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Prepare your supplies
- Having the proper supplies is essential for trail riding
safely. You don't need to carry 300lbs worth of gear to be prepared,
but a few extra tools can make life a lot easier. Below is a small
list of items that you SHOULD carry in you pack on every trail ride:
Camelback - I use a 100oz Camelback with
pockets for supplies. The 100oz reservoir is perfect for trail
riding because it insures you will have plenty of liquid for the
entire ride (you should be taking a couple of gulps every 10-15
minutes to stay hydrated).
Multi Tool - A good multi tool with a sharp
blade and assorted bits (screw driver, socket, etc) will quickly
become the most used item in your pack.
Spark Plug - Don't expect your riding buddies
to have a spark plug for your bike! I would be kicking myself if I
fouled a spark plug 60 miles into the woods and did not have a
replacement(4-Stroke riders are not exempt from carrying a plug!!).
Spark Plug Wrench - What good is a spark plug
if you can't install it in your bike? I guess you could use it to
start a signal fire while you are waiting to be rescued.
Fire Starting Magnesium/Flint - These can be
found at most sporting goods stores for a couple of bucks....I can
hear the questions already...Why not matches or a lighter? Well,
matches are not water proof and lighters run out of fluid. I don't
know about you, but I would not want to rub sticks together to get a
fire going.
Safety Blanket - These are a thin piece of
light weight material that looks like aluminum foil. When folded
these take up about as much space as a small wallet. these can also
be found at a sporting goods store. |