What’s in my bag?

I was talking to a customer last week about what she carries in her seat bag and I thought it would be helpful to post what I carry in my bag.

Once you start venturing out past the edge of town and enjoying the countryside, there are a few things you should keep with you in the bike so you can handle most if not all of the things that can go wrong on a ride.

Spare Tube – This is probably the most useful item in your seat bag. Flats happen all the time and out on the road you can encounter glass, sharp rocks, and even thorns on the road. Having a spare tube is a great way to handle that unexpected flat.

Something to fill the spare tube with air – This one is easy to forget, but it’s kinda obvious. If you’re going to fix your own flat you need to be able to pump up your tire. I carry CO2 cartridges and an inflator, but you can also choose to carry a small pump either on your bike or in your pocket.

Tire levers – You need a way to get the tire off the rim, and tire levers get the job done. You need at least one, but they come in pairs so just stick them both in the bag.

Multi-tool – These are great for a quick adjustment on your ride, and they can also be essential if something comes loose or brakes while you’re out there miles from home. They usually have a few different sized hex wrenches, some screwdrivers, and Torx or socket tool. Keep it simple and you’ll be fine for most issues.

Sunscreen – You can get sunscreen in little packets that fit right in the bag. They’re great when you get out on the road and remember that you didn’t apply at home. (You did apply at home, right? Make sure you get the tips of your ears.)

Emergency contact information – This is the most important item you can carry on your bike (or your body if you have a RoadID). I have a little zip lock bag with a note with my name and the name and number of the person I want called if I’m found on the side of the road. Evan if you carry your wallet or credit card with you on a ride, having an emergency contact name and number can be really helpful.

Trail Pass – I buy a state trail pass every year (in addition to a Dane County Mountain Bike Pass) to help support our trails network in the state. The sugar River Trail and the Badger State Trail both require a trail pass.

Depending on how far you’re going, you can also stash an energy bar or gel in your bag in case you start to bonk on your ride. You may also want to get a bag that’s big enough for your wallet, car keys, or garage opener.

I have two bikes I ride for fun and each has a bag stock with these items. I tried swapping bags between bikes but I kept forgetting and then I’d be out on the road without one.

That’s it! Once your bag is packed you don’t have to worry about it and you can ride knowing you have the essentials to get you back home if something happens on your ride. Ah, but do remember to replace the tube and CO2 cartridges if you end up using them. Back when I was riding a lot I forgot to restock and had another flat. That forced me to call my wife for a ride home.

Look for an announcement of a “fix-a-flat” class at the bike shop in May. Having the right supplies only works if you also have the knowledge and skills to use them.