Check out my list of must haves for mountain biking, including MTB spares, emergency kit and more.
Personal gear
- Helmet
- Mountain bike (usually with spares/repair kit if hired) (H)
- Rucksack/hip pack (longer rides)
- Food and drink
- Spare warm layer
- Waterproof trousers (depending on conditions)
- Money
- Sunscreen
- Small cable and lock (if needed)
- GPS/bike computer/smartwatch
- Mobile phone
- Midge headnet (summer)
- Bike front light/headtorch (if road or autumn/winter)
- Bike rear light (if road or autumn/winter)
MTB must haves
(depending on ride)
- Spare chain quick-link (L)
- Multitool (L)
- Shock pump (L)
- Tubeless repair kit (L)
- Small repair kit (including spare tube, tyre pump, tyre levers, basic tools) (L)
- Spare innertube(s)
- Spare battery (if eMTB)
- Enduro strap/saddle bag
- Spare gear hanger (specific to your model of bike)
Emergency gear
- Small first aid kit (L)
- Emergency kit (survival bag, small group shelter) (L)
H = Hire locally? (Check availability)
L = Group leader
NOT ALL ITEMS ALWAYS NEEDED!
Must haves for mountain biking
Firstly, depending on the length of ride, you may want to bring a rucksack (up to around 30L) or waist pack. Secondly, if hiring, check what MTB spares and tools are included. If riding an ebike, check if you will need a spare battery. Don’t forget a helmet and spare clothing appropriate to the weather (Scottish brand Endura makes excellent kit for Highland riding). Eyewear is recommended – either riding glasses, sunglasses or even goggles. Also, remember your lunch, snacks and plenty of drink to stay properly hydrated. Although not necessarily must-haves, you may want basic emergency kit and mountain biking body armour (eg: knee/elbow/back) depending on your ride.
Are you a guest on an Arc Guiding trip?
Check with the guide when deciding what to wear/pack. Choose items from the list depending on the weather, route and type of group.
Leading and coaching near Aviemore and beyond
The precise equipment you need depends a lot on your route, skills and the weather. And your bike. At least, check you have the basic tools to keep you running, plus enough food, drink and clothing to stay safe and hydrated.
Font and rear suspension (‘full-sus’) can be a lot of fun, but it’s generally not one of the mountain biking must haves. In fact a hardtail (bike with front-only suspension) is often lighter, faster and requires more skill.