What to take

Related pages: | Preparing for the ride | Getting into shape | Preparing your bike |

Travelling light in the summer, you'll be able to squeeze your stuff into a moderately-sized backpack. However, If you plan to camp, ride in the colder months or take longer over the ride then panniers might have to be on the agenda. These can be supplemented by handlebar or seat mounted bags for smaller items you may need quick access to. Do not overload handlebar bags as they can affect the balance and stability of the bike.

Whether it's panniers or rucksacks is down to personal choice. Some hate panniers as they find they move the centre of gravity too low for the more technical off-road sections. But each to their own.

Liquid refreshment

Don't forget that vital source of mid-ride refreshment. No, not beer, WATER!

Fluid intake is absolutely vital on a long-haul route. Plan your stops to ensure you don't run out.

Many cyclists drink insufficient water on long cycle rides resulting in dehydration. The distance coupled with the exertions required on the climbs mean that your body will lose large quantities of fluid which need to be replenished. In the Summer months the problems are exacerbated.

Therefore make sure you carry a sizeable quantity of water. As a guide, a couple of cycle bottles on your bike topped up part way through the day, should suffice. However it depends on a lot of factors so don't under-provide.

What to wear

People ride the Reivers in a variety of attire from the sublime to the ridiculous. There's no hard and fast rules but stick to the following and you won't go wrong:

Helmet
Riding 171 miles without a helmet is asking for trouble. No debate, wear one.

The most vital bit of safety gear in cycling. Wear one.

Waterproof
Go for a good quality breathable version as it will help wick the moisture away from you. Go for a Gore-Tex or equivalent if you can stretch to it. These garments will also offer substantial wind protection.

Pants
Padded shorts or leggings are divine on a long ride so invest in a pair or two.

Layers
Temperatures on the Reivers can vary considerably even in the Summer. The solution is to take layers. Avoid natural materials such as cotton T-shirts and sweatshirts. They do not wick the moisture away and you will be wringing with sweat which, when you stop for a rest, will chill you to the bone. So go for man-made fibres. A high wicking base layer coupled to a light fleece will cope with many conditions.

Gloves
Gloves will keep your hands warm and keep out the wind chill. They can prevent blisters/callouses on long haul rides and cushion the ride on off-road sections.

The following is a basic list of personal kit. Not all of it is mandatory and it will vary according to the time of year. See also the bike kit/spares page for an equivalent list of cycle-related items.

Clothing
Helmet
High wicking base layer
Fleece
Waterproof top
Gloves
Padded shorts/leggings
Trainers/cycle shoes
At least one change of clothing based on above

Personal Items
Sun block
Sun/cycling glasses
Compact First Aid kit
Toiletries
Towel
Waterproof liners
Emergency rations
Toilet roll (think about it!)
Money & cards
Mobile phone
Route map and guide
Prescribed medication

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