Over many seasons of riding our staff have narrowed down the things they love (and use) the most in their mountain bike kits. We go back to these items time and time again because they work, stand the test of time, and make our bike rides more enjoyable. Check them out!
Specialized EMT Cage Mount MTB Tool 55$
This little multi-tool packs a punch. It may be small, but it carries everything you need, no more no less. It features 3, 4, 5, 6, and 8mm allen keys, a T25 torx, and a slotted screwdriver. Pair it with a Zee Cage (as pictured, 25$) and you will have a no rattle, easy access multi-tool because riffling through your Camelback gets old quickly when mosquitos are out.
Genuine Innovations Tubeless Tire Tackle Kit 28$
Flats with tubeless are uncommon, but when they happen it’s absolutely no fun at all. This kit includes two presta valve cores, basically the part that you open and close on a presta valve. 10/10 would recommend having some with you, plus the case has a machined valve core tool built into the bottom.
The second part of this kit is five tubeless tire plugs and the ream tool. They make saving your tire from a cut simple business to fix. Just put the plug in the middle of the ream tool, and jam it into the cut on your tire. Voila, no need for a tire boot.
Shoes come in different sizes, why not pedals? This pedal was designed in S/M (euro 36-44) and M/L (euro 44-50) so that riders can get the best possible grip to their pedals. The pins are long and adhere well to MTB shoes, plus they are easily replaced. For those that are used to pedal care, they are also easily serviced so that you can have your pedals riding at 100% every season.
Camelbak Repack LR4 Belt 1.5 Litre 119$
Some staff are definitely guilty of cracking jokes about the “fanny pack” trend but these are actually amazing. They carry 1.5 litres of water and enough space to stash essentials. The Repack really impressed on longer cross-country rides where a water bottle just didn’t cut it. Besides, who actually likes carrying gear and a spare water bottle in their jersey or short pockets? The big benefit is that it is lightweight and not hot unlike a full-size backpack. We give this pack two thumbs way, way up!
Serfas True 1000 MTB Headlight 139$
This light is truly exceptional, great lumen output, rugged frame, and fast charging. It has a USB-C charging port and comes with both a handlebar mount and a go pro mount (for helmets). The light has three solid beam modes (1000, 500, and 250 lumens) and two flash modes. You can also pick up additional bar mounts if you are switching between your mountain bike and commuter bike. The battery lasts 2hr on high and 9hrs on low.
Lezyne Micro Floor Drive Pump HVG with Gauge 90$
This portable pump is not much larger than a normal hand pump, but it offers so much more. A small footstand unfolds to give you better leverage alongside a longer hose with a built-in pressure gauge. Its equipped with a “flip chuck” that allows you to easily swap between Presta and Schaeder valve types. The HVG version is specifically designed for high-volume low-pressure tires, making pumping them up a breeze (but can still get up to 90psi for your road bike). It would make a perfect addition to any mountain bikers kit.
Specialized Ambush Comp with ANGi 150$
Keep your head safe with this awesome trail helmet. It features MIPS technology with in the event of a crash, helps reduce rotational impacts. It also features ANGi, a high-tech gadget that links with your cell phone. ANGi can detect a crash and call for help if you are unable to, giving those close to you a warning about your crash and your GPS coordinates. These two technologies blended with its lightweight, high coverage frame make the Ambush Comp a great investment especially for a solo rider.
For more information about MIPS: https://mipsprotection.com/how-mips-works/
Giant Mini Control 1 Shock Pump 60$
Perhaps our favorite thing about the Control 1 is its Two Stage Valve technology, allowing users to remove the pump without loosing air. Shocks are so sensitive to pressure changes that loosing small amounts of air can affect your pressure significantly, and ensuring the exact pressure you need is a huge advantage. This shock pump can handle up to 400psi, and it has an air release valve for exact pressure measurements.
Grip. Grip. Grip. These shoes are exceptional. The stealth rubber that their sole is made from adheres to mountain bike pedals. These shoes are a great place to start for flats as their wide, comfortable fit works for most people. Offered in men’s and women’s options, these shoes are great on trails and easy to walk around in after. With a medium stiffness level in the sole, they also offer plenty of on bike control. They also look more like regular shoes compared to other options which is a big plus in our book!
