There are many “philosophies” here. Some people like to go light (“what can I get away with?”). Some people like to have every eventuality covered (“sure I have a spare bottom bracket, it’s going to cost you”). In general it is a case of personal risk management, you will have to weigh up many factors.
- How long is the ride?
- How important is the ride to you? (is it the last PBP qualifier?)
- What are the conditions going to be like? (are you in Tassie or FNQ?)
- What condition is your bike in? (how thin is the tread on those tyres?)
Clothing
If it is a long ride (into/over-night) you will need reflective vest, lights (see Safety Recommendations) plus potentially warm weather gear, arm/leg-warmers, rain/wind-proof, gloves, clear glasses. Met-Eye is a very useful resource from the Bureau of Meteorology for accurately predicting overnight conditions.
Stuff
A power pack for recharging your phone/GPS. Spare lights, batteries.
Tools
A typical minimum set of tools may include:
- two spare tubes
- tube repair kit (glue and patches)
- tyre levers
- pump
- multi-tool with a chain breaker
- spare chain link
Additional tools to consider include:
- a tyre boot (or use a $5 note)
- spare spokes or a fibre spoke
- a spare (foldable) tyre
- spare brake and gear cables
- spare brake pads
- spare rear derailleur hanger
- wrap some electrical or gorilla tape around your pump
- cable ties
Food
Gels, figs, banana bread, peanut butter & honey sandwiches? yes, yes, yes and yes. Audax is all about eating. If there is an issue with water or the distance between bakeries on a ride, the RO will likely have pointed this out and you would be wise to take notice. Sometimes in hot weather, two bidons are not enough.
Brevet
Don’t forget your brevet. A zip-lock bag and a pen also can be useful.