For this issue we’ve asked the team at British Cycling to give their advice on how to pack for mountain biking. If you’re taking your mountain bike out for more than just a quick spin – particularly if you’re riding cross-country – you should always aim to be self-sufficient by having the equipment and knowledge to deal with mechanical issues and other mishaps.

These are the top picks to pack for mountain biking:

Phone

Always have a fully charged mobile phone with you and make sure you’re not draining its battery by using its GPS for navigation or recording ride stats. Keep your phone in a waterproof case and protect it in the middle of your bag where it won’t be damaged in a fall. Register your mobile to be able to text emergency services when the signal’s weak. And for extra peace of mind, have an I.C.E (in case of emergency) number stored in your phone and keep the security lock turned off.

Spares and repairs

Carry a couple of spare inner tubes, even if riding tubeless, and also some quick-stick puncture repair patches just in case you’re unlucky enough to have multiple flats. A power link allows you to rejoin a broken chain without having to push pins back in.

Tools

A quality multi-tool that includes a chain tool will allow you to cope with most trailside repairs. You should also have some basic mechanical knowledge, such as indexing your rear derailleur and adjusting your front mech (lessons online). A pump is essential for re-inflating your tyres after a puncture. You’ll also need tyre levers to get the tube out. If you’re riding tubeless, you may also need some pliers.

Clothing

Always carry a waterproof and a packable warm jacket, or an extra base layer in a zip-lock bag. Take a warm hat and thick gloves in winter.

Food and Drink

Make sure you have enough food and drink for your entire ride. It’s also sensible to have a small bag of emergency rations.

Map

It’s far too easy to become overly reliant on GPS devices and trail centre way-markers. Carry a map of the area you’re riding in as it’ll allow you to plot a bail-out if you need to shorten a ride. You should also carry a compass and know how to use it.

First Aid Kit

A basic first aid kit and the knowledge of how to use it should be a priority for all mountain bikers. A lightweight foil survival blanket weighs practically nothing, but could make all the difference in cold conditions.

ID

Especially important if you’re riding on your own and as a backup to the ICE stored in your phone. Wear an ID bracelet or dog-tag – or have your details on a rucksack tag.

Lights

If you find yourself caught out after dark, a compact light or headtorch will get you back to civilisation. If you have some road sections to ride, use a clip-on red rear light to ensure you’re safe and legal.

Money

Many remote areas with poor mobile phone coverage still have coin-operated pay phones. Cash is also good for refueling stops.

Dry Bag

Always wise. There are many types of waterproof bags to line your rucksack with.

Pre-Ride Checklist

You may find it useful to make a copy of the ‘how to pack for mountain biking’ list below and double check it before every ride:

Phone
Inner tubes
Puncture repair patches or kit
Emergency tyre boot
Power link + link tool if necessary
Spare rear mech hanger
Zip ties
Pump or mini pump if travelling;
lightweight and CO2 inflator
Multi-tool with chain tool
Tyre levers
Pliers
Spare clothing (conditions dependent but a minimum of a waterproof)
Food and drink (to last for the length of the ride + emergency rations)
Map + compass
Appropriately stocked First Aid kit
Lightweight survival blanket
ID
Lights (including red rear if going on the roads)
Money
Dry bag

Why mountain biking is for everyone
By Dan Cook
“Mountain biking is amazingly accessible – you need a bike, but not necessarily mountains! You can find great riding close to home, in urban or rural areas across the UK, whether that’s a canal path, a bridleway or a purpose-built route. You can be social by riding with friends, you can explore new places, or you can be guided by a qualified Leader. See our guidance for more on how to get started, how to access a British Cycling Leader, where rides take place and what you might want to take with you.”
Dan Cook, British Cycling’s Mountain Bike Leadership Manager. britishcycling.org.uk/getinvolved