Packing for the Real MTB Adventure: Stage Racing

Wow – Here I am, overexcited about the idea of racing another stage race; the Trans Savoie in France, only a few weeks after the Trans Provence event. Stage races are always special and somehow take us back to the roots of mountain biking. For an entire week, we will go from one camp to the other, riding the best trails the area has to offer with all the other participants; both pros and amateurs alike. I really like these kind of events, the unknown trails and long days in the saddle (7 to 10 hours), the daily challenges, and above all, the nature.

Every stage race kicks off with the feeling of missing something. Although packing is part of my routine I am always afraid I’ll forget something important. There are a few things than cannot be left at home: earplugs, my MP3 player with some playlists of my favorite music, blister patches, sun cream, a sleeping bag, my own pillow, spare parts like tires and a derailleur hanger… and a woolen beanie for the chilly mornings and evenings at the camp.
Most stage races offer tech support. But most of the time the mechanics are super busy and it is safer to bring your own spare parts and have a few mechanical skills.

To help you pack for your next stage race, I’ve decided to share my list with you:

Riding gear

• Riding clothes for long days on the bike. There is no washing machine so take a kit per day and three to four pairs of gloves
• Rain jacket and waterproof accessories
• Helmet – check if a full face is required
• Goggles and normal glasses
• Knee protection (elbow optional)
• Two pairs of MTB shoes (for replacement in case of rain): they need be ones that are comfortable for long walks in rocky conditions
• Backpack with camelback


Spare parts & tools

• Spare parts: brake pads and discs, derailleur and derailleur hanger, chain and chain link, zip ties, shifting cables. If you have enough space, pedals and a saddle might be useful too.
• Chain oil and a cleaning cloth
• Two tires: tubeless and solid tires are strongly recommended
• Suspension pump
• Tire pump
• CO2 cans
• Multi-tool


Nutrition

• Water bottles for electrolyte drinks
• Two camelback pouches (2 liters each): for water
• Electrolyte tablets or powder (Isostar tabs are very practical) and recovery shakes
• Gels and bars : vary the flavors and try to mix sweet with salty food
• Your favorite breakfast


Others

• Waterproof travel bag
• Comfy long pants, fleece, beanie and warm jacket for the mornings and evenings
• Sunglasses
• Sun cream
• Bikini (you never know, there might be a lake next to one of the camps!)
• Two microfiber towels
• Headlamp
• Sleeping bag and own pillow
• Earplugs
• Flip flops
• Blister patches (use them before you need them!)
• First Aid kit
• Swiss knife
• Toiletries bag
• Optional: Yoga mat and black roll

Now that you’ve packed everything, you can relax and enjoy the ride. Have fun!

Kerstin Kögler, BMC Factory Trailcrew