# Get Ready For a Long Bike Ride

By Drew Breunig

Prepare for a medium to long bike ride, covering 20 miles and beyond.

- [ ] Ensure your bike computer and your front and rear lights are charged.
- [ ] Prepare for flats. Check that your pump is packed and you have at least one spare tube, tire levers, and a patch kit.
- [ ] Get ready for any adjustments. Ensure you have a multitool (with a chain tool!) and a few quick links.
- [ ] Suit up. Be sure to grab an under-helmet hat or skull cap if it's cold or sunny. 
- [ ] Strap on your lights if you're going long enough to run into darkness or are pedaling along busy roads.
- [ ] Rinse and fill your water bottle(s). Drop in an electrolyte tablet or powder, if you want, especially if you're going beyond 30 miles.
- [ ] Fuel up. Grab some fruit, a bar, or whatever it is you want to eat and stash it in your frame bag or jersey pocket.
- [ ] Top off. Check the air in your tires.
- [ ] Add a few drops of lubrication to your chain and ensure everything sounds good as you run it through the gears.
- [ ] Tell someone where you're going!
- [ ] Grab your phone, clip in, and head out.