We’re now on the countdown to the Karioi Classic, so it’s time to tick some boxes and ensure everything is lined up for the best possible time while circumnavigating the Maunga.

Anyone who has been training seriously probably has a tapering plan leading up to the big day, but for those who aren’t quite sure, it’s easy to panic and cram some rides into the last few days. However, these last-minute rides are unlikely to make much difference to event day. Unless you know what you’re doing, it’s probably better to put the legs up and chill, saving energy and mental motivation for Sunday’s ride.

Bike Preparation
Ensure your prep and training don’t go to waste by making sure your bike is up to the task. If you know what you’re looking at, give your bike an once-over, checking brake pads, brake and gear cables (if you have them) and giving the drivetrain a thorough inspection, not only for a clean and lube but to check the chain is going to last the distance.

If your bike has been parked away for some time and you’re not too familiar with its intricacies, it’s a great idea to take it to your local bike shop for some attention. If you’re within reach of Raglan, then be sure to go and chat with Dirk at the Cyclery Raglan to get everything in order.

Essential Tools and Spares
Assuming your bike is in good working order, make sure you’ve got everything you need to fix it should the worst happen out on the course. The most likely scenario is a flat tyre (or two!). At the very least, a spare tube or two and a pump or CO2 cartridge should get you home.

If you’re running tubeless tyres (tyres without inner tubes that use sealant to prevent punctures), don’t forget to check your sealant levels and pack tyre plugs. Adding a tyre boot of some sort to your kit is a good idea, covering larger holes or a slashed sidewall and getting you home with a replacement tube fitted.

A chain tool and spare chain link (essential for repairing broken or damaged chains) are worthy additions, too, in case of a damaged or broken chain. Don’t forget a multi-tool; chances are you won’t need it, but if something just doesn’t feel right on the bike and needs adjustment, you’ll be glad you have it.

All the gear and no idea? Needless to say, it’s all well and good having tools and spare parts, but if you don’t know how to use them, you may as well leave them at home. Some practice of changing a tyre or using tyre plugs goes a long way.

Fuelling Strategy
Fuelling can be the difference between a great day out, powering home to the finish, and an “I’ve left it all out there and I’m cooked” creep home. If you’re an experienced rider, then you’ve likely learned the hard way and now have a plan for fuelling your adventure.

If you’re new to the game, or this is one of the bigger rides you’ve undertaken, here are some tips: Eat a substantial breakfast three hours before you start riding, think porridge with honey and berries or similar, followed by some jam toast. Once you’re on the bike, drink and eat often, aiming to consume two items every hour. These could be muesli bars, handfuls of lollies, or bananas. It’s best to eat more than you think you need, without going overboard.

Depending on how warm it is (it probably won’t be!), you’ll want to aim for 600-750ml of drink per hour. Hydration is very individual, so if you’re unsure how much you’ll need, then just drink to thirst, but ensure you begin the ride with ample liquid onboard. For bonus points, add some electrolyte mix to your bottle.

There will be two drink stations out on the course with electrolytes available, so you should be able to top up bottles at these. One will be around the 30km mark on the long course (by Aotea Harbour), and one just after the Ruapuke Hill climb.

If you’re after specific pre-packaged sports nutrition, The Cyclery Raglan will be open on Saturday to pick up any last-minute supplies you may need. Event day is not the time to try something new, so be sure to stick to familiar foods or nutrition products that you know work well for you. Nothing would spoil your day more than needing to dash into the bush on the roadside!

Fill your bottles, pump your tyres, do a fine-weather dance, and we’ll see you on the 27th July!