Congratulations on your new mountain bike! Owning a mountain bike is the gateway to countless adventures, but it’s important to ensure you’re fully equipped and prepared for every ride, and these are true for hardtails, full suspension, electric or normal bikes. This guide will walk you through key considerations to maximize your riding experience, including essential gear, maintenance tools, and smart spending strategies.


1. Winter Riding Gear: Staying Comfortable in the Cold

Riding in winter can be incredibly rewarding, but staying warm, dry, and safe is critical. Here’s what you’ll need:  

Base Layers: Moisture-wicking thermal tops and possibly leggings to keep you warm and dry. staff pick: Assos winter base layer, £105 click here

Jacket: A waterproof, breathable cycling jacket to protect against rain and wind. Staff pick: Madison Roam, £99 click here

Gloves: Insulated, water-resistant gloves to maintain grip and warmth. Staff pick: Muc-Off Winter Gloves, £37.50 click here

Waterproof trousers: Essential for keeping your lower body comfortable. Staff pick: Madison DTE 4-season trousers, £99.99 click here

Socks: Wool or thermal cycling socks paired with waterproof overshoes. Staff pick: Assos Winter socks, £22 click here

Helmet Liner: A thin, thermal liner that fits under your helmet to keep your head warm. Expensive but very nice option, Assos Winter Cap, £45 click here  

Lights: Front and rear lights are a must during shorter winter days. Ravemen are a good starting point for bike lights at a sensible price such as the 1000 lumen front light for £65, click here

Mudguards: Finding mudguards that fit, and actually stop you getting covered in gunk is pretty difficult! We find that the best rear mudguard is from Mudhugger as it’s easy to attach and offers plenty of clearance. Front mudguards will be fork specific, but don’t expect them to keep you dry, they tend to just keep the forks clean! Click here to see the mud hugger rear mudguard.

  – Lock: A good easy to carry cafe lock is the Combiflex from Abus. A more substantial, but good value, lock would be the Diamond rated D-lock from Pitbull.


2. Essential Items for Every Ride

No matter the season, you should always carry the following:  

Helmet – don’t leave home without one!  

Spare Tube: Check the side of your tyre to make sure you get the right size and valve type.  

Pump or CO2 Inflator: For re-inflating a flat tire on the go. This option from Cannondale is a real winner, £22, click here

Multi-tool: With Allen keys, screwdrivers, and a chain tool for quick adjustments or repairs. This option from Topeak is a great starting point for £14.99 click here

Tire Levers: To help remove tires during repairs. Without doubt these from Muc-Off are the best. £3.50, click here

Chain Quick Link: A lifesaver if your chain breaks mid-ride. Make sure you get the correct “speed” as they are specific to 10, 11 or 12 speed chains. Click here  

Snacks and Water: Energy gels, bars, or snacks and a water bottle or hydration pack.  

First Aid Kit: A compact kit for minor injuries.  

Phone and ID: For emergencies or navigation.  


3. Tools and Supplies for Bike Maintenance at Home

Keeping your bike in great condition extends its lifespan and ensures it performs optimally. Here are the essentials:  

Bike Stand: Not essential, but a repair stand makes maintenance much easier.  The park tool option is a tried and tested option that lasts forever. Click here

Cleaning Kit: Brushes, sponges, and bike-specific cleaning solutions. Kingud are a great local company for cleaners, and Muc Off do a good range of brushes

Chain Lube: Wet lube for winter, dry lube for summer.  

Allen Keys: For adjusting components, a multitool is good for the trail, but serious work needs proper tools  

Torque Wrench: To ensure bolts are tightened to the correct specifications. Essential if working on a carbon frame. This option from Topeak is an inexpensive basic version.

Spare Parts: Brake pads, derailleur hangers, and extra cables.  


4. Spending Your First £100

If you’re starting with a limited budget, focus on the essentials:  

Multi-tool: (~£20) Versatile and necessary for adjustments and repairs.  

Spare Tube or Tubeless Repair Kit: (~£10) For fixing punctures.  

Pump: (~£25) A portable pump for on-the-go fixes.  

Basic Cleaning Supplies:(~£20) Including chain lube and brushes.  

Gloves: (~£25) A good pair of gloves for comfort and grip.

Bottle cage: (~£10) Essential to keep your water levels up during a ride.


5. Spending Your First £250

With a slightly larger budget, you can add higher-quality items and additional gear:  

Waterproof Jacket: (~£100) don’t limit your riding to dry days!

Hydration Pack: (~£50) To carry water and gear on longer rides.  

Lights: (~£50) High-quality front and rear lights.  


6. Bigger Purchases Once You’re Hooked

As you become more invested in mountain biking, consider these upgrades:  

Dropper Post: For smoother descents and easier transitions (~£200-£300).  

High-Performance Wheels: Lighter and stiffer wheels can dramatically improve your ride (~£400+). 

Advanced Suspension Tuning: Upgrading your fork or rear shock for better performance (~£500+).  

Bike-Specific GPS Device: For tracking routes, performance, and navigation (~£200-£400). 

Protective Gear: Full-face helmets and body armour for aggressive trails (~£150+).  


Conclusion

Mountain biking is a thrilling hobby that combines adventure, fitness, and skill. Equipping yourself with the right gear, tools, and accessories will not only enhance your experience but also ensure you and your bike stay in peak condition. Start with the basics, and as your passion grows, invest in upgrades that match your riding style. Enjoy the trails! 🚵‍♂️

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