Packing for a mountain bike race can be more nerve racking than the race itself! You have to make sure you have everything you need (or might need) for before, during, and after the race, all packed neatly in your car. Bike, clothes, tools, food, water, everything!
Back when I first switched to clipless pedals, I drove off without my shoes a few times! I’ve been pretty good since then though… thanks to always checking my “MTB Race Equipment Checklist” before leaving!
Since it has helped me so much, I’ve decided to include it here for you to use as well. I suggest printing it out and checking off the items as you load them into your car.
___ Bike
___ Water bottles (filled)
___ CamelBak or Seat bag
– spare tube
– tire levers
– CO2 inflator
– mini-tool
___ Helmet
___ Sunglasses
___ Jersey
___ Undershirt (optional)
___ Gloves
___ Shorts
___ Socks
___ Shoes with cleats
___ Energy gel
___ Change of clothes
___ Post-race food and water
___ First-aid kit
___ Bike lock (optional)
___ Camera (optional)
___ Towel
___ Baby wipes
___ Money
___ Registration form and/or license
___ Light (for evening/night races)
___ Floor pump (just in case)
Now just keep this checklist with you and use it every time you pack for a race. (Don’t forget the checklist though!)
Want to print out a nicely formatted PDF copy of this list? Just click here and download one for free. (Right click + “save as” to save it to your computer.)
Levi Bloom is an experienced endurance athlete who has been training and competing for over 17 years. A former Cat 1 road and mountain bike racer (professional class on the regional circuit), he is now a cycling coach (USA Cycling Level 3 Certified) and sports nutrition coach (Precision Nutrition Level 1 Certified).
Leave a Reply