Plan for the worst and hope for the best. Careful planning (and packing) will get you out of almost any mechanical problem you encounter on the trailGary Perkin
Two spare tubes are a must for long ridesJosh Patterson / Immediate Media
Patch kits take up very little room in your pack and are a necessity when you’ve used your last tubeJosh Patterson / Immediate Media
A CO2 inflator and cartridges will get you rolling quicker, but a pump will work every timeJosh Patterson / Immediate Media
Never leave home without a good multi-tool, preferably one with a built-in chain toolJosh Patterson / Immediate Media
Many multi-tools have a tire lever built into them, they’re generally not as useful, nor as well constructed, as standalone leversJosh Patterson / Immediate Media
While modern air shocks are quite reliable, it’s still a good idea to pack a shock pump in case you develop a slow leak, or (more likely) if you find you need to fine-tune your suspensionDavid Rome / Immediate Media
If you’re likely to encounter multiple stream crossings or a chance of showers, a small bottle of chain lube with a peice of cloth to clean the chain is a good addition to your kitJosh Patterson / Immediate Media
Keeping a stick of lip balm (preferably with an SPF rating) in your pack is a good idea when riding in dry environmentsJosh Patterson / Immediate Media
Even on cloudy days, a small stick or bottle of sunscreen (SPF 30 or greater) is something you should bring with youJosh Patterson / Immediate Media
Be sure to have an “in case of emergency” contact listed in your phone’s address bookJosh Patterson / Immediate Media
A packable shell is a good item to carry any time you’re riding in the mountainsJosh Patterson / Immediate Media
Accidents happen: carry a first aid kit in a waterproof pouch or containerJosh Patterson / Immediate Media
Bending or breaking a derailleur hanger is one of the most common mechanicals — keep a spare on hand just in caseJosh Patterson / Immediate Media
A master link can be used to replace bent or broken links and allow you to pedal homeJosh Patterson / Immediate Media
Carrying a spare chainring bolt will keep you spinning smoothlyJosh Patterson / Immediate Media
Zip-ties are useful for a number of small repairsJosh Patterson / Immediate Media
A spare spoke and nipple can come in handyJosh Patterson / Immediate Media
Carry the coin of your realm (in paper form) in your pack. In addition to being useful for post ride beers and burritos, it can also be used as a tire bootJosh Patterson / Immediate Media
If there’s a chance you won’t make it home before sunset a small high output light will lead you safely homeJosh Patterson / Immediate Media
Many packs come with tool rolls that keep all your repair items organized. If yours doesn’t, consider using a small bag or pouch to keep track of smaller bits of kitJosh Patterson / Immediate Media
One of the best parts of mountain biking is that it enables you to journey farther and faster into the backcountry than you could on foot. This also means that when something goes wrong, such as an injury or a mechanical, it will likely be up to you to address the problem.
If you enjoy spending all day on the trails you should plan and pack accordingly.
Like most tools, these items are only useful if you know how to use them. It’s always best to ride with a group, but if venturing deep into the woods alone, be sure you have a basic understanding of first aid and also know how to:
In addition to nutrition, hydration and identification, here are 20 items you should consider bringing with you on your next backcountry mountain bike ride.
