What to Bring

Your bike! It should be well maintained, fully operational and suitable for the intended ride. We will carry out a bike safety check prior to the ride and we reserve the right to refuse any bike which we consider unsafe or unsuitable. If you are in any doubt please get your bike checked over by your local bike shop before you arrive. Would you like to hire a bike for the day?

Helmet: Essential for safe offroad riding. We will not allow you to ride with us without one. We adhere to the maxim "No helmet. No ride!". If you are hiring a bike from South Downs Bikes a helmet will be provided & fitted for you.

Rucksack: To put your bike spares, food, jacket, camera, etc in.

Bike spares: Two inner tubes, tyre levers, brake blocks/pads, pump

Food & Drink

Water: Ideally a bike bottle or a camelback style drinking bladder. A litre should be sufficient for most rides but for longer rides or in hotter weather you may need more.

Food: Snacks food that is high in carbohydrate, such as muesli bars or nuts and raisins, or simple, in a from that is easy to eat on the go is recommended. Otherwise simple sandwiches or fruit. Additionally, please make sure you’ve had something sensible to eat before the start of the ride.

Clothing

Shorts: Any loose fitting shorts will be fine. Padded cycling shorts are recommended for your comfort.

Tshirt: A technical style fabric or sports t-shirt is best. These tend to be more comfortable than cotton when exercising. Depending on the temperature you may need a longer sleeved shirt as well.

Shoes: Trainers or light walking boots are best. (The stiffer/thicker the sole, the more comfort when pedalling)

Jacket: Windproof/waterproof

Please wear clothing suitable for the prevailing weather conditions on the day of the ride. We also advise that you bring an extra set of clothing to wear after the ride has completed.