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So there we were… staring at Jaime’s mountain bike. Her pedal snapped off the crank, and we were tool-less, gear-less, and totally out of luck. Fortunately, this only happened 1/2 mile from the house, but it really knocked some sense into us. We suddenly realized mountain biking is just like backcountry skiing. You need to gear up, and be prepared for the worst but shoot for the best. After our rookie realization, we reached out to our local bike shop to help create this list of the eighteen mountain bike accessories that are essential to ALWAYS bring on a ride.
When it comes to must have cycling accessories, the first thing to consider is how long of a ride are you planning to go for. Depending on if it’s a one-hour sprint, four hour loop, or a twelve hour excursion, the amount of items you need to bring as part of your mountain bike accessories kit is going to change. For example, if it’s a quick one hour ride, you won’t need to worry about fueling as much. The goal is to keep the amount of items you bring as light as possible, but at the same time, be ready if problems arise.
These next items are what we always bring regardless of length of ride.
Even if you have cat-like reflexes on a bike, always landing rubber side down, you NEED to rock a helmet. As soon as you go off road, there are too many variables to take into account, and your brain is by far the most important asset you should protect. With that being said, in most situations you don’t need a full-face helmet unless you’re doing full-on downhill or aggressive enduro riding.
The biggest difference between a road noggin protector and a mountain bike one is the visor. Nearly all mountain bike helmets on the market comes with one. It serves two purposes. One is to provide a bit of shade against sun rays and help provide better vision. The second is to give your face some protection from low hanging branches and other debris. Although there isn’t an industry testing standard, the Swedish “brain protection” company MIPS is the pinnacle of trying to make that happen. Standing for Multiple Impact Protection System, more than a 100 brands use their liner inside of their models.
Just beyond the helmet, the next crucial piece of equipment you should bring on ANY ride regardless of length – gloves. They don’t have to be some high priced pair either. We’ve had our Giro DND gloves for years, and they worked so well that we just replaced them with another pair. We go into our reasons for favoring the Giro DNDs, as well as exploring a handful (pun intended) of other brands and models loved by local shop owners and our friends who log more riding hours than we do: Get A Grip On Those Handlebars Finding The Best MTB Gloves.
One of the major issues that happens out on the trail is getting a flat. From rocks, stumps, bumps, sticks, and twigs, there’s a good chance something will happen. Without a pump, you’ll be stuck in neutral! Picking up a small pump is easy, right? Wrong! There’s MULTIPLE sizes, so how do you choose? Similar to Goldilocks and the three bears, you need to find the one that’s perfect for you.
You can go with the smallest pump available, but if you do get a flat, you might be there for a LOOONNGG time trying to pump it up. But if you get the biggest one, you will pump up the tire quicker, but it’ll be a lot heavier to carry. For us, we picked the middle size one. It’s big enough to pump in air quickly but not too heavy to carry for the ride. No matter how long of a ride you go on, this is #1 on your must have mountain bike accessories unless you’re running a tubeless tire.
This is your first line of defense if you do flat-out. Inner tubes are as cheap as a cup of coffee so why even mess with a patch kit? Grab that tire, rip out the tube, throw a new one in, and you’re good to go! Even after going tubeless, we still carry one since we sometimes can be as much as ten or twenty miles from the nearest road if something does happen.
If you haven’t noticed, A LOT of the nuts and bolts on a bike aren’t the normal thing you can access via a screwdriver. Besides a standard multi-tool, there’s a good chance you’ll need some other tools that are specific to a bike. That’s where the bike multi-tool kit comes in. From hex keys to tire levers, it’s critical to have this if something unexpected happens out there.
After a mini-pump and a spare inner tube, the next most important thing to bring is some water. The weather might be perfect, but as soon as you start pedaling, you’ll start to get thirsty. And the biggest energy drain is getting dehydrated. At a minimum, bring a bottle. Or better yet, get a backpack with water storage such as the Camelbak M.U.L.E. hydration pack. Water is a good idea, but for longer rides, you need to consider replacing electrolytes as well. You’ll work up a sweat which means you’ll lose vital salts and minerals such as sodium, potassium, and magnesium. This can easily be taken care of with an electrolyte drink.
