Essential Gear Checklist for Endurance Bike Rides: A KitBrix Guide

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey, careful planning and preparation are essential before embarking on a multi-day endurance bike ride. At KitBrix, we recognize the value of being prepared to face challenges along the route because of our experience traveling from Marlow, UK, to Tiblisi, Georgia. An exhaustive inventory of everything you need for an endurance bike ride, along with tips for pre-planning.

The following items of clothing are recommended: a wicking jersey or top, padded shorts, sports bras, socks, bike shoes, rain jackets, rain pants, weatherproof gloves, stowaway wind jackets, a buff, bandana, or skullcap, arm and leg warmers, and bike shoe coverings.

Equipment and Gear: Includes a frame pack containing a phone, power bank, charging cables, chain lubricant, multitool with a chain breaker, cash, bank card, passport, and toiletries. Two tire levers, extra innertubes, repair patches, a pump, and mini-pumps are among the tools and spares. Good-quality lights for front & rear (preferably rechargeable & weatherproof).

Extra supplies: water bottles, some snacks & energy bars or gels, sunscreen, lip balm, and a recovery drink/powder at the end of the day?

1. Navigation Tools: a GPS device, maps, or a smartphone with navigation apps with GPS. 
2. First Aid Kit: Include items like adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, blister treatment, chaffing cream, and any personal medications you may need unless in a support vehicle.
3. Emergency Gear: Reflective gear, a whistle, and a small emergency blanket can be invaluable in unexpected situations. Rear wheel guards to stop spray when wet are called bum guards or arse savers.
4. Bike Lock: Especially if you plan to make stops along the way, having a good-quality, lightweight bike lock can offer peace of mind.
5. Unaccompanied: Camping Gear (if applicable): tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pador bivvy bag, camp stove, cookware, and food supplies if you plan to camp along the route.
6. Repair Kit: In addition to the tools, gas cylinders, and spares you mentioned, consider including some essential spares, such as brake pads, brake cable, extra nuts and bolts, and zip ties for unexpected repairs.
7. Communication: a whistle or signaling device, and possibly a two-way radio if you're traveling in a group or want to stay in touch with someone off the bike route.
8. Emergency Contact Information: A list of emergency contacts and any relevant medical information, kept in a waterproof pouch, plus a written name on your gear and an ICE (In Case of Emergency) number recorded on your phone.
9. Extra Clothing: Depending on the climate and season, you may need additional layers or specialized gear, such as a lightweight down jacket for colder nights or a lightweight, breathable hat for sun protection.
10. Cash and Coins: In addition to your bank card, having some cash and coins for small purchases or emergencies in areas where card payment might not be accepted can be helpful. Plus passport and any visa’s. Take a picture of your passport and visa on your smartphone
11. Bike travel case:If flying to your destination, you will need a bike travel case (soft and hard versions are available) for your bike. Pack smartly to lighten your load and make sure everything functions well. Remember, you may need to pay extra when taking a bike on a plane. Click to learn about one of your best companion gear transition bag for riding!

With proper gear and route planning, you'll be ready to overcome any challenge and enjoy the thrill of the open road. Explore and get the checklist from KitBrix to have a safe journey!