Comfy clothing - ie something with a bit of stretch and not too baggy - track bottoms, leggings etc. please do not wear jeans.
Sturdy footwear, a good pair of trainers ( that you don't mind getting muddy!) or a lightweight pair of walking boots.

A couple of thin top layers - ie lightweight fleece, good base layer. (We recommend Polaris BL Zip) - not a cotton T-shirt - it's best to layer up when you go out for a ride as it's easier to take clothing off when you get too warm, than try and put enough on when you get cold. Cotton T shirts aren't really practical, as they tend to hold your sweat, which means when you stop, the T-shirt will be damp and you will get cold easily, then it will be harder to warm up again. If you have a 'thermal' vest or T-shirt, that would be ideal-something that wicks the moisture away from your skin, keeping you warm and comfortably.

A lightweight waterproof/shower proof jacket (We recommend Polaris Chromium)- if it rains it will keep the worst off, if it gets cold or when you stop you'll have another warm layer to put on.
If possible a suitable pair of cycling gloves would be advisable (We recommened Polaris Detox/Vortex). Why? They provide a bit of cushioning to prevent any blistering. Also should you fall off they will help prevent any cuts and grazes to your palms. Cycle helmet - an absolute minimum requirement. Don't worry if you don't have one as we can provide a good quality one for you.

Food and Misc:

• Bring a water bottle, full of water or an energy drink. It's advisable to take plenty of fluid on board when out riding. Light refreshments are provided at lunch.
• Snacks. A must to keep your energy levels topped up when you're out. We advise flapjacks, fig rolls, jelly babies, most fruit & cereal bars. Please don't bring chocolate, firstly there's a good chance it'll melt and get really messy, secondly it's not a very good energy provider. You will get an instant hit when eating it but then 10 mins later you will have a serious drop in sugar levels and be worse off than before.

If you'd like to know what your leader takes out with him on every ride please read below:

• Hydration pack/rucksack, with 2lts of fluids.
• Light weight water proof trousers.
• Good quality multi tool.
• 2 x spare inner tubes.
• 1 x puncture repair kit.
• 1 set of (3) tyre levers.
• Compass.
• Map of the area.
• GPS unit (handlebar mounted).
• Spare quick release chain links.
• Spare rear hanger for mech. (easily bent by rocks etc).
• Adjustable spanner.
• Small track pump. (Suitable for both types of tyre valves).
• First aid kit (Comprising of various plasters, bandages, thermal blanket etc).
• Mobile phone.
• Loose change (for emergencies ie public phone).
• Some snacks and wat