adapter is compatible with the type of valve on our wheels (Presta or Schrader).
Plugs
Once in a while, usually more often in Mountain Biking, I’ve made a significant cut in the tire that the sealant can’t seal, so the tire needs to be repaired. There are many kits on the market; personally, I use plugs that hide in the handlebar to save space. They are sticky fibers that serve to fill or cover the cut and, when mixed with the puncture sealant, seal the tire.
Quick link or manual link
If the chain breaks, with a quick link and the chain breaker (mentioned earlier), we can fix it in an instant. It’s very important that this quick link is compatible with your chain; 9, 10, 11, or 12 speeds.
Food and hydration on the bike
A very important topic that many people don’t pay enough attention to. The type and amount of food and drink we need to choose varies a lot; it all depends on the intensity and duration of the route. It’s a very personal matter, and although there are general guidelines for everyone, not everyone reacts the same way to what everyone else consumes. Personally, I have a strategy prepared through trial and error, but also based on expert advice. I recommend isotonic or hypotonic drinks, and consuming about 30 grams of carbohydrates per hour when our physical activity will last more than two hours and/or it’s hot.
Identification
Finally, I would add that you should always carry a mobile phone, identification, and money. I always say the route I’m going to take and how long I expect it to last to avoid possible scares.
Natalia Fischer is a Professional Mountain Biker and ambassador of Sizen
Share:
How to Stay Properly Hydrated?
What is the basic gear for summer trail running?