Rims on a mountain bike aren’t cheap. If you don’t have a tire lever to pop the tire off correctly, you could damage not just your ego but the rim itself. As the name dictates, this simple tool allows you to get the tire off. Many tires are almost impossible to get off without a set of tire levers. If you ever get a puncture, you could be properly stuck if you don’t have one handy. There’s a few different brands out there like Quick Stick or Pedro’s. Is one better than the other? It all depends on personal preference. Be sure to pick up at least a pair of these because they are known to break. And if they do, replace them before your next ride.
If you haven’t noticed, there’s a theme when it comes to must have mountain bike accessories. Are you going for just a quick hour ride or something longer? Since we’re on the conservative side, we always bring a backpack. It’s a no brainer. You have everything you need all in one place without having to think. So, when you want to go out for a ride you’re ready to go. No muss. No fuss. As we stated in the water section above, our go-to backpack is the Camelbak M.U.L.E. hydration pack. It’s no wonder it’s one of the most popular since its inception in 1996. The design is simple, light, and has everything you need. The 9L of storage space is well divided so you can organize your gear easily, and the bladder carries over a 100 oz. We’ve heard from some that the water bladder is difficult to clean, but we’ve had no issues.
I know some folks out there don’t sweat a lot meaning a bottle of water is more than enough. Or maybe you just don’t like the idea of having a backpack on when navigating a trail. A lot of our friends solve this issue by storing their must have mountain bike accessories on the frame itself in a small pack such as the DaKine Gripper Bike Frame Bag. And for their bigger rides, they’ll throw on a waistpack. Some of them like the Osprey Seral series even come with a water bladder so that you can carry extra water along with a few more snacks.
For short quick rides, this isn’t something you need to worry about. It’s once you hit the time marker of being in the saddle for more than 60-90 minutes your body’s battery begins to run-down. Your internal store of quick burning carbs to fuel your cycling engine is running towards empty. Unfortunately, it’s not as simple as eating a giant stack of pancakes in the morning, and you’re good. The only way to restore this is by replacing it with energy chews / bites during the ride. To learn more about how to do it properly, check out our article: Want To Up Your Game? Then You Might Want To Consider Food As Fuel.
Similar to run-flat for a car, zip-ties are a great option to temporarily fix your bike until you can get somewhere to fully fix the problem. We’ve had seat droppers fail. Brake line attachments snap. And all sorts of other things break, and these little guys did the job every time.
If something snaps, just like our pedal, some good ‘ole duct tape could’ve helped keep that piece of the bike together. You don’t bring a mountain man’s sized roll on the trail either. Rather, bring a travel-sized version like SOL duct tape. Or, another way to solve the problem is by creating your own super thin, pocket-sized variation. For the steps on how to make your own custom duct-tape roll, check out this article.
Things happen especially on longer rides. While our good friend Noel is a great cyclist, after hours and hours of riding, he lost focus for a second and went over the handlebars on the famed Sierra Canyon Trail. Blood splurting everywhere and even a bone poking out! You can read about that experience in our article: I Fought The Mountain… And The Mountain Won. With that being said, the Hart Health Day Hike First Aid Kit we came with was invaluable. Another great thing to consider bringing is some extra sunscreen, especially if the trail you’re going on isn’t under a forest canopy.
The living might be easier in the summer, but weather can change quickly when you’re out pedaling. You don’t need a huge puffy but rather a windbreaker like the Patagonia Dirt Roamer. We can’t stress this enough. Keep it simple, ensure its bullet proof, and make it as light as possible. It’s there so that when a thunderstorm rolls in, you’ll be glad you did. And if you’re out riding in the fall or early spring, your best bet is to dress in layers so that if you do get hot or cold, you can adjust accordingly.
