Cross-Country

Our cross country rides usually involve heading out to the moors and riding on trails that can be anything from rocky, muddy, snow covered and sometimes all of these combined! Also, as it's the moors, the weather can change quite dramatically in a short space of time and so it's important to bring the right type of clothing. Below you'll find a list of equipment we recommend you bring whilst riding cross-country:

• Helmet: Protects your head when you fall, which can happen to even the best. Preferably, make sure you've got a good fitting helmet, you're local bike shop should be able to help you in choosing one. Remember, if you don't have a helmet then you can't ride with us.
• Mountain bike tyres: Due to the type of ground we'll be riding on we recommend that you use a set of knobbly mountain bike tyres. On cheaper bikes it's unlikely that these will be fitted as standard and so check if you're unsure by either emailing the club (socs224@york.ac.uk) or asking at your local bike shop if you plan to buy a set- which we'd recommend if you plan on riding with us often. Failing that, there's probably someone in the club who can lend you a set for your first ride as long as you email us in advance.
• Puncture repair kit: Very important as it stops you being stranded in the middle of nowhere with a flat, although usually we're not that mean and someone can probably help you out! Simple puncture repair kits can be bought for a couple of quid from bike shops or most supermarkets. A couple of tyre levers, a pump and possibly a spanner if your wheels don't have quick release would also be useful- although we can probably lend you these if you ask before hand. For how to fix a puncture see our puncture repair guide
• Outdoor Clothing: It can be gloriously sunny and freezing rain all in one ride so you need to come prepared. Especially for winter riding you will need a waterproof jacket, some warm clothing, suitable outdoor trousers (not jeans) etc. For summer, a pair of shorts and a t-shirt will do as long as you pack some waterproofs in case the weather turns. As for footwear, an old pair of trainers you don't mind getting muddy will do. For both seasons, cycling gloves are a very good idea- they give you grip, will protect your hands if you fall and keep you warm in winter. -Alternatively- you could go the all lycra route, some people do, some don't.
• Water: Very important. You will need LOTS. About two litres will usually be enough but if you know you drink more than others then bring more. Many people tend to underestimate how much water they will really need- Don't!
• Food: Again, some may underestimate just how much you really need. It's best to bring yourself lunch as we're usually out all day- try and avoid greasy foods etc as they'll leave you feeling pretty unwell for the rest of the ride. Snacks are highly recommended to give you an energy boost whilst riding- chocolate, energy bars or raisins and bananas, for the more health conscious of you, are all good sources of energy. Also, make sure you have a good meal the night before!

So that covers most of the things you'll probably need on your first cross-country ride with us. With regards to bike preparation, make sure your brakes and gears are working properly. If they're not then someone in the club may be able to help you out if it's something minor, otherwise it's best to take it to a local bike shop to make sure your bike is safe to ride again.