Where to Ride : Ride Preperation
Before undertaking an epic ride or even a short blast along your local trails, you should make sure you are suitably equipped. Okay, so you've got the necessary; A bike and two legs, but there is plenty of kit available designed to improve your enjoyment and safety and is well worth considering.
Personal
The human body under-performs when de-hydrated so we find it is best to drink little but often over the whole course of a ride. Get a water bottle or a hydration pack. We would not consider riding without them.
Appropriate clothing really makes a difference. Cotton tee shirts and jogging bottoms simply flap about, absorb sweat and offer no technical advantages.
Consider a waterproof and/or breathable jacket but bare in mind it won't keep you dry or help control your body temperature without a suitable breathable base layer. When the sun tucks behind the tree line and your sweat evaporates make sure your base layer or jacket (depending on the temperature) is windproof, this will keep you warm without overheating.
Padded shorts or tights stop chafing, gloves can prevent blisters and glasses improve vision whilst keeping debris out of your eye. A helmet protects your face as well as your head. Trees are not known for moving out of the way. If you are riding on your own take your mobile.
Mechanical
To avoid getting stranded in the middle of nowhere it is wise to take along a tool kit consisting of:
Tyre levers tube and pump
Spare brake and gear cables
Chain tool and Allen keys (multi tool)
These tools will cover every eventuality, and are relatively inexpensive to purchase. Store them in a saddle or hydration pack.