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Checklist for Mountain Biking

One of the best ways to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip is to prepare yourself with the appropriate equipment for your outdoor activity! Mountain biking is probably the most rugged form of cycling there is, requiring specialized equipment to handle the strain of the rough terrains. Many choose to hike and/or camp to their cycling route, so be sure to also check our camping and hiking checklists as well as our travel checklist to ensure that you’re prepared for all aspects of your outdoor adventure.


Click here  to download a printable PDF shopping list.


Item

Why You Need It

Bicycle

Mobility for your Cycling Trip

Helmet

A Lifesaver in an Accident!


Basic Gear

Mountain biking requires many of the same pieces of basic equipment that one would need for any cycling trip plus the addition of gear that can handle the demands of mountainous terrain. Be sure to bring all items on this list, regardless of the length of your mountain biking excursion, even if you plan to keep some items at your ‘home base’ campsite.

Item

Why You Need It

Water Source (Hydration Pack or Bottle)

Hydration

Energy Food/Snacks

Calories to Keep You Going

First Aid Kit (See ‘First Aid’ Section Below)

For Use on Minor Injuries and Ailments

Sunglasses or Eye Protection

Protects Eyes from the Sun and/or Debris

Medical Info/Card

Useful for Emergency/Healthcare Workers

Protective Gear (Elbow/Knee Pads)

Protection from Small Falls

Bag (Waist Pack/Saddle Bag)

Secure Transportation of Goods

Towel

Wipe Away Sweat, Dirt, and Debris

Strength Tape

Performance Booster

Pocket Knife

Useful Tool

Lip Balm

Keep Lips Hydrated and Protected


Freeriding Gear

One form of mountain biking called ‘freeriding’ involves a bit more risk, as the cyclist is given more freedom to explore new paths. Due to this, a cyclist should protect themselves with additional essential pieces of equipment and gear for safety purposes.

Item

Why You Need It

Full-Face Helmet

Extra Protection for Your Face

Shin Guards

Protect Shins from Sharp Rocks

Upper Body Protection

Helps Shield Upper Body from Falling Rocks


Travel Gear and Accessories

As we’ve mentioned before, many will choose to travel to a destination and then hike or camp at the start of the mountain biking route. In these instances, you’ll need to review our checklists for travel, hiking, and camping in addition to these travel items and accessories specifically for mountain biking excursions.


Keep in mind that your repair items can vary drastically depending on your trip and your immediate access to assistance should you ‘blow a tire’. A patch kit can typically get the job done for those who aren’t biking long distances, but for extended trips in the wilderness or mountains, you may want to consider additional repair items like spare spokes, spoke wrench, replacement chain links, pressure gauge, and lubricant as well. Mountain biking typically brings with it an increased chance for bike and tire damage, so don’t skimp on repair items unless you want to find yourself stranded on a mountain with a broken cycle (or worse, in an emergency situation).

Item

Why You Need It

Slim-Fitting Backpack

Holds Gear for Extended Trips

Bike Rack, Hitch, or Cage

Transport Bike via Car

Mounting Devices (GPS/Phone Mount)

Keeps Electronics Secure and Visible

Bike Mirrors

More Visibility

Bottle Holder

Keep Water Bottle Secure

Tube Repair Items (Tube, Inflator, Patch Kit)

Replace/Repair Punctured Tubes

Handlebar Grip

Improved Comfort

Fitness Watch

Keep Track of Your Fitness Progress

Cycling Multi-Tool

For Minor Adjustments

Lock

Keep Your Bike Secure When Not in Use

Cell Phone

For Emergency Purposes

Map/Manuals

Can Help When You Get Disoriented

Straps or Bungee Cords

Keeps Loose Items Secure

Emergency Whistle

Can Alert Nearby People for Help

Compass

Can Help Redirect You to Your Path


Clothing

Mountain biking can involve a range of temperatures and climates, especially if you’re biking through large changes in elevation. Be sure to dress in layers that can be easily removed, and pack for inclement weather should the need arise.

Item

Why You Need It

Face Mask

Shields Face from Cold Winds

Visor/Hat

Blocks Sun from Eyes

Gloves

Protects and Warms Hands

Wicking Top

Keeps Sweat Away from Skin

Technical Socks

Comfort

Padded Shorts or Leggings

Designed to Add Comfort When Cycling

Windbreaker/Jacket with Liner

Protects from Elements

Rainwear

In Case of Inclement Weather

Thermal Underwear

Base Layer for Chilly Rides

Cycling Footwear

Comfort for Your Ride

Shoe or Toe Covers

Protects from Cold and Wet Conditions

Hands and Feet Warmers

Additional Warmth

Balaclava

Extra Layer of Warmth for Head

Ear band/Ear muffs

Keeps Ears Warm

Gaiters

Keeps Debris Out of Shoes


First Aid

As an essential to any trip, first aid can help to ensure that minor accidents and ailments are taken care of. While a first aid kit covers most of the basics, cyclists will also want to consider a few of the extras on this checklist that cater to many of the common issues that could arise during a cycling trip.

Item

Why You Need It

First Aid Kit

For Use on Minor Injuries and Ailments

Bandages

Cover and Protect Injuries

Pain Relieving Balm

Reduce Pain for the Ride

Blister Treatment

Cover and Protect Blisters

Insect Repellant

Ideal for Marshland, Dawn, and Dusk

Safety Glasses (if not wearing sunglasses)

Protection from Airborne Debris

Toiletry Kit

Useful When out in Wilderness


Additional Safety Tips

  • When not in use, keep supplies and gear in a dry area and inspect them before each trip.

  • Stay up to date on First Aid and CPR training.

  • Keep your first aid kit stocked and know how to use all of its contents.

  • Stay hydrated.