What to bring on a guided mountain bike ride

There are a few things that you must bring to take part in a guided ride with a British Cycling Level 2 Mountain Bike Leader.

These are:

A mountain bike in good working order (a bike check will be performed prior to the the start of the ride and we reserve the right to cancel a ride if a bike is considered to be unsafe).

Mountain bike hire on the Isle of Man is available from Erin Bike Hut in Port Erin https://www.erinbikehut.im/cycle-hire-isle-of-man/ and Outdoors Ramsey http://www.outdoorsramsey.co.uk/Cycle-Hire/

A mountain bike helmet – this should be of a good standard and be within its manufacturer’s lifespan (check date in a sticker inside the helmet).

Eye protection – these are required to prevent eye injury from branches etc in plantations but there is no need to spend a lot on them. I use Bolle safety glasses bought online from Amazon for about £12 – you can even get tinted ones!

You should also wear gloves, clothing appropriate for the weather (base layers should not be cotton) and suitable footwear.

You should bring a small rucksack containing snacks, water, a small amount of money, additional warm layers and waterproofs, a puncture repair kit, tyre levers and spare tubes to fit your tyres.

A small rear light is sensible for any short road rides needed to link off road sections.

You may also need sun block and insect repellent (midges can be a problem in summer).

Your guide will carry tools and spares but it always a good idea to try to be independent and bring a pump, multi-tool and a rear mech hanger.

A mobile phone in a water tight bag is also a good idea.