What are my must haves?

Flat repair kit (2 tubes, CO2, chuck, boot, one lever which are neatly bound by electrical tape) which I can shove in my middle pocket

ipod

gels (if it's a 3+ hour ride)

2 bottles

Showers Pass Protech shell (if it's cold and looking like rain) which I shove under my jersey when I'm not wearing it, though it could fit in a pocket if I have a free one.


I get by without a seat bag on most of my rides. If I ride in the mountains, I throw it on the bike because it leaves an extra pocket for additional gels.