The bike chain is an essential piece of gear on your bike. When riding over stumps, rocks, and sticks, there’s a high likelihood that you’ll bend the chain. You might be able to bend it back, but if you have a chain tool and a master link, you can pop off the problem link and put on the new one with no issue. Each “speed” (8, 9, 10 speed, etc.) has different thicknesses and lengths for their links. So, when buying a master link, be sure you pick up the right one.
A multi tool is THE standard backcountry tool you should always carry with you, sun or snow. From a pair of pliers to a knife, this is something you should carry any time you’re out in the wilderness. A Leatherman or Gerber tool are the standards most outdoorsy folk use as they fold up nicely and stay out of the way till you need it.
Some mountain bike trails we’ve been on are brutal on the tires – baby heads, granite shards that could filet a fish, or tight rock garden that could pinch a copper penny. Patch kits are just a good idea as a backup to your spare inner tube(s). They’re small. Weigh next to nothing. And if you’ve already gone through the backup tube and you’re still 10 miles from your car, you’ll be glad you brought a patch kit with you. It might take a bit more work, but a patch kit can cover MULTIPLE flat tires if it happens out there. Better to be safe than sorry with a ride like that!
Yet another example of us pushing the limits because we were having too much fun. Although mountain biking is typically done when the sun is shining, if you’re heading out in the afternoon or for an extended full-day tour, having a headlamp is a good idea. Heaven forbid somebody gets hurt or it takes longer to fix the bike, you’ll be happy you brought one. Once that sun goes down, it can get difficult to see what you’re doing without it.
Besides the items we’ve highlighted above, there are a few others you should at least consider. On those days you’re getting a bit more aggressive or riding alone, make sure to carry ID and maybe even a whistle on a lanyard. Terrible to think about but anything can happen. If you were to fall into a ravine and break your leg, the sound of a whistle will carry further and last A LOT longer than your voice. Also, if you live in or planning to ride in an area that has bears, packing bear spray isn’t a bad idea either.
This list of must have mountain bike accessories may sound long, but we can actually fit everything listed in our pack or on the bike itself. Leave the floor pump and entire roll of duct tape at home. Instead, pick things that don’t take up a lot of space and serve multiple functions. Tire levers come in packs, we only carry one. Our windbreaker is incredibly light and squishes down to the size of a nalgene bottle. The extra tube is wrapped on the bike frame with a cheap velcro strap along with our bike pump. We carry food inside of our shorts. Even the bear spray we carry is clipped on the outside of the pack so that we don’t waste space. Put a little thought on how you want to organize the gear, and you’ll be grateful you did.
We designed this list in a way to make sure you have the must have mountain bike accessories for ANY kind of ride from a short jaunt to a full day expedition. Just like any outdoor adventure, when planning your next trail riding adventure, think about the following:
Depending on how you respond to the questions above, you’ll be able to answer which must have mtb accessories to leave home or bring for the ride. It’s always fun to head out into the wilderness, but be responsible. Keep the rubber side down and happy riding! If you want to learn more about how to start mountain biking, get tips on gear to buy, or just explore adventures you can have from the shores of Tahoe to the mighty Grand Tetons of Wyoming, click below:
Zip ties are a great idea.Thanks Tim L.
Totally agree. 🙂 We’ve literally used them a dozen times in the last two seasons. They’re so great in a pickle… literally. 🙂
Zip ties are something you should have in your backpack or vehicle or wherever. It’s like the visegrips and hammer of the non tool items. Shoes lace breaks? Fixed. Helmet strap? Fixed. Rip your pants horribly? Well, you get the idea.
You’re absolutely right. We carry a HUGE assortment in our truck just in case something breaks from bike to car to cameras. 🙂
Shifter cable! Light, compact and can be a real life saver.
Good call out we’ll have to add it to the list.
