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General preparation tips

• Inspect the bike: brakes, drivetrain, tire pressure, quick releases and bolts.
• Match tire choice to the surface. Wider tires with light tread help on mixed or unpaved sections.
• Load the GPX or map offline on your bike computer or phone, with a fallback paper option if possible.
• Check the weather forecast for the whole ride window and pack rain protection if needed.
• Carry enough water and food for the planned distance and the gap between resupply points.
• Pack a basic repair kit: pump, spare tube, tire levers, multitool and a chain quick link.
• Charge the phone and GPS, and bring a power bank for longer rides.
• Use front and rear lights if you may finish near dusk, in tunnels, or in bad visibility.
• Match the route to your current fitness and skill level, not your best possible day.
• Share your plan with someone and have an emergency contact reachable.