Sheldon our lead mechanic wrote up this handy post about prepping your tools / gear for Dirty Kanza. Thinking through possible mechanical issues ahead of time can be the difference between a 10 minute pause and a DNF. Take a look at this list and take that time to think ahead and get dialed!
Dirty Kanza EDC
One of the most common questions I get about Dirty Kanza is “What do you carry?” With me rolling into my seventh year, I’ve learned a thing or two about what to bring with me on bike. A lot of what I pack is because I have needed it at some point, or I have seen it happen to someone. With us having nearly a hundred mile section of no support in 2019 being prepared can make or break your DK experience. This isn’t a foolproof list and I recommend tailoring it to your needs. This is a good starting point for most people though.
Multi Tool- A good multi tool is a must have. It needs to have a few key tools. A tool for all of the crucial bolts of the bike(stem, derailleur adjustment screws, derailleur hanger, pedals, cleat bolts, bottle cage bolts, etc), and a chain tool.
Tire lever- It’s hard to beat a strong tire lever like the pedros levers. Carry one or two of them. Know how many you need to get your tire off incase of a flat.
Pump and C02- Carry a pump and Co2 or just a pump. Do not just carry Co2. It has happened to me multiple times every year where people are walking their bike begging for Co2 because they ran out, and let’s be honest, no one wants to give out their Co2.
Pro Tip- Wrap duct tape around the pump handle. You never know when you might need it. (Photos from Croatan)
Tubes- Carry more than one. I tend to carry 3-4 on my bike. I like to wrap them in plastic wrap, This keeps them from the elements and random rubbing that tubes tend to get. Carry them and hope you don’t need to use them.
Flat repair- There is a ton of different plug kits on the market. Dyna Plug seems to work the best. What ever you choose to carry, make sure to bring extra plugs, and most importantly know how to use it. I like to keep my plug in an easy to grab place on the stem. You don’t want to mess with your seat bag while sealant is spraying everywhere.
A tire boot is also a must carry in my opinion. In a pinch you can use an old wrapper from some food or even a dollar bill. I also carry a valve core. Easy to replace if one of the heads bend or snap.
Derailleur hanger- Remember the legendary mud year at Dirty Kanza? Three miles into the race and it was complete chaos. Having a hanger and knowing how to install it would of kept a lot of riders going. Instead they were done at mile three. Bring a one or two with you. It’s a small price to pay if one breaks.
Stop into your LBS and have them show you how to convert your bike into a single speed. That little piece of knowledge can get you across that finish line.
Chain and links- I always carry a small section of chain and some links. I have snapped a chain on a climb in the middle of nowhere, I put a link and small section of chain in my bag last minute and it paid off big time!
Cleat bolts- This is a pretty random thing to carry I know. But during my adventure racing years I have lost cleat bolts. They are in my seat pack all the time now.
Take this list and make it yours. Most importantly know how you use everything you bring. You don’t want to be that person on the side of the road asking someone for help or spare parts!
If you need a TD3 derailleur hanger we sell them here:
https://www.rodeo-labs.com/shop/build-components/traildonkey-3-0-derailleur-hanger/
The TD3 uses a 10mm bolt to secure the hanger. YOU NEED A 10MM TOOL to replace one on the go.
If you need a TD2.X derailleur hanger we sell them here
If you need a Flaanimal 1, 2, 3, or 4.X derailleur hanger we sell them.
Have a safe Dirty Kanza and if you see us say hi at the start, out on the course, or at the finish line!
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