20 essentials for epic mountain bike rides

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.

• 5 trail-side repairs you need to know
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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:

• Install a tube
• Patch a tube
• Apply lubricant to a chain
• Fix a broken chain
• Realign a disc brake caliper
• Repair or replace a loose or broken spoke
• Adjust a rear derailleur
• Adjust a front derailleur

1. Spare tubes (Two)

Carrying two spare tubes is a must for long mountain bike rides. Double flats happen — usually a split second after you call out to your riding buddies “Hey! Watch this!” High-speed descents through rock gardens and jumps with flat run-outs are notorious for pinching tubes and tires.

When riding with a group, I carry one tube for my wheel size and, regardless of what bike I’m riding, also carry a 27.5in tube. Why? Because in a jam a ‘tweener’ tube works well enough for both 26in and 29er tires that I can help out a fellow mountain biker in need.

2. Patch kit

Patch kits take up very little room in your pack and are a necessity when you’ve used your last tube. Glueless patches (shown here) are much faster to apply but don’t have the longevity of patches that use a vulcanizing agent.

3. Tire pump

The first two items are pretty useless without a pump. A CO₂ inflator and cartridges are optional. They will get you up and rolling quicker, but a mini pump will work every time.

4. Multi-tool

Never leave home without a good multi-tool. I always opt for a multi-tool with a built-in chain tool, a T25 torx, flathead and Philips screwdrivers, and at least 2.5 3,4,5,6 and 8mm Allen keys, and the most common spoke tool sizes. The Crankbrothers multi-tool shown here is good; a multi-tool that also has a built in pair of pliers and wire cutters is even better.

5. Tire lever

6. Shock pump

7. Chain lube

If you’re likely to encounter multiple stream crossings, dusty trail conditions, or a chance of showers on your ride then pack a small bottle of chain lube. 

Tip: use a rubber band to wrap a section of cloth from a rag or old shirt around the bottle -— use it to clean grime off the chain before applying fresh chain lube, as well as to wipe off excess lube after application.

8. Lip balm

9. Sunscreen

10. Phone

Smartphones can do a lot of things (such as allow you to leave snarky comments on BikeRadar), but the most important function is the ability to phone home in case of an emergency. Consider carrying a SPOT or a similar beacon if you’re venturing beyond the reach of cell service

11. Packable rain jacket

Weather can be unpredictable, particularly in the mountains. A lightweight, packable shell will keep your core dry and warm should you encounter a sudden downpour.

12. First-aid kit

A small first aid kit in a waterproof package is a must. Bandages, gauze, disinfecting wipes and tweezers are all items to include in your kit. Like the tools in this list, a first-aid kit is only useful if you know how to use it — a basic understanding of first aid and CPR may come in handy.

13. Derailleur hanger

A bent or broken derailleur hanger can mean the end of your ride (or an impromptu singlespeed conversion). Carry a spare hanger with mounting bolts just in case. 

Problem Solvers’ Universal Derailleur Hanger is a good backup option, if you’re packing for more than just yourself.

14. Master link

15. Chainring bolt

Chainring bolts occasionally shear off or rattle loose. Keeping a spare in your pack will allow you to continue on with all your rings intact.

16. Zip-ties

Zip-ties come in handy in many situations. They can be used to wrangle errant cables and keep your shoe tight if a buckle breaks.

17. Spare spoke with nipple

Thankfully, many modern mountain bike wheelsets are designed to require the use of a single spoke length for the entire wheelset — front, rear, drive- and non-drive sides. This makes it easier to carry a single spoke to replace a broken one. 

A spare spoke can also come in handy for cleaning grass and other debris from a derailleur or cassette. 

18. Money

Money, that stuff that makes the world go ’round, can also make your bike go ’round. Dollars, Pounds or Pesos — carry the coin of your realm (in paper form) in your pack. 

19. Small but bright headlight

20. Tool roll or pouch