Everything You Need for a Long Bike Ride

Cyclists, assemble. We have the top ten things you need to have with you on your longer bike ride. Ready for more? Read all about it here.

Helmet

The most important. Stay safe, stay alert, stay protected. Wearing a helmet can reduce head injuries by up to 60%, so if you want to keep that noggin of yours thinking, wear your helmet and make sure you’re not out riding without it.

Spare Tubes

You might be used to patch kits, but having a spare tube with you while you’re out on the bike can save a world full of pain. Take out a spare tube with you to avoid any punctures beyond repair.

Tyre Levers

Changing a tire is as easy as 1,2,3. Levers make changing a tire slicker, smoother, and faster, without the need to slow down your ride or pinching the tube on your bike. Keep them handy, you never know when they will come in use.

Multi-tool

Most tools will have the basics you need and then some, but there are a few models in particular that have a few more bells and whistles – or rather nuts and bolts. A multitool will help make sure you don’t get caught short while out riding, and ensures you have the tools you need for most small jobs. .

Pump or CO2 Inflator

More than a load of hot air, these are actually your ticket to riding harder for longer. Having a pump or CO2 when you’re most going to need it means that what could have been a ride-ending scenario, suddenly turns into a minor inconvenience.

Mini First Aid Kit

Cuts, bruises, scrapes, and scuffs. A Mini first aid kit will clean up any near misses or minor injuries so you can keep on keeping on, without the need to withdraw or forfeit. The majority of injuries out on the bike come from these seemingly small things, so tending to them quickly makes sure they’re not getting bigger than they need to be, and that they get the TLC they need. 

Water

Hydration is absolutely essential. Making sure you have enough water to last the ride is a science in itself, so make sure you have plenty of water packed and ready, easily accessible, and ready for action.

Mobile Phone

In case of emergency. Need we say more?

Maps or GPS

Not all mobile phones are created equal, so having a map or GPS in place to keep and track your location is vital. If anything should happen, it means that someone knows where you are, and that you can keep safe when riding solo or in smaller groups.

Fuel

Nutrition is a big part of racing, it keeps you riding for longer and fuelled properly for the road or trail ahead. Whether you’re racing or riding for leisure, having the proper fuel with you will make all the difference in your feeling energised for your ride, or dragging yourself to the saddle.