Hey, if you're gearing up for RAGBRAI, there are definitely some things you should have on hand to make your ride smoother and more enjoyable. First off, I'd recommend a good bike, obviously. My friend Jake went to RAGBRAI last year, and he regrets not upgrading his bike beforehand. He had an older model, and it broke down on day three, forcing him to spend about $200 on repairs. Don't be Jake; make sure your bike is in top-notch condition. We're talking about bikes that can endure 50-70 miles a day for a week straight.
You'll want reliable cycling gear, too. Jerseys made from moisture-wicking fabric can keep you cool, while padded shorts can save your rear end from a world of hurt. Trust me, after 68 miles on day two, you start feeling every bump and crack in the road. Speaking of day two, it's typically one of the tougher days, so extra padding in the saddle region can be a lifesaver.
Hydration is another thing you won't want to skimp on. I use a hydration pack that holds up to 2 liters of water, which keeps me from having to stop frequently to refill. During RAGBRAI, you'll be burning calories at an astonishing rate, and staying hydrated can make all the difference in how you feel at the end of the day. My buddy Mark underestimated this and ended up feeling sluggish and crampy because he'd only packed a single water bottle. That was a mistake he didn't repeat for the rest of the trip.
Don't forget sunscreen. I bring a high-SPF sunscreen for my face and a spray for quick application on my arms and legs. You'll be in the sun for 7-8 hours a day, and even a small sunburn can make the rest of your week miserable. Just think—70 miles through cornfields with a sunburn on your thighs. Not fun. It happened to Laura, a friend of mine, and she still talks about it two years later.
Now, let's talk shoes. Forget your everyday sneakers; you'll want cycling shoes that clip into your pedals. These can increase your pedaling efficiency by up to 30%. I've read that professional cyclists swear by them, and after trying them, I see why. You get more power from each stroke, and over 500 miles, that's a huge benefit. My first time using clip-ins was a game changer; it's like going from driving a sedan to a sports car.
While we're on the topic of efficiency, I always bring a multi-tool for quick fixes. A RAGBRAI veteran, Lisa, once told me that her multi-tool saved her countless times. The last thing you need is to be stranded in the middle of nowhere with a bike issue. Tire levers, a compact air pump, and a patch kit are also essentials. Statistically, there's about a 20% chance you'll get a flat over the course of the ride, so better safe than sorry.
Think about your tech, too. My Garmin bike computer gives me all the data I need—speed, distance, heart rate, and even elevation gain. Knowing that you’ve climbed 2500 feet in a day can be surprisingly satisfying. I also use it to keep track of hydration levels and calorie burn, which helps me manage my food and water intake more effectively.
Speaking of food, energy gels and bars are your best friends. A lot of riders, including me, rely on these for quick, easily digestible calories. You can burn between 3000-6000 calories a day during RAGBRAI, so having these on hand can stave off those energy crashes. Andy, another RAGBRAI regular, even carries a small peanut butter sandwich for a more substantial mid-day snack. He's a quirky guy but knows his stuff.
And sleeping arrangements? Ah, crucial! A lightweight, compact tent and sleeping bag are must-haves. You’ll sleep better if you're comfortable. Campsites can be pretty tight, so compact gear is a bonus. Emma used to bring this enormous tent that took up so much time and energy to set up. She switched to a smaller, more efficient model and couldn’t believe the difference. Compact gear nets you more rest and time to relax.
I also recommend taking a few comfort items like foam rollers and massage sticks to help with muscle recovery. You wouldn't believe how stiff you can get after days of cycling. These little tools can be lifesavers. Even RAGBRAI guidebooks suggest focusing on recovery to make each day better than the last.
Finally, download any RAGBRAI-specific apps for updates, tips, and community forums. These apps can provide route updates, weather forecasts, and even let you connect with other riders. It's like having a support crew in your pocket. I made some great friends through these apps last year; we still ride together occasionally.
Overall, gearing up for RAGBRAI requires some thoughtful preparation. Whether it's ensuring you're well-hydrated or making sure your bike is in tip-top shape, having the right gear can make a world of difference in your overall experience. If you need a more comprehensive guide, you can find one RAGBRAI Packing List.