For long rides I’ve always brought a replaceable dropout in case you bend or break yours and a cleat for your pedals if applicable.
That’s a great idea too. Never even thought of that. 🙂
To save space in your pack take a few wraps of duct tape and wrap it around the outside of the water bottle if you use one. Get a multi tool with a chain tool built with it and instead of a leather man just get a small light pair of pliers and and a Gerber knife. I always keep a knife on both straps on my back for fast wasy access in case
These are some great ideas. Personally, I carry a leatherman everywhere I go just in case but I can see your point on pliers and a gerber knife instead. Also, heavier = more calories which translates to more beer after the ride at least that’s what I think of in my head. 🙂
you can wrap duct tape around your pump
That’s actually a great idea. Reduce the clutter.
Many accomplished riders rides last 2-4 hrs or more and can be on some real knar. I carry a 3oz. (carry on) bottle full of my favorite tire sealant and wrap about 2′ of duct tape around it, place it along with a Co2 cartridge or 2 in your back pack. A 1$ bill works for temporary sidewall repair too.
What’s your favorite tire sealant? We’re always looking to learn 🙂 Great idea about the $1 bill never even thought about that.
Muc-Off tire sealant Stans Orange Seal
Please don’t throw away that tube that you “ripped out”, patch it at home and use that as your new spare. Tubes should not be used as a disposable item. Climate change is not a myth…
Good suggestion! Patch it up and it’s good to go.
Old tubes are great tie-downs, spacers, etc. I save every old tube I can and am constantly finding new uses for them.
WHAT?!? That’s such a great idea! Never even thought about that. Thanks for sharing that sick tip.
Old tubes work great as a chainstay protector for your bike. Top it off with electrical tape on the ends.
I agree, I try and save and reuse all my throwaway stuff, mtbs are my life.
You do not list a phone on the list. I can only assume that you now believe that everyone has one and always carries it. ….just like a pump , spare tube , and Tyre levers.
Another good thing to have a spare and with you is a derailer hanger! Def saved me when mine got bent on a trail!
Tubeless tires are the only way to go…………Why take the chance getting a flat…
Haven’t had a flat in yrs.
Tom, you’re totally right. We just did it this year and it’s a wonder how much better they are. From giving your more traction on sand to just overall better performance. #Gamechanger
Ripped a hole in the sidewall of a tuneless set up yesterday. If we didn’t have a spare tube we would’ve had a long hike a bike section.
Oh man we’ve been there too. No matter how good the tubeless setup is sometimes that one janky rock can create a rip too big for the stuff to work.
The implication that you dont’t need to carry a pump is just plain wrong, and a disservice to the audience for whom you have compiled this list. Tube, there lever, and pump are still must-carry items even if you’re tubeless. You’re much less likely the need them, but the consequences of not having them are still every bit as lousy.
Good point! We’ve gone tubeless and still carry all that just in case. Better to be safe than sorry. 🙂
I do agree with it, Tubeless or non-tubeless – one should must carry a pump.
Lot’s of great suggestions, personally I still carry the essential items there are a lot of great new suggestion’s in this thread. Slip a $20 behind your phone case just in case. For me, zip ties and duct tape are a must along with the Leatherman or t-19. I still carry tubes (both) sizes and tools for the others out there. They might have thought they could make that last stretch, it’s also good karma to pass that patched tube to the person with blow out, it sucks t pass someone who needs a little help. ? #TrailDad
I started carrying an electric hand held air pump, lithium ion rechargeable battery. This is a good substitute for CO2 cartridges and a hand pump. I recently purchased a small hand held pump from Amazon for +/- $45. If you want to be prepared for more than one flat or slow leaks, be a Good Samaritan on the trail or road, this will help you get the job done.
Indeed a must on long travels…
Very informative post for adventure lovers
Damn with all that stuff you guy’s are taking out on a ride just strap a spare bike on ya back and all is sorted
It may sound like a lot of stuff but it all fits in our little backpack. Unfortunately, when you’re 20-30 miles out in the wilderness you better be ready for anything that mother nature throws at you.
