Cycling kit

Essentials

• You’ll be sent a full kit list of all the things you need to accomplish your event successfully. Any questions just talk to the Mind Events Team.

  Buying a new bike (bikes are provided for all events outside Europe) – if you’re looking at a new bike then look to spend a minimum of £250, as anything below this will be heavy and the parts will wear out very quickly. Seek advice from a local bike shop before buying anything. (£250 plus)
• Servicing your bike – your bike must be in good working order to enable you to enjoy your ride, if in doubt, or embarking on a reasonably long ride then it is better to let a experienced bike mechanic have a look at it. (Service charges start at about £25 depending what needs doing.)
• Helmet - these are very light and comfortable nowadays and you barely know you have one on. They will also more importantly save your life if you fall or are knocked off your bike. (These cost from about £25 for an adult’s size.) You will always be required to wear a helmet when cycling with Mind.
• Bicycle pump that fits to the bike. (£12 plus)
• Bicycle multi tool, these have all the Allen keys and screwdrivers to mend or adjust anything wrong with your bike whilst out on a ride. (£12 plus)
• Inner tube plus puncture repair kit - It is advisable to carry at least one of these items in case of a puncture whilst out riding. It is easier to put the new inner tube in, then mend the puncture at your own convenience, you can then use this one as the spare tube. (£5 plus )
• Cycling shorts (£10 to 25)
• Sports bra. Remember some companies do different cup sizes that are particularly useful for above C cup. (Price £20 to £30).

Basics

• ‘Wicking’ shirt (non cotton) - (£20 to £30)
• Waterproof jacket - it is handy to have one of these with you at all times as you can also use it to keep you warm if you have to stop at all. (£35 to £150)
• Gloves - a pair of cycling gloves will stop you from getting blisters if you are new to riding and will also cushion the palm of your hands from getting pins and needles. (£12 to £30)
• Water bottle - it is very easy to dehydrate without noticing. A simple water bottle can hold around a litre of fluid (£5 to £15).
• Rucksack / Saddle bag - Some sort of bag is handy for keeping all your kit in. (£15 plus)
• Reflective gear and lights– more visible on dark nights. (£5 plus)

Nice extras

• Light, long sleeved thermal top (wicking) (£20 to £40)
• Pair of cycling tights (you can get away with tracksuit bottoms, although they are heavier and don’t dry as quickly) (£15 to £40)
• Waterproof trousers (£50 to £70)
• Cycling shoes - these make your pedal stroke more efficient. (£35 plus)
• Cycling socks - These will prevent your feet from getting sweaty. (£3 plus)
• Cycle computer - A computer will measure things like distance and speed. (£12 plus)
• Sunglasses - a pair of glasses will protect your eyes from bugs any other debris. (£10 plus)

Useful links www.outsydecycles.com | www.bonthronebikes.com | www.whycycle.co.uk | www.evanscycles.com

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