Apart from the obvious (see FAQs 'will my bike be up to it') you will need:
HELMET. Compulsory. A cycle specific helmet that conforms to current safety standards.
DAYSACK. 10-15 litre capacity with at least 2 litre hydration pack. GLOVES. Specific cycling gloves are best. EYE PROTECTION. Sunglasses with interchangeable lenses as forest areas are too dark for standard ones. WINDPROOF/WATERPROOF JACKET. Lightweight and packable. Make sure it's breathable and a good positive fit. SUITABLE FOOTWEAR. If you don't use spd's (in which case, don't forget your shoes!) approach shoes are best with a durable, grippy sole and a sturdy upper.
CLOTHING TO FIT THE ENVIRONMENT
SUMMER
PROPER CYCLING SHORTS. With padded insert. Road cycling shorts are fine although mountain bike shorts are more durable and have handy pockets.
BASE LAYER. Any non-cotton top that is lightweight and designed to be worn next to the skin will be okay. If you are unsure, just go to an outdoor shop and ask for a cheap base layer.
BEANIE. "If you get cold hands or feet...put a hat on" We lose valuable body heat through our heads so bring a beanie to put on when we stop for drink, food and/or look at the view breaks.
EXTRA LIGHTWEIGHT CLOTHING. A spare base layer is a really good idea and an extra pair of socks can put a smile on your face after a river crossing. Any extra lightweight clothing can be stored in a plastic bag inside your daysack to keep it dry.
WINTER
As Summer but you'll need a 20-25 litre capacity daysack to fit these extra items in:
• SPARE FLEECE
• WINDPROOF GLOVES
• WATERPROOF TROUSERS (lightweight and breathable)
• BUFF OR NECK GAITER
• THERMAL TOP (skiing base layer)
In addition to what you would wear for Summer, you will probably need to wear:
• THERMAL LEGGINGS or LONG CYCLING TIGHTS
• LONG SLEEVE BASE LAYER
• FULL FINGERED CYCLING GLOVES (instead of fingerless ones)
FOOD
For every hour of riding that you are planning to do, take:
• 1/2 a sandwich + 1 piece of fruit OR
• 1/2 a sandwich + 1 energy bar OR
• A savoury pastry + 3/4 biscuits OR
• A piece of cake + a packet of crisps
These are examples of amounts and types of food - please feel free to make up your own lunch!
Plan for 6 hours of riding on a full SPINNOFF day.
FLUIDS
You will need 1 litre of water or diluted fluid per hour of cycling - the best way to carry this is in a hydration bladder (usually 2 litres) plus 2x 500ml bottles of water. All riders will have an opportunity to re-fill bladders and bottles after 3 hours of riding. During hot weather, drink 2 pints of water before riding and mix fruit juice with one of your bottles of water and add a pinch of salt.
MEDICATION
Make sure you inform us of any medical conditions and that you bring the relevant treatments that you need. |
