Luckily, there are a few items more common to other endurance sports that can be used by cyclists to transport gear without the hassle. Check out these five items that should help you cycle as far as you want to go.
Reverse Gear Jersey
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A typical cycling jersey has three pockets on the lower back. On a really long ride, you may need more jersey storage to accommodate clothing and fuel. One solution is to wear two jerseys—one of which is recumbent style with the pockets in the front. This jersey can provide easy access to fuel, electrolyte tablets and cell phone. Your other jersey—typically worn on the outside with a long zipper in the front—can be used to access the front recumbent jersey pockets and to store clothing in the three rear pockets.
Top Tube Bike Bag
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Top tube storage bags are frequently seen at triathlon races. Road racers and mountain bikers that want easy access to food can use these storage bags. The bags come in a variety of styles with top-open access designs.
Ultimate Direction Wink
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Hydration packs with front access pockets are common in the ultra-running community. This pack from Ultimate Direction has two zippered pockets attached to the pack straps along with two mesh pockets. Accessing these pockets on a long mountain bike ride is more convenient than trying to access the interior of a hydration pack.
Rear Mount Cage
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There are occasions when long-distance road riders want to carry four water bottles. Rear-mount or seat-mount water bottle cages, which are commonly used in triathlon, can solve the four-bottle problem. The cages come in a variety of styles and price ranges. Most of them mount to either the seat post or saddle rails.
Fuel Belt Race Pack
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Overstuffing your pockets can cause a tear in the jersey and can make it difficult to wear a slim-fitting rain jacket. Accessing a cell phone, ID and cash might also require a complete unpacking of jersey pockets. To get more longevity out of your jersey and be a bit more comfortable on the bike, a small waist pack like this one made by Fuel Belt might be exactly what you need. Designed for use in triathlon, this particular design has loops to store gels.
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