20 Essentials for Epic Mountain Bike Rides

What to pack for long rides

One of the best parts of mountain biking is that it enables you to journey farther and faster into the back country 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:

• 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

In addition to nutrition, hydration and identification, here are 20 items you should consider bringing with you on your next back country mountain bike ride.

1. Spare tubes (Two)

Photo of Spare MTB Inner Tubes for Bikes

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 27.5″ inch tube. Why? Because in a jam a ‘tweener' tube works well enough for both 26″ inch and 29er tires that I can help out a fellow mountain biker in need.

2. Patch kit

Park Tool Patch Kit GP-2

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.

Even if you are riding tubeless tires, there's always that chance you can get a crazy gash that your tubeless sealant won't be able to seal! I'm sure you've been out ripping up the trails and all of a sudden you hear the pop and fizz of precious air escaping your tire. The first thoughts are, please let the sealant plug that hole. In most cases it will, but in the off chance it doesn't, you want to be sure to avoid the walk-out shame.

Packing a simple patch kit, costs little money, and takes up little space, but when needed are huge! Be sure to pack a patch kit, you never know when you'll need it. Ride prepared!

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3. Tire pump

Packable MTB 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.

CO2 cartridges are great, when they actually work. I used to carry around a CO2 cartridge and there was a time I needed it to get me outta a flat way out in the back country. No problem, I got my CO2 cartridge. Well, I wish I has more than one that day! Ruined the rim getting out. But that was the last time I would rely on CO2 cartridges. From now on I can spare tubes and a pump, even when riding tubeless.

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4. Multi-tool

Packable MTB 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.

Multi-Tools come in handy for all kinds of stuff, not just bike repairs. I've used a multi-tool on more than one occasion to crack open a cold frosty at the end of a long day in the saddle. I've also used a multi-tool to gain karma with those without a multi-tool! Pay it forward!

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5. Tire lever

Tire Levers / Spoons

Tire spoons and levers provide much-needed leverage to get those tires off easily, so you don't have to make a herculean effort to claw them off with your bare hands. Most have durable steel cores to withstand the extra torque, and several models have plastic outers that prevent damage from metal-on-metal contact with your rims and wheels. Several bicycle tire levers are available with double hooks to affix to the spokes and free up a hand while you're removing the tire.

If you can't get the wheels to roll, then it's gonna be hard getting anywhere on your bike. When you get a flat, and you need to change it, you gotta get that rubber tire off the rim. This can be an event in itself even with tire levers. I usually carry more than one. On occasion I've been able to get the rubber off the rim with only one, however for those super tight fitting tires, having more than one tire lever will help. Especially if your rims are on the expensive side, you'd best be sure to be using tire levers than something metal. Save your rims, get some levers.

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6. Shock Pump

Packable MTB Shock Pump

Getting your suspension set up properly is vital to getting the most from your bike's performance potential. One vital step in that is getting a correct sag figure. For most modern mountain bike shocks, that means adjusting the air pressure inside the spring – and to do that you'll need a shock pump. Compared with a normal tyre pump, most shock pumps are designed to reach up to 300psi without straining a muscle or busting a seal.

Your ride feeling a bit soft in the shocks? Chances are you haven't refreshed it since you purchased it. Couple years now? Shock still going strong? Check the PSI just for kicks see where you're at. Good thing you got yourself a shock pump, now you can use it! Get that shock PSI back to where it should be! Feels like it did when you first got it now!

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7. Chain Lube

Travel 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.

It's a simple thing to pack and you don't need much. Having it when you need it is the key. This is another one of those “pack it and forget” necessary items that belong in your pack for every ride.

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.

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8. Lip Balm

Lip Balm Sun Protection

Lip balm or lip salve is a wax-like substance applied topically to the lips to moisturize and relieve chapped or dry lips, angular cheilitis, stomatitis, or cold sores. Lip balm often contains beeswax or carnauba wax, camphor, cetyl alcohol, lanolin, paraffin, and petrolatum, among other ingredients. Some varieties contain dyes, flavor, fragrance, phenol, salicylic acid, and sunscreen.

Nothing like cracking your lips out in the desert or in the hot heat. Gotta love cracked lips. Stings a little, but hey, shows how hardcore I am, right? Also really good for leaving blood stains on everything you'd want to kiss. Not to mention how fun that beer is gonna be at the end of the day. Not to mention how fun it will be when you go out tomorrow!

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9. Sunscreen

Sun Burn Protection

Sunscreen, also known as sunblock, is a lotion, spray, gel, foam, stick or other topical product that absorbs or reflects some of the sun's ultraviolet radiation and thus helps protect against sunburn. Diligent use of sunscreen can also slow or temporarily prevent the development of wrinkles, dark spots and sagging skin.

Lobster alert! Looks like a red chalkboard. Can we leave a message written on your skin? Ouch! I hope your trip is lasts a couple days longer while you heal up. Hope you got in more than one ride to make this trip worth it! Cover up or wear some sunblock. Don't be the lobster in the bar at the end of the day.

