| Before you go mountain biking, be sure to bring | | | | small and inexpensive. If you know how to use a |
| along some standard items each time to avoid | | | | chain tool it wouldn't hurt to bring one along in |
| problems. It is essential that you have tools, | | | | case your chain let's go or requires adjusting. |
| supplies, food and water. Since you won't want to | | | | Be sure to take adequate food and water for |
| carry any extra weight, only take what you need. | | | | your ride. Powerbars are great bang for the buck. |
| With careful planning you can be prepared with a | | | | They work very well and prevent you from |
| minimum of items. | | | | running out of energy. Riding when you are |
| One of the most important things is a spare inner | | | | exhausted is no fun and risk of injury increases |
| tube, and the tools to change it. Nothing can stop | | | | because of lack of focus. Water is critical. You can |
| your ride faster than a flat tire, and if you are far | | | | use water bottles if you bike frame has the |
| out on the trail, it can mean a very long walk | | | | mounts or a popular alternative is a Camelbak |
| home. If it's late in the afternoon, you could also | | | | backpack bladder system. It also has ample room |
| run out of daylight. Getting trapped in the dark is | | | | for tools and tubes. Or you can use an under-seat |
| no fun. All you need to prevent this scenario is a | | | | pouch. |
| spare tube (with the right valve type - there are | | | | Always make sure you are dressed appropriately |
| two: presta and schraeder), 3 tire levers to get | | | | for your mountain bike ride. Keep in mind you will |
| your tire off the rim, and of course a pump. | | | | warm up quickly after starting your ride, so don't |
| Mini-pumps work just fine. Cautious types may | | | | wear a heavy jacket that you'll end up removing |
| also want to carry a tube patch kit in case of | | | | it after 15 minutes. It's best to dress in a series |
| another flat. If you have never changed a tube | | | | of light layers. Keep in mind that if it's wet or cold, |
| before, it's a good idea to practice at home first. | | | | your feet and hands will feel the cold the most. |
| Mountain bikes are put together with allen bolts so | | | | Wear riding gloves and socks suited to cycling. |
| make sure you carry a folding set of allen | | | | Your local bike store can assist you in selecting |
| wrenches. Extended rides over bumpy trails can | | | | the correct gear for the kind of riding you will be |
| tend to make bolts loosen up. You also may want | | | | doing so try and establish a good relationship with |
| to make adjustments while on the trail to your | | | | them. |
| brake or gear levers. Allen keys sets are quite | | | | |