Which of these items would you have used to fix a pedal that snapped off the crank?
Great question! The Leatherman and some duct tape would’ve fixed it enough to get us home.
I always carry a whistle on a lanyard with a form of ID and some money in a pouch. You never know when you’ll end up in a ditch or behind a hedge on or off road!
That’s a great idea!
Surprised no one mentioned bear spray.
That’s a great suggestion! 🙂 Totally forgot about that.
Why isnt there an AA for cyclists im sure it would be useful
Probably because there aren’t many alcoholic bicyclist out there. AAA would be a better idea 💡💡🤣🤣
Great article and comments. I agree with most but question the need for a leatherman style tool – been mountain biking close to 30 years and have yet to find a need for one for ’emergency’ trail repairs (maybe I’ve been lucky?). Zip ties, a bit of duct tape and a mini pocket knife work wonders however 🙂
You’re absolutely right. It depends on which trails you riding and what you’re using it for. The mini pocket knife is another great option instead of the Leatherman. Personally, I’m ALWAYS glad to have the Leatherman in any backcountry situation. Just a little beefier solution. We used the wire cutter segment to cut off the excess part of the zip tie. Did we really NEED to have it? Probably not, but it helped. Also the needle-nose helped with tightening the valve when it got loose on the trail.
I love my Leatherman Skeletool. It’s lighter than most leathermans and has a nice set of pliers with wire cutters and knife. As well as a Philips and flathead. Paired with a bike tool it’s fantastic and fits pretty much anywhere
I carry a spare presta valve core. Have had cores brake or clog up with sealant and can’t get air in or out.
Great idea! Never even thought about carrying some core and they’re super small too. Perfect item to bring on the trails.
Great lists, Uh, I always carry a baggie and some toilet paper. A map too.
That’s a great idea as well. 🙂
I always have 29er tube even though I have 27.5 I saw a trick on Seth bike hacks. You can use a 29 for any size tire plus all my friends own 29er bikes so I got a tube for them if they needed one and if you’re bike has a a compartment in the frame you can paint it the same color as the frame and nobody can notice it I keep 300$ inside it I’ve even seen friends of mine that use tubed tires put extra money inside the tires were the tube is also you can hide money under your water bottle cage
Believe it or not, in an emergency a 27.5 tube will still work in a 29 and you won’t have extra tube for your 27.5.
Great article (you should put a hyphen between ‘must’ and ‘have’, though). Lots of great info. 😊
A charged up mobile phone, what 3 words app and a map.
If you are in AZ the only way to take off cholla (jumping cactus) Is with a Leatherman or gerber
Its a good idea, to let someone know where you will be riding, in case something happens. If you dont get back after a while, they can go look after you
If you put puncture resistant tires & thorn proof tubes and tighten every check air pressure in front and rear shock ( if you have )All you need is your Camelback and food and you’ll be lighter on your bike
You can also include in your first aid kit the following 1. Loperamide just incase you’ll never know when you have to go 2. Pain killer spray I ‘ll have Omega pain killer spray 3. White Flower for dizziness and when you encountered shortness breath
Wow, this is some great feedback. We’re stoked to add these to our 1st aid kit for both mountain biking AND backcountry skiing. Mega-thanks for giving us this info.
Duck tape is a must , blew sidewall once and had a hole in tire , duck tape to the rescue
I use a Cyckit Aeroclam connects to my seat w dropper, in it I carry 29″tube CrankBros multi tool patches Stans Dart tubeless repair, tirelevers w chain capable,derailleur hanger, zip ties and tape, master link and valve.These stay on my bike via Aeroclam at all times so I never have to prepare checklist to ride anywhere. Saves time. She carries one too w parts for her bike and snacks! Carry bags on bars in front can mess up brakes shifter or droppers in event of crashes. Use frame bags or seat bags!
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