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A marathon race places very specific demands on equipment, preparation and self-catering. Unlike short cross-country races, mountain bikers are often on the road for several hours - often in remote terrain, in changing conditions. If you are well prepared and have the right things with you, you can not only save time but also avoid cancellations. If you have the right equipment with you, you will be safer, more relaxed and often faster. After all, nothing costs more time and nerves than a breakdown or power cut without a plan B. Less is more - but the right equipment counts. Of course, every extra gram costs energy. That's why you should weigh up your equipment carefully and adapt it to the route length, altitude and infrastructure. A technically demanding marathon in the mountains requires more preparation than a well-supplied event in the flatlands.
This belongs in your jersey pockets or on your bike
1. catering: Energy is everything
The most important point first: sufficient food and fluids. Depending on the duration of the race, you should plan several sources of energy - for example Gels, bars or easily digestible snacks. The aim is to keep blood sugar levels constant and avoid a drop in performance. Electrolytes are also crucial, especially in the heat or on long climbs. If you skimp here, you risk cramps or "hunger pangs".
2. drinking system or bottles
Whether Hydration packor Bottles on the bike - the decisive factor is the quantity. For longer marathons, you should have at least one to two litres of fluid with you, depending on the route and refreshment stations. The advantage of a hydration pack is that you can drink continuously without taking your hands off the handlebars.
3. spare inner tube and tyre tools
A flat tyre can happen at any time - and without preparation it often means the end. That's why at least one Spare tube, Tyre lever and a Pump or CO₂ cartridge as part of the basic equipment. Tubeless riders should also be prepared: Sealant does not help with every puncture. Tyre plugs can then save the day.
4. multitool
A compact Multitool is a must. Loose bolts, a crooked cockpit or problems with the gears can be quickly rectified. Models with chain riveters are particularly useful for long races.
5. chain lock
A broken chain is rare, but crucial for a race. A suitable chain lock weighs hardly anything and can be a saviour in an emergency.
6. weather protection
The weather can change quickly in the mountains or on long routes. A light Rain or wind jacket protects against cooling and is often surprisingly compact to stow away.
7. GPS device
Nothing is more annoying than getting lost on a long route. Although most marathon routes are well signposted, a digital signpost is highly recommended, especially when visibility is poor or junctions are confusing. Most GPS devices can also provide distance and fitness data, such as wattage, to help with pacing.
8. mobile phone and emergency information
A smartphone can not only be the interface to the bike computer, but is also an essential part of the race in case of an emergency. Important: Charge the battery beforehand and ideally use an energy-saving mode. Also useful: emergency numbers and personal data (stored on a card or in your mobile phone, for example).
9. cash or card
Especially at events with several refreshment points or unexpected stops, some cash or a debit/credit card can be helpful.
Where to put the stuff?
Especially on really long marathon routes, you need a lot of food, tools, spare parts and, if necessary, clothes. If you can't rely on regular supply stations or a support team, you have to ask yourself: How do I get all these things transported? While marathon bikers used to stand at the start line with a rucksack, these days you rarely see them for good reason. The extra weight on your back can lead to pressure pain in the back or buttocks in the long term and worsen the handling of the rider-bike system. A clever alternative for self-sufficient cyclists can be compact hydration waistcoats, for example, which weigh down your back with little more than a hydration bladder and a small storage compartment.
Speaking of storage compartments: some marathon bikes now also offer a storage compartment in the frame. Small but heavy items such as a multitool, pump or CO2 cartridge can be stored there. Some frames also offer a screw-on point for a small bag or a holder for a spare inner tube. For bikes without these features, there is still the option of stowing accessories with special Velcro or elasticated straps. In the age of the dropper post, saddlebags have become less important. Only a few systems on the saddle work with a dropper post. The jersey bags remain. These can be used to stow bars, gels and windbreakers. They are not necessarily recommended for tools. Otherwise it can quickly become painful in the event of a fall.
Conclusion
I prefer to pack light for marathons. Two large drinking bottles with liquid energy, bars and gels always belong on the piste. A multi-tool and a tyre repair kit will get you a long way. Electronic aids, such as GPS devices, make endurance challenges more manageable. An emergency jacket is also a must in the mountains. You should try all of this out during training. - Jan Timmermann, BIKE editor
Jan Timmermann
Editor
