While you may be tempted to spend a small fortune on cycling and camping equipment, consider how often you'll use it in the future. You don't need to buy cycling jerseys if you can't afford them or are not comfortable in them. Also, if you need bike clothing or accessories, start purchasing them now. By doing so, you'll be able to test things out on your training rides, and you won't be burdened with lots of expenses close to the ride.
Your Gear (Luggage)
You will be allowed one gear bag. This must include your sleeping bag. Everything must be packed inside or securely fastened to your gear bag. Pack light and efficiently. We recommend that you bring a large backpack or nylon or canvas duffel bag as opposed to a suitcase. You may want to pack your clothes and sleeping bag in plastic in case of rain. Please be certain your belongings are clearly labeled with your name and rider/crew number. Following is a suggested list of equipment, clothing and firstaid items you may want to bring. Items noted with an asterisk are required for riders.
| Cycling Equipment |
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Bicycle-Make sure your bike is in good condition for the ride. Have it checked out at Iron Cycles or your local bike shop just prior to the ride. Make certain the brakes and gears are working properly-and your seat is at appropriate level for your height. |
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Helmet-All riders must wear an ANSI, Snell, CPSC or ASTM approved helmet at all times during the ride. |
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Spare tubes |
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Tire irons |
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Patch kit |
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2 large water bottles or Camelback |
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Tire pump |
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Small wrenches |
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Cycling gloves |
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Either a fanny pack, seat, or handlebar bag |
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| Clothing |
| To anticipate sudden changes in temperature, choose clothing that can be easily layered. |
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T-shirts |
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Wind-breaker-type jacket |
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Rain poncho (strongly recommended) |
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Cycling shoes |
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Cycling shorts |
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Cycling jersey |
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"Regular" shorts |
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Underwear |
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Socks |
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Sweat pants or tights |
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Boots or sneakers |
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Long pants |
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Sleep-wear |
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Sweatband |
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| First-Aid |
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Special prescription medications |
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Anti-blister aids |
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Anti-chafing ointment (women should not use petroleum based products) |
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Antacid |
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Aspirin |
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Bandages |
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Lip balm |
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Insect repellent |
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Gauze and tape |
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Sanitary protection |
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Disposable plastic bags |
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| Camp Gear |
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Towel |
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Sun-block |
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Sleeping bag or blanket |
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Flashlight and extra flashlight batteries |
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Pillow |
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Pack-towel or "shammy towel" |
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Washcloth |
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Alarm clock (battery operated) |
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| Toiletries |
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Toothpaste and toothbrush |
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Moisturizer |
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Nail clippers |
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Shampoo |
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Soap |
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Razor |
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Deodorant |
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Hair ties |
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| Other Important Items |
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Sunglasses |
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Earplugs |
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Camera |
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Film |
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Watch |
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Journal |
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Pens |
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Identification |
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Money |
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Credit card |
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Snacks |
Note: Be sure to enclose toiletries in water-tight plastic bags. You may bring along a mobile phone. Please be aware, however, that there will be no outlets for recharging and many areas of the ride are outside service areas. Mobile phones and portable radio’s (Ipods) are not to be used while riding.
A Word About Cycling Clothes
Certain kinds of clothing can make riding a bicycle for any duration uncomfortable. Bottom line: you can ride in any clothes you'd like; however well-designed cycling apparel can protect you against heat, cold and rain — even from bumps in the road.
| Here are some basics you may want to include in your cycling wardrobe. Note that you needn't purchase expensive clothing to be comfortable. |
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Cycling shorts have a strategically-placed liner/padding sewn into the seat to help reduce chaffing, in addition to providing extra muscle support. |
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Cycling jerseys keep you cool, and don't flap around while riding. They also have handy pockets across the back for carrying essentials, like tools, snacks or route directions. |
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Cycling gloves protect hands in case of a fall and absorb shock from handlebars. |
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Cycling shoes increase pedaling efficiency by at least 30% over other types of shoes; stiff soles prevent sore feet. |
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Tights provide cold weather protection for chilly mornings or winter training. |
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Wind jacket provides protection against wind and inclement weather. |
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| Other Items That You Might Find Useful |
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Head/sweat bands |
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Arm and leg warmers |
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Thermax/thermostat T-shirts for layering |
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Rain jacket or poncho and pants |
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Cycling-specific eye-wear |
One Last Word About Clothing
A lot of athletic wear (like shorts and jerseys) is made of synthetic material that carries perspiration away from your body, keeping you warmer in winter and cooler in summer. Even though cotton is comfortable, it doesn't wick sweat away from your body like synthetics. Cotton stays soggy when it gets wet and sweaty.
