Buying High Quality Sporting Goods

If you're planning on taking a long distance cycling trip, then you need to be prepared. You don't want to just jump onto your bike with a knapsack and hope for the best. This list will give you a few of the important items that you should get, if you already don't have them.

Cycling Jersey

You shouldn't wear regular t-shirts on a long cycling trip. A cycling jersey will be better suited for the trip. First off, the material is better for wicking sweat away from your body. A cotton t-shirt will get damp, and you will be covered with sweat for the duration of your trip. If you are sweaty during the morning and afternoon, and then the temperature drops and the wind picks up, you can catch a chill.

The second benefit to a jersey is that they are good windbreakers. A regular synthetic shirt, like one designed for jogging or basketball, won't handle the high winds as well as a cycling jersey.

You can find jerseys in all sizes, even big and tall. Make sure you get one before you head out.

Road Maps Or GPS

On a long trip, even if it's only for a single day and not a multi-day affair, you need maps. You might get 50 miles out and end up on a detour. If that happens, then you need to have a map of the area. It's not enough to plan out a route ahead of time and have it memorized. You need to have a backup plan. Before you hit the road, you need to anticipate problems such as detours and getting lost.

Tool Kit and Pump

Another essential is a small tool kit. This is for doing two main repairs: brakes and tires. The tool kit will allow you to fix brake lines in case they get loose, and also fix a flat tire. The kits are small and will attach to the frame. You should add an extra inner tube to the kit if it doesn't have one.  Also, make sure that you have a small, telescoping tire pump that you can affix to the frame alongside the tool kit.

Padded Cycling Pants

If you're going to be on the bike for several hours at a time, then do yourself a favor and get padded cycling pants. These pants are tight, so they won't cause chaffing, and the padded cushioning make the ride more comfortable.

Click here to find the essentials you need.