Remember when you were just a kid and you got your first bike ever? Do you recall the feeling of finally learning how to ride it and feeling the breeze on your face? You can do and feel those all over again when you go on a cross-country ride on your new bike. Just remember to pack all the necessary cycling gear before heading out on your outdoor adventure.
Essential Cycling Gear
Bike
Quite obviously, the first thing you need to go on a cross-country ride is a bike. There are two main kinds of bikes that will do well on a ride across the country. First is the touring bike. A touring bike is designed for the purpose of long distance rides on the road. It comes with mudguards and mounts where you can put your pannier, which is basically a container for your gear and supplies. One drawback with touring bikes is that they’re not meant for uphill riding.
Mountain bikes are the best kind in a cross-country adventure where you have to go off-road at times. They are built for rugged terrain and slippery paths. Plus, mountain bikes let you ride in an upright position, which is good if you prefer not to hunch your back while riding. This position also lets you see the road and control the bike better.
There is another type of bike that combines some of the qualities of the two previously mentioned. The hybrid bike sports smooth tires that let you ride on roads with ease, which is good if your route is made up of smooth roads. It also allows upright riding position.
Cycling Gear for Safety and Protection
Helmet
Perhaps the most important cycling gear other than the bike itself is the bike helmet. Cyclists are prone to road accidents because of their vulnerability. A cycling helmet will greatly reduce injuries to the head in case of an accident. In fact, according to Cleveland Clinic, helmets can reduce the risk of head injury by up to 85 percent.
The best kinds of bike helmets are, of course, the ones that are made of high quality material. Look for one that is certified by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). You need your helmet to be comfortable, as well. Also, you need your helmet to fit perfectly. If it doesn’t fit, it has a tendency to come off the head thus increasing the likeliness of injury or death. Look for the Multi Directional Impact Protection System (MIPS) logo, as well.
Eye Protection
Cycling eyewear is essential to protect your eyes from dust particles and projectiles. A good pair of this vital cycling gear will keep your eyes safe from the glare of the sun. When you go on a cross-country bike ride, you’ll be under the sun for hours. Your eyes will take the toll unless you wear anti-UV sunglasses.
Gloves
One important piece of cycling gear you should never leave behind is a good pair of gloves. Some people have sweaty hands, which makes it difficult for them to hold on the handlebars firmly. Make sure you get a pair that provides a secure grip of the handlebars. The gloves also protect your hands from injury in case you fall.
Knee Pads
When you fall off your bike, the knees are usually the ones that hit the ground first. Avoid injuries by wearing knee pads. Choose a pair that comes with hard plastic caps if you want ultimate protection for your knees. If you prefer comfort over protection, however, you’ll want knee pads with softer foam. Invest on knee pads with VPD or D30 technology. The come with padding that hardens upon impact giving your knees a better chance.
Bike Shoes
A good pair of shoes is another obvious choice when it comes to important cycling gear. However, you don’t wear just any kind of sports shoes. You need one that’s designed exactly for bikers. These biking shoes are tougher than the average rubber shoes. It should protect your feet and provide grip on the bike’s pedal.
Lock
Not only do you have to protect your head, you also have to protect your bike. You’ll be surprised how many bike thieves there are in this world. Make sure you’re prized possession will not be stolen by investing on a quality bike lock. This essential cycling gear should withstand a hacksaw and bolt cutters.
Cycling Apparel
Wicking Jersey
Wicking fabrics keep fluids or moisture away. They keep you dry and tell bacteria to go away. This is important since you will definitely sweat a lot during your cross-country ride. Wicking jerseys also regulates the temperature of the body.
Padded Shorts or Tights
You will be happy you bought that pair of padded cycling shorts. The cushion provides comfort during those long hours sitting on your bike.
Cycling Gear for Maintenance
Since you’ll be traveling a long distance and for days, you need cycling gear that will help you keep your bike I tiptop shape. Make sure you have a patch kit for your tires. Pack at least a couple of spare tubes, as well. In case your tires get inflated, a pump will be pretty useful. You’ll need tire levers and a multi-tool specifically one with Allen wrenches. It would be better for you if you know something about bike repairs. Check out this collection of videos by DIY Bike Repair to learn a thing or two about keeping your bike in running condition for your cross-country ride.
Supplies and Other Cycling Gear
Staying hydrated is one of the keys to surviving a cross-country ride. In fact, you need water to survive. You need a water bottle to put in your water bottle cage. However, this will not be enough. Make sure you stay hydrated by bringing a water hydration pack or water bladder.
Other items you should pack in your saddle bag include snacks and energy bars, sunscreen to protect your skin, and a first aid kit for minor injuries. Print and laminate a copy of your medical information as well as a list of emergency contacts. You can’t leave without your cell phone and charger, cash, credit cards, and a map of your route.
Don’t forget to pack some survival gear. In case something goes wrong, you’ll be glad you have any or all of the following: fire starter, flashlight, headlamp, emergency blanket, paracord, Duct tape, whistle, mirror, compass, water purification tablets and warm clothes, among other things.
Before you climb on your bike and go on a cross-country ride, make sure you tell someone of your plans. Inform them where you are going and when they should expect you back. If you fail to return on time, they can check on you. If you don’t respond immediately, they can ask authorities for help in finding you.
Remember, it’s important to be prepared before going on such an adventure. Part of that preparation is bringing the proper cycling gear. If you have other things in mind that you think a cyclist should have during their ride, please share away. Check out The Gentleman Pirate, as well, to find out about survival tips that may come in handy during your ride.
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