Mountain Biking Checklist

Note: This list is intentionally extensive. Not every rider will carry every item on every trip.

For a printer-friendly version, click Print Checklist (PDF) at right.

The Two Essentials

• Bike

• Helmet

Core Gear

• Hydration pack
• Eye protection (sunglasses or clear lenses)

• Gloves
• First-aid items (see our First-aid checklist)

Core Repair Items

• Spare tube or tubes (and/or patch kit)
• Compact pump

• Tire levers
• Cycling multi-tool (with Allen wrenches)

Basic Clothing (plus clothing for variable weather)

• Wicking jersey or top
• Footwear suited to bike's pedals
• Padded shorts or tights
• Cycling socks
• Rainwear

• Weatherproof gloves
• Stowaway windbreaker
• Insulation layer(s) for cool conditions
• Buff/bandanna/skullcap
• Arm/leg warmers

Gear options

• Lock
• Water bottles with cages
• Cycling computer and/or GPS
• Compass
• Saddle or handlebar bag

• Wrist altimeter
• Headlight
• Binoculars
• Taillight
• Emergency whistle

Personal

• Medical info/emergency contact card
• Sunscreen
• Lip balm
• Insect repellent
• Chamois cream
• Small, quick-dry towel (for cleanups)
• Baby wipes (for cleanups)
• Toilet paper/tissue

• Lunch/snacks
• Performance food/gels/drinks
• Maps
• Guidebook or route description
• Trailhead permit (if needed)
• Camera
• Cell phone
• Cash/credit card/ID

Repair-kit options

• Patch kit
• Spare tire
• Pressure gauge
• Chain tool
• CO2 inflator (with cartridges)
• Replacement chain links
• Spare spokes (minimum of 6)

• Lubricant
• Spoke wrench
• Brake and derailleur cables
• 6" adjustable wrench
• Assorted nuts and bolts
• General-purpose multi-tool
• Duct tape

Freeriding gear

• Full-face helmet
• Elbow pads

• Shin guards
• Upper body protection

Personal

• Medical information/emergency contact card
• Sunscreen
• Lip balm
• Insect repellent
• Chamois cream
• Small, quick-dry towel (for cleanups)
• Baby wipes (for cleanups)
• Toilet paper and/or tissue
• ____________________
• ____________________

• Lunch/snacks
• Performance food/gels/drinks
• Maps
• Guidebook or route description
• Trailhead permit (if needed)
• Camera
• Cell phone
• Cash/credit card/ID
• ____________________
• ____________________

Back to Top