Are you new to riding and curious to what you should bring on your ride? This will help you get started! As a general rule, you should have everything you need to be prepared. Obviously you can’t carry the repair shop and a sandwich bar in your pack, but there are some things you can have that will help keep you riding.
You need to bring a mountain bike in good working condition. It should have at least front suspension (front shock). If you have rear suspension, that is an added bonus. The bike should have, as a minimum, v-brakes, although disk brakes are recommended. The semi slick or slick tires are not appropriate for trail riding. Make sure that the bike is in good working condition and fits you.
We recommend you have flat pedals; or clipless pedals as long as you are very comfortable with them. Having a quick release on your seat post is also very useful as you may want to raise and lower your saddle during rides.
Don’t forget your helmet!
In addition to having your bike in good working condition, what should you have in your pack? As a minimum you’ll need the following:
- Membership e-card
- Extra tube
- Water
- Food – snacks (bars, fruit, nuts, etc.) for short evening rides, something more substantial (sandwich etc.) for longer weekend rides
- Layers of clothing (extra gloves, jacket, etc.)
- Medication – if you have allergies (epi-pen, etc.) or other medication that you need
Other recommended items:
- Pump and tire levers
- Multitool
- Derailleur hanger
- First aid kit
- Duct or electrical tape
- Tie wraps (zap straps)
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellant
- Chain tool and quick links
- kit patch
- zip ties
You should always bring some food and water with you. It might not be as important on a Seymour shuttle, but if you are out in Squamish or Sunshine Coast or something like that, it is a requirement. The longer the ride, the more water is required and the more substantial the food (ie packing your lunch).
Sometimes things happen to the bike while riding. It could be a flat tire or a broken chain. Often just a basic knowledge of how your bike works and a few well chosen items can keep you riding.
