DECIDING EXACTLY WHAT to bring on a long cycle can be a tricky business.
You want enough food and drink to sustain you for the trip, the correct clothing and, of course, the right amount of tools to see you through any misfortune.
But if follow our guide to riding your first 100k spin you should be just fine.
Bike
First things first; your bike should be in good working order. If you don’t know a tyre lever from a tube and are worried about those creaks, take it to a qualified bike mechanic who will assuage any fears you may have.
Spares
You should always take two spare inner tubes. You might get away with one and if space is an issue then go with one but with the size of some saddle bags these days, we advise taking two. You should also bring the following: tyre levers, a patch kit, allen keys and a mini pump.
Food
This is to be stored in the pockets either side of the pump. It’s important to work on having a piece of food every hour, be it a banana a bar or a gel, though we try to refrain from the latter while out training as they can be quite expensive. A 100k spin could take anything between three and five hours so that’s five bars if you’re in the latter bracket, or two bananas and three bars.
Two bottles — it’s up to you what you put into them but as a general rule, we go for one with just water in one and the other an energy drink. Taking more than two bottles just weighs you down. The size of the bottles is again up to you but on warmer days when you’re likely to sweat more, we’d always go for at least one 750ml bottle.
Clothes
Aside from your normal cycling attire (bib shorts, shoes, base layer and jersey) we always recommend an extra layer like a windproof gilet or jacket. Depending on the time of year these will always come in handy, especially when you get stuck in a nasty shower. This packs down small and neat and goes in the middle back pocket.
Extras
Always bring your phone but it’s important to not underestimate how easily water can get at it so so buy a proper ziplock bag. Sandwich bags often work just as well.
Money and credit card. Buy yourself an emergency coffee, can of coke and cake…or it need not be an emergency at all. Bring your credit card just in case the unthinkable happens and you totally mangle your bike and need the assistance of a taxi home…or to the bike shop.
