Ultra cycling unsupported races are thrilling adventures that allow riders to explore new places while carrying their gear on their bikes. One such epic challenge is the Race Around Denmark, an ultra-cycling race covering a staggering distance of 1600 km. To ensure a successful and comfortable journey, it's crucial to have a well-thought-out gear pack list. In this blog post, we will delve into the bikepacking essentials and the gear I chose for the Race Around Denmark.
Bikepacking Bags: Efficient storage and organization are key when it comes to bikepacking. For the Race Around Denmark, I opted for the Cyclite bikepacking bags due to their lightweight design and ample storage capacity.
Cyclite Saddle Bag Small (8L, 228g): The Cyclite Saddle Bag Small is a reliable and compact option for storing essential items. With an 8L capacity, it provides ample space for clothing layers, sleeping gear, and other lightweight essentials. Despite its generous storage, it weighs only 228g, ensuring minimal impact on the bike's handling and performance. Also the bungee cord is perfect to store big items like jackets or snacks that you want to have at hand.
Cyclite Handlebar Aero Bag (4.9L, 208g): The Cyclite Handlebar Aero Bag is a sleek and aerodynamic bag that attaches to the handlebars. With a capacity of 4.9L, it offers storage space for items you need quick access to, such as snacks, a camera, or navigation tools. Its lightweight design (208g) with the advantage that you can access the bag while riding.
Cyclite Bolt-On Top Tube Bag (1.3L): The Cyclite Bolt-On Top Tube Bag is a small yet practical addition to the gear pack list. With a capacity of 1.3L, it serves as a convenient storage solution for carrying snacks or small tools. Its location on the top tube allows for easy access during rides, eliminating the need to rummage through other bags. My new Fara F/All-Road bike has wholes on the top tube that allows you to attach bol-on top tube bags directly without the need for straps which makes them more stable and slick.
Pack List: Now let's take a closer look at the essentials that I packed inside these bikepacking bags for the Race Around Denmark:
Clothing:
Cycling jerseys and shorts
Base layers
Arm and leg warmers
Windproof & waterproof jacket
Cycling gloves
Cycling socks
Aero base layer
Patagonia Puffy Jacket
Bike Repair and Maintenance:
Multi-tool
Spare tubes and tire levers
Patch kit
Pump
Drip on wax
Spare brake pads
Quick links for chain repairs
Nutrition and Hydration:
Energy bars and gels
Electrolyte tablets
Water bottles
Snacks (stored in the top tube bag for easy access)
Navigation and Safety:
Garmin Solar cycling computer
High-visibility vest or jacket
First aid kit
Sunscreen and insect repellent
Emergency blanket
Personal Items:
Toiletries (travel-sized)
Cash and identification documents
Mobile phone and charger
Camera and spare batteries (stored in the handlebar bag)
Bike Lights:
Supernova AIRSTREAM 2 - Upside-down version
I use this light because is powerful and reliable offering exceptional visibility during night riding. Its high-quality beam provides ample illumination, allowing you to see the road ahead clearly and enhancing safety on dark stretches. A great feature of this light is that it does not blind cars, an issue I had with other light in the past when cycling on busy roads at night.
One of the standout features of this light is the impressive battery life. It can last all night, ensuring continuous illumination during extended rides without the need for frequent recharging. This is particularly crucial for ultra races like the Race Around Denmark, where you may be riding for hours on end.
The Airstream Upside-down light also offers the convenience of charging while in use. With the ability to connect it to a power bank, you can keep the light running while charging it from a power bank which allows me to minimise stops.
Very interesting ! nothing for sleep ?