Being Prepared On the Mountain Bike Trail

Before you go mountain biking, be sure to bringsmall and inexpensive. If you know how to use a
along some standard items each time to avoidchain 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 toBe 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 aThey 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 innerexhausted is no fun and risk of injury increases
tube, and the tools to change it. Nothing can stopbecause of lack of focus. Water is critical. You can
your ride faster than a flat tire, and if you are faruse water bottles if you bike frame has the
out on the trail, it can mean a very long walkmounts or a popular alternative is a Camelbak
home. If it's late in the afternoon, you could alsobackpack bladder system. It also has ample room
run out of daylight. Getting trapped in the dark isfor tools and tubes. Or you can use an under-seat
no fun. All you need to prevent this scenario is apouch.
spare tube (with the right valve type - there areAlways make sure you are dressed appropriately
two: presta and schraeder), 3 tire levers to getfor 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 maywear a heavy jacket that you'll end up removing
also want to carry a tube patch kit in case ofit after 15 minutes. It's best to dress in a series
another flat. If you have never changed a tubeof 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 soWear riding gloves and socks suited to cycling.
make sure you carry a folding set of allenYour local bike store can assist you in selecting
wrenches. Extended rides over bumpy trails canthe correct gear for the kind of riding you will be
tend to make bolts loosen up. You also may wantdoing so try and establish a good relationship with
to make adjustments while on the trail to yourthem.
brake or gear levers. Allen keys sets are quite