What to Pack for TranRockies Gravel Royale
By: Marshall Opel
Gravel stage racing is the glamping of bike packing. You roll into camp and your tent is already set up. The showers are hot, your refreshments are cold and a delicious nutritious dinner is on the way.
You can optimize your experience by working to control what’s controllable. Of course the weather, the terrain and everything else will do its thing. Your job is to respond to external events. Whether your packing style is controlled chaos or mise-en-place, now is the time to get it right.
Even though we’ll be riding under late August skies, storms can roll in fast. Especially in these parts. A warm sunny day can turn into a soggy graupel snowstorm in minutes. Our gear list spells out exactly what you’ll need for the week. Some of the gear is mandatory, the rest is merely suggested.
It’s Better To Be Ready
Because our venue is the heart of the Canaidan Rockies, riders have to be ready for adverse weather conditions and backcountry style riding. Taking time to pack systematically will help you stay organized and be prepared.
Mandatory Gear List:
Helmet- Love your brain by carefully checking your helmet’s condition. If it’s old or has protected you in any prior crash, replace it.
Waterproof jacket -Staying warm during a storm is critical for your safety. Professional cyclocross racer, Michael van den Ham pre rode the course and said having a solid jacket was essential for him. Note this jacket needs to be more than a windbreaker, i.e. it needs to keep you dry.
Long finger gloves- freezing your hands is the worst! Losing dexterity due to cold fingers is dangerous and usually preventable. Bring quality long finger gloves that are ready for cold/wet conditions.
Emergency blanket - This is a good idea for any adventure. It packs small and in the short-run, can save your bacon in a storm or in protecting against heat exhaustion. Here’s to hoping it stays in its package.
Required Bike Parts
Because of the global supply chain, our Bike Therapy on-site mechanics will be low on parts. Ensure a stress free week by packing along these essential bits. Make sure they’re compatible with your bike.
Chain.
Derailleur hanger
Brake pads
One brake rotor
Multiple tubes
Note: Most people rarely regret choosing larger tires...
Ch-Check It Out
As you pack, make sure you look over your equipment. Carefully inspect its condition so you don’t show up on race day with a busted shoe or cracked helmet. Just like it’s a good idea to make sure your ride food agrees with your stomach, your gear should function properly for you. If it doesn’t, think hard about replacing it now.
One Size Fits All
Each racer will receive a massive 100L duffel that needs to house all your gear. If you pack smart, you should have plenty of room. One way to save space and stay organized is by compartmentalizing your gear into smaller labeled bags. That way you minimize rummaging (which can lead to unnecessary stress). When you need something and are able to go straight for it, that action releases chemicals that reward your brain. Your past-self tee-ing your future-self up to experience ease. Stoke token collected.
Pack List Notes
Helmet- check the condition
Cycling shoes - check the condition
Camp shoes/sandals
Accessory riding kit- leg/arm warmers, booties, socks, buffs, short/long finger gloves etc.
Riding kit- base layers, jerseys, shorts
Cold weather- rain jacket, wind vest, warm hat
Camp clothes- pants, shorts, t-shirts, socks, insulated jacket, bras/undies, brimmed hat, microfiber towel (Shouts out to Peter Stetina for that tip).
Books/technology- gps, heart rate monitor, watch, charging cables, head lamp etc.
Toiletries- sunscreen, chamois cream, toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, ear plugs etc.
Spare nutrition- your favorite ride/camp snacks, other stuff…
Sleeping bag/pillow- make sure you use a stuff sack.
Sleeping mat- blow it up to check for leaks.
Additional Note on Bear Spray
Riding with bear spray is not required but recommended. If you bring it, make sure you have secure, easy access to it. Pro tip from Mack Wardle: using a scat belt or bear (not beer) coozie. It’s better than carrying bear spray in your jersey pockets or exposed on your bike.
Additional Luggage
If you’re arriving in Panorama with a bike box or any additional luggage outside of the 100L duffle, make sure it’s labeled, it will be transported to Fernie for you.
