A no-longer-hypothetical bike run from Pitlochry to Nairn. I expect it to take two and a bit days, I will allow it to take no more than three and a half before running to the nearest train station.
Things I need – after grabbing the knowledge of others.
- A Full Service of my bike one week before leaving.
- Panniers – I have big 30litre waterproof ones.
- Bike Lock
- Rucksack – depending on whether I have filled the panniers with the rest of this list, or not.
- Backup cycling clothes – including one more pair of socks than I think I’ll need. (Yes, I like figurehugging lycra – not flattering, but it’s incredibly comfortable)
- Waterproofs
- Tent
- Sleeping bag
- 2x500ml Water bottles – refill when necessary.
- Food – mostly sugary things for energy. Will stop at pubs and tea-rooms for refreshment.
- Bike tools including puncture repair bits and pieces.
- Replacement inner tubes
- Small Easypack Towel
- First aid Kit
- Midge repellant
- Map
- Compass & ikea pencils (for map)
- Smartphone
- Replacement phone batteries