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10. Phone

Bring a Cell Phone

Smart phones can do a lot of things (such as allow you to leave snarky comments on Hazard County Shuttle), 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

You can also use GPS tracking apps such as Strava or Trail Guru to record your time out in the saddle. These apps also allow you to see where you stack up against all the previous riders that have logged a time. In addition to recording your GPS most offer the ability to sync up additional sensors like Heart Rate, Cadence and Power Meters.

Phones are also great for some entertainment, or learning while you're out riding. Consider listening to some music, making some playlists for your favorite routes and rides. Also consider listening to news, podcasts, books and more. Learn while your riding!

11. Packable Rain Jacket

Packable Rain Gear

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.

Once you get wet, you just have to roll with it, you're wet, and it's probably not gonna be any fun. Or at least that's what goes through many heads. Personally I love challenging conditions, makes for lovely stories at the pub at the end of the day. However, this is one of those easy “pack it and forget it” items, when you need it, you'll be thankful you have it. It's not just about staying dry. You see, once you get wet, you get cold. Once you get cold, everything goes downhill from there. Stay dry. Pack rain gear. It's that simple.

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12. First-Aid Kit

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.

Especially when your out away from your car or any sort of help. Being your own first responder is the case most of the time. You can also place your first aid kit inside a ziplock quart sized bag, keeping it waterproof.

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13. Derailleur Hanger

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.

Yes, this is the component that fastens to your frame allowing the rear derailleur someplace to thread into. It's the key component that keeps your derailleur attached to your frame, without it, or if it breaks, it's a master fail. Ride over. All it takes is a little effort to find, and wallah, another “pack it and forget it” essential for every ride.

14. Master Link

MTB Chain Master Link

The master link is a single removable link segment of a bicycle chain. You'll hear people also refer to these as quick links. Also, SRAM's version of the master link is called a Power Link. It is sold separately as well as typically included when you buy a SRAM chain.

A master link looks basically like your normal segment of chain link, except that one side has a flat washer that mimics the normal side piece of the link and next to that, to a removable link-shaped clip that slides on and off, usually with the help of a screwdriver, when mounting or removing the master link. You remove the master link to break your chain.

15. Chainring Bolt

Chain Ring Bolts

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.

Sounds strange? Not at all. Especially since we all love to hammer out there, monster legs, bending bottom brackets, power meters through the roof.. yep, you'll eventually start popping off chain ring bolts. Do me a favor, right now, grab your Allen wrench and see how many loose chain ring bolts you have. You'll be surprised. “Your Welcome” ahead of time.

16. Zip-Ties

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.

Strap some goodies to a tree branch for your buds trailing behind you. Even come in handy apprehending some fool doing something stupid till proper authorities show up. They make great poker tools too. You can even string a couple together to get larger diameters.

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17. Spare Spoke with Nipple

Spare Spoke and 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. They also come in super handy as a poking tool. With it's flexibility you can poke out clogs around slight bends or corners.

18. Money

Cash

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.

Especially if you forget to pack items 1-17, this one comes to the rescue. Cash Money is the universal language. Cash Money always comes in handy. Be sure to bring at least enough to buy that helping hand a beer. We love beer.

19. Small but Bright Headlight

Small Trail Light

Having some kind of light packed away always puts your mind at ease as the sunset turns to dusk. Once the lights are out in the desert, its gets pretty dark. We've seen far too many people underestimate how long it takes to ride trails in Moab. Never get caught without the proper gear, having a light is an essential must have.

Even when not out on the trail, think of your light just as if you were a car. Cars don't drive around at night with their lights off (at least they shouldn't be) because it's dangerous. Most of all because people can't see you! Don't become road kill. Light yourself up at night when riding on streets. You might be able to see them, but don't assume they can see you. Make it easier for everyone by wearing lights on your body or on your bike when riding at night.

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20. Tool Roll or Pouch

Tool Roll

It's one thing to have all the gear, it's another to keep it organized and accessible without having to dig through everything to get at a particular tool. Enter the tool roll. The name says it all.

As you get to know your bike better and better, and rides become longer and longer, you'll want to start carrying around all the essential tools and gear. Keeping yourself and your gear organized makes it easier to find things when you need them while in the moment. There's nothing worse than having to dig for something in 3 different places. Especially since chances are you're digging because of some unforeseen event, and you're probably not the coolest headed… I can feel the stress building as you dig for your master link.

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Schedule Your Next Bike Shuttle in Moab with Hazard County Shuttle

When you're planning your next trip to Moab for mountain biking, river rafting, or just getting around, consider scheduling a shuttle with Hazard County Shuttles. Hazard County Shuttles goal is to get you out there riding more, so you can maximize your riding time while in Moab. Give Hazard County Shuttle a call at (435) 210-8082 or schedule online and buy a bike shuttle ticket!

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