What to Bring

After signing up to train and ride over 300 miles, you may be tempted to spend a small fortune on cycling and camping equipment.

First, consider how often you will use these items in the future. Bikes, bicycling accessories, and clothing are available for purchase at a discount price at our sponsor, Machinery Row Bicycles.

You will receive more information on stores and discounts through emails and on the website.You are permitted to bring only one gear bag. If you are tenting, you are also allowed one tent that is no larger than a four-person tent. Your sleeping bag and pad/air mattress must fit inside your gear bag. Everything must be packed tightly and securely with a maximum weight of seventy-five pounds and, for the safety of our Tent & Gear team, without the use of bungee cords. We recommend packing lightly and efficiently, using a large, soft-sided duffel bag.To prevent your clothes and sleeping bag from getting wet in case of rain, it is a good idea to pack your gear in plastic bags inside your gear bag. Clothing for the day can often fit in separate zip-lock bags and sleeping bags and pads can be rolled up and placed in a garbage bag before putting them all in your duffel bag. Label your bag and gear with your name and the participant number you receive at Day Zero.

Transporting Your Bike

Riders are responsible for getting their bikes to Madison and we cannot store bikes overnight before the Ride.You will not need your bike on Day Zero.

What to Pack

Cycling Equipment

Required gear:

Bicycle (Tune-ups and other mechanical service are available all year at a 15% discount at Machinery Row Bicycles.)
Helmet (All riders must wear an ANSI, Snell, CPSC or ASTM approved helmet at all times while on their bikes.)
2 large water bottles and/or Camel Bak (These are required so that you can stay properly hydrated.)

Suggested gear:

Spare tubes and patch kit
Tire levers
Tire pump, frame or mini
Small wrenches or multi-tool
Cycling gloves
A fanny pack, seat or handlebar bag
Clamp-style clothespins for route guide/cue sheets

Camp Gear

Sleeping bag (plus maybe a sheet for hot nights or extra blanket for gyms with A/C)
Flashlight and extra batteries
Pad or air mattress (for tent OR gym floor)
Pillow(s)
Towel (pack towel or chamois towel is best) and washcloth
Alarm clock (battery operated)
Ear plugs and eye mask (some people snore and the gym may not be perfectly dark)
Socks or flip-flops to wear in the gym and showers
Tent, tent poles, stakes, and plastic for under your tent (if camping)

Clothing

To anticipate sudden changes in temperature, choose clothing that can be easily layered
T-shirts (don’t forget your ACT gear!)
Waterproof jacket or rain poncho
Cycling shoes
1 to 4 pairs of cycling shorts
Cycling jerseys
“Regular” shorts
Underwear (for camp; should not be worn under bike shorts)
Socks
Sweatshirt and pants
Boots or sneakers
Long pants
Pajamas / sleepwear
Walking shoes or sandals
Sweatband or bandana
Swimsuit