Are you looking to be MORE prepared on your mountain bike rides? Do you want to be MORE self-sufficient on the mountain? Let’s get packed and make sure we have everything we need for whatever the trails throw our way. Let’s chat about what’s in my mountain biking pack!
Choosing the Right Mountain Bike Pack
I use a USWE backpack that holds a 3L bladder and has a lot of space for snacks, layers and tools. BUT some days a pack feels like too much, so I also use a Bontrager hip pack that carries sufficient amounts of snacks, tools and an extra bottle.
For really big riding days that are deeper in trail networks I tend to use my backpack, as it fits more gear and holds more water, while my hip pack is great for days where I have access to refill and feed stations or need less layers/gear.
POC, Bontrager, USWE and EVOC have many great options for hip packs and backpacks that hug your body, but don’t restrict your movement or abilities when climbing and descending.
Compact Mountain Bike TOOLS
A multi tool goes a long way when it comes to on-trail bike maintenance. You never know when you’ll need to tighten a bolt, adjust a headset, or check your through axle. Having a packable multitool with a variety of allen key sizes, a phillips head, spoke wrench and a chain tool, you can fix most issues on a bike, or at least get you out of the woods and to the bike shop.
There are many different options out there for tools, but here are a few favorites that fit in your stem, pocket or bag: OneUp EDC Tool, PRO Minitool 8, Crankbrothers
M17.
We all know flats are annoying, however, they are less so when you are prepared and have the tools to fix them. Whether I am coaching or out on a solo ride, my pack will be supplied with a tube, tire levers and an air pump/CO₂canister. A major part to being self-sufficient on the trails is having the tools and pieces to fix your bike. Even if you don’t know how to repair a flat, or struggle to fix a broken chain, having your own tools and parts will allow others to help you repair your bike trailside.
SNACKS to Fuel Your Mountain Bike Adventures
You can never have too many snacks with you, especially on a big day on the bike. I always over pack snacks because you never know when you’ll need an extra burst of energy or when someone else is going to be running low on fuel. When on a big ride you should be consuming 60 grams of carbohydrates per hour to ensure you maintain energy levels and avoid those mid ride bonks.
Some of my favorite snacks to have on hand are Honey Stinger Gummies, Hornby Organic Bars, a classic PB & Jam sandwich, a banana and pickles! It can be easy to slam back energy GUs and gummies all day but having a variety of real food (homemade and prepackaged) will bring your mid-ride snacking and energy levels to new heights.
Recommended Wearable Mountain Bike Gear
Cold weather brings a whole new set of challenges. Mechanicals and crashes bring the risk of hypothermia. Skin exposed to the cold declines power output, and the perfect set of layers are hard to come by.
Here at The Cycling Co. we always highlight the importance of packing extra gloves, but we also always make sure we as coaches and our riders have a jacket packed. Jackets are essential as they protect riders from the rain, mud and cold when shredding up and down the mountain, but also keeps riders warm when they’re taking a break or dealing with on-trail maintenance and slow-moving circumstances.
Check out 7mesh’s Copilot and Skypilot jackets or Fox’s wide variety performance jackets for lightweight, warm, moisture wicking and packable options.
HYDRATION Options for Mountain Bikers
I always pack sufficient amounts of water, whether it’s a bladder or bottles. It’s not always just water, though – I make sure to always have a bottle on my frame with electrolytes to replenish myself and avoid cramping on big ride days, as well as my bladder or a second bottle with regular water.
If you know you’re riding somewhere you can refill this is less of a stressor, but if you’re in the backcountry trails, make sure you plan accordingly and know your water consumption tendencies. Not sure which electrolytes are good? Check out nuun, Scratch Labs and XACT!
Which FIRST AID Supplies to Pack for Any Mountain Bike Ride
It never hurts to be over prepared. Whether it’s a little cut, or a big bleed, having a First Aid kit with you is always a great idea.
Big days on the bike aren’t easy on the body and can lead to fatigue, brain fog and mistakes – so being prepared with band aids, gauze, slings, tensors, a splint and emergency blankets can make a huge difference.
Having a full on first aid kit in your pack is not realistic but having a few of the essentials can make a bad situation a lot less detrimental.
Check out High Above for packable First Aid Kit options, or DIY your own first aid kit into a watertight ziplock baggie!
In Summary
Whether you’re going for an all-day adventure or just a couple of laps at your local mountain, make sure you and your pack are ready for whatever the ride has in store for you. If you use single use supplies from your pack make sure to replace them (preferably before your next ride) or set a weekly or monthly schedule for a full on pack check to ensure its complete with all the necessities.
Now get packed up and go ride your bike!
There are some big considerations here. When we are off-road, we are moving relatively slowly (compared to road riding) and we are generating a great deal of heat. Slower speeds mean less windchill. Coupled with the higher heart rates (usually), it means that one does not need quite as many layers when hitting the trails as you would if you were heading out on the skinny road tires. Think of how you might dress if you were going for an aggressive hike or trail run.
Now let’s talk about our extremities. Hands and feet are THE biggest challenge in cold, wet winter weather. 