Suggested
GEAR LIST
Comfortable but firm fitting clothing is crucial for multi-day trips cycling trips. We recommend the items below at the least. The Mackenzie Country is an alpine environment with variable weather throughout the year. Here’s a suggested gear list.
What to wear
Padded cycle shorts; strongly recommended.
Sturdy, closed toe shoes with socks (running/trail shoes are good). Laces must be short or tucked in. Do not wear sandals. We suggest that you wear shoes that you have worn previously.
Hot days; we suggest that you wear a breathable base layer top (short sleeve) and one outer layer.
Cool days; we strongly recommend that you wear (or carry) warm layers (top and bottom), and full finger gloves.
Clothing must be firm fitting, but not too tight, to avoid wind flap and getting caught in a wheel or chain, which is a safety hazard.
Helmet - provided or BYO.
Gloves: summer = fingerless, with padded palms) to protect your hands from sunburn, slippage, and vibration.
Sunscreen.
You may like to invest in some anti-chafing balm. Chamois cream is excellent for your nether regions.
What to carry
The weather may be cool or hot, and changeable. You must be prepared for weather changes.
A small day pack that you can carry on your back, especially if you aren’t using pannier bags is a good idea. Some day packs have a water bladder carrier. See Camelbak below.
Rain jacket, lightweight and breathable.
Gloves: winter gloves for cool/cold day (full finger) for full protection.
Sun glasses.
Lunch and snacks; dried fruit, scroggin, muesli bars are good high energy snacks.
Maps: included in the A2O brochure. or available on The Great Rides App and the A2O website. Familiarise yourself with the route and stage profiles, and check the trail status daily, before your ride.
Personal medication.
First aid - we will provide one small kit per group, or BYO.
Small dry bag for mobile phone.
Puncture repair equipment is provided. At least one person in your group, must be skilled in wheel removal and installation.
Summer months - pre trip: consider purchasing a Camelbak or similar backpack style hydration system. One or two 500 ml drink bottles and a 2L hydration system allows you three litres of fluid - great when it’s very hot and you have some distance to ride. The advantage of a hydration system is that it allows you to drink safely while keeping your eyes on the road and hands on the handlebar.
Wet wipes or tissues, just in case! There are toilets on the way but be prepared :-)