Hey guys! I’m Matthew, and I’ve been riding trails around Asheville and the Southeast since 2009. I’ve picked up a lot along the way - mostly the hard way - and I am here to share that a little preparation goes a long way.
Here in Asheville, North Carolina (and in the surrounding Southeast Region), we’re fortunate to be able to mountain bike year-round. With relatively mild winters and seemingly endless trail systems, there’s rarely a bad time to get out and ride. And, if you consider a little preparation before, during, and after your ride, it can make the difference between an amazing day on the trail and a frustrating one.
1. What Condition is Your Bike In?
The first thing to consider is your bike. Make sure it’s ready to ride. If your bike has been sitting unused for months, don’t expect to just hop on and go. Small issues can turn into trail-ending problems fast. If you’re not a bike mechanic (and many of us aren’t), it’s smart to plan ahead and give your local bike shop or your mechanic buddy some lead time - especially heading into busy seasons like Spring, Summer, and early Fall.
In the Asheville area, there are many bike shop recommendations, including: Asheville Bicycle Company, Epic Cycles, Find Your Line, Gravelo Workshop, Liberty Bicycles, Motion Makers, MustAsheville, and more. Whether it’s a tune-up or a bigger repair, giving them time to get your bike dialed in is worth it.
2. Essential Gear
- Helmet: Helmets typically last 3–5 years but should be replaced immediately after any significant impact. Even if unused or undamaged, materials like foam and plastic degrade over time due to UV exposure, sweat, and environmental factors.
- Gloves: Improve grip and reduce fatigue.
- Eye protection: Keeps dirt, bugs, and branches out of your eyes. (Polarized lenses aren’t recommended due to depth perception needs on the trails).
- Footwear: Whether you ride clipless or flats, comfort and grip are key.
- Padded Bike Shorts: Reduce friction, prevent chafing, and alleviate pressure points by providing a cushioned, moisture-wicking layer between you and the saddle.
3. Tools
These can be carried in a hip bag, frame bag, saddle bag, or backpack.
- Bike multi-tool w/ Chain tool/Tire Levers
- Mini-Pump or CO₂ adapter and cartridges
- Spare tube(s)
- Patch kit
- Electrical tape & zip ties
- Swiss Army multi-tool w/ a blade
These items are lightweight but incredibly valuable when something goes wrong miles from the trailhead.
4. Food & Hydration
- Mountain biking burns energy quickly, especially on climbs. Bring more water than you think you need. Water Bottles w/ frame cages are common, as well as small bladders, and large hydration packs for longer rides.
- Pack simple, high-energy foods like bars, gels, hydration tablets/powders, trail mix, fruit, peanut butter &; jelly sandwiches, etc…
Fueling properly helps you avoid bonking and keeps your ride enjoyable from start to finish.
5. Navigation & Identification
Even familiar trails can surprise you.
- Carry a map, GPS device, or trail app (a hard copy is recommended, in case your phone/device loses power)
- Download maps and/or take pictures of maps if you’ll be out of service
- Always bring ID
- Let someone know where you’re riding and when you expect to return
These small steps add an important layer of safety.
6. Extras That Make a Difference
Once you’ve got the basics covered, a few additional items can improve your experience:
- First aid kit
- Headlamp
- Sunscreen & lip balm
- Weather-appropriate clothing
- Small pack or hip bag
- Bike rack for transport
Conditions can change quickly in the mountains, so it pays to be prepared.
Overall...
Mountain biking is a great way to unplug, challenge yourself, and experience the great outdoors. And with a bit of preparation, you can help to minimize any challenges along the trail. Over time, you’ll refine your gear based on your riding style, local terrain, and personal preferences. Start with the basics, learn what works for you, and adjust as you go. Stay safe, keep your bike maintained, and enjoy the ride - because in places like Asheville (and the surrounding area), the trails are always waiting.
Matthew’s Bike Quiver
- My Mountain Bike: Kona Big Honzo DL, 27.5+
- My Townie: Giant Talon, 27.5
- What I bring: mini-pump, electrical tape, zip ties, small hydration bladder, camelback pack (longer rides), hip pack (short rides), snacks, bike multi-tool, swiss army knife, tubes, patch kit, zip ties
- Where I ride: Bent Creek Experimental Forest, Lake James Trails, Fonta Flora Trails, Gateway Trails, Pisgah Forest (Brevard), Dupont State Forest