Preparation

We encourage you to set aside time for training and conditioning.  The more you train, the more you will be able to enjoy the Tour.  Strive for the ability to ride a 25 to 30 mile ride comfortably prior to riding Bike The Border.  Discuss your training goals with a doctor and start training as soon as possible!

In addition to proper training, keep the following in mind: Take the time you need when riding to get off your bike, stretch, rest from time to time, and most of all, Enjoy yourself!  This is not a competitive event.  It is a recreational ride, not a race.  By having a positive attitude, a good level of fitness, and the willingness to accept a few aches and pains, you will do just fine.

  • Mount a water bottle cage and carry a bottle of water on your bicycle.  Always beware of dehydration!

  • Ensure that your bicycle can go the distance mechanically.  Even though our EXPERT mechanic will be available and make repairs as quickly as possible, a broken chain, broken cable, or seized bearing can impede your enjoyment and travel progress.  Please perform preventative maintenance or have your bicycle inspected and/or tuned by a mechanic to augment your enjoyment potential.

Suggested / Recommended / Optional Items to bring:

  • PHOTO ID and PROOF of US CITIZENSHIP

(REQUIRED TO RE-ENTER THE US FROM CANADA)

  •  PLEASE PUT YOUR NAME AND ADDRESS ON EVERYTHING YOU BRING!

Cost of meals and snacks are not included in the tour registration fee.   Please bring sufficient money to pay for your meals, rest stop refreshments, bicycle parts and/or repairs, souvenirs, and personal items.

Except for very severe weather, BIKE THE BORDER will proceed on schedule.  During the tour’s time of year, the weather and temperatures can vary greatly so please pack accordingly.  

CLOTHING (waterproof bags suggested)

  • HELMET (REQUIRED)
  • Cycling Jersey
  • Cycling Gloves
  • T-Shirts
  • Shorts (Cycling and Off Cycles)
  • Jacket (Rain/Water Resistant)
  • Helmet Cover
  • Pants or Leg Warmers
  • Ankle Strap
  • Socks and Underwear
  • Shoes (Cycling and Off Cycle)
  • Shower Footwear
  • Swimsuit
  • Sleepwear

CAMPING (Waterproof bags suggested)

  • Tent
  • Duffel Bags (Max 2 per rider)
  • Sleeping Bags
  • Pad (Sleeping Bag)
  • Ground Cloth
  • Rope
  • Flashlight or Electric (Battery) Lantern
  • Extra Stakes

TOILETRIES  (Waterproof bags suggested)

  • Towel
  • Washcloth
  • Soap
  • Toothbrush
  • Toothpaste
  • Skin/Hand Lotion
  • Shampoo
  • Shaving Items
  • Nail Clippers
  • Tweezers
  • Brush/Comb
  • Deodorant
  • Mirror
  • Toilet Paper
  • Facial Tissues
  • Hand Sanitizer
  • Wet Ones/Wet Wipes

PERSONAL/FIRST AID  (Waterproof bags suggested)

  • Sunglasses
  • Extra Eyeglasses or Contact Lenses
  • Copies of Prescriptions
  • Heart Rate Monitor
  • Aspirin
  • Allergy Medication (As Instructed/Directed by Physician)
  • Vitamins
  • Special Medicines
  • Adhesive Bandages
  • First Aid Cream
  • Chamois Balm
  • Hydrogen Peroxide  (Small Squeeze Bottle)
  • Insect Repellant
  • Lip Balm
  • Sun Block Lotion
  • Safety Pins
  • Elastic Wrap
  • Feminine Hygiene Items
  • Disposable Bags

BICYCLE

  • Small Repair/Tool Kit
  • Patch Kit or Spare Tube
  • Lock and Cable (PLEASE USE IT)
  • Rear View Mirror
  • Tire Pump
  • Water Bottles
  • Plastic Seat Cover
  • Cycle Computer and Waterproof Cover
  • Bick Rack/Stand
  • Any Special Tool or Part Unique to Your Bicycle

MISCELLANEOUS  (Waterproof bags suggested)

  • Cell Phone
  • Journal/Paper
  • Pens/Pencils
  • Camera/Film
  • Watch
  • Ear Plugs
  • Travelers Checks
  • Credit Cards
  • Stamps
  • Address Book
  • Scouting Knife
  • Rain Protection
  • Zip Lock Bags
  • Battery Operated Alarm Clock

This list is not all-inclusive and most of these items are not mandatory.  This is just to help you plan your journey and have some luxuries while living on the tour.

 

Bike The Border
PO Box 514
Mohall, ND 58761-0514
E-Mail:  biketheborder@yahoo.com
701-756-6298