We asked our MTB tour guide Stu to open us his bag of tricks & share his secrets, so you can see what exactly the guides carry on our mountain bike tours.
Not all mountain bike rides are equal. There's a wide range of variables unique to every ride, some we can control such as which trails we ride, some uncontrollable such as weather & mechanicals. The point is though, that as mountain bikers we should be prepared for unforeseen eventualities - whether we're for a hour sprint in our local woods, or an overnight trip.
During an Alpine South MTB tour last year we caught up with guide Stu to see what he carries on a day to day basis. It seems extensive for a day ride, everything has been carefully selected for a mix of practicality vs weight - a case in point is the Leatherman. Although it's weighty compared to some of the other tools, it ticks many boxes - pliers, knife, screwdrivers and most importantly bottle opener. Carrying the right kit is essential, especially if you're venturing far off the beaten tracks like our mountain bike tours do - so with the help of our guiding team we've complied a list below of what our guides carry on day trips to keep you safe.
Tools
Pump
Shock Pump
Leatherman
Multi-tool including chain breaker
Tyre Levers
Zip Ties
Tyre Boot
Tape
Spares
Innertubes
Park Tool Patches
Brake Pads
Mech Hanger
Chain Links
Chain Connector Links (Missing Link)
Gear Cable
Assortment Of Bolts
Chain Lube
Clothing
Merino Base Layer
Waterproof Coat
Spare Gloves
Sunglasses
Suncream
First Aid
First Aid Kit
Sam Splint
PLB
Food & Water
3L Bladder
Trail snacks, ie Raw Almonds
It may seem a lot to carry on our mountain bike tours, but everything he has it's use, or according to Stu multiple uses. So when you're out on your next backcountry mission, it's worth packing a little extra just in case. For us carrying a few extra grams on the climbs is well worth it when you consider it could be saving you a night on the mountain side or a walk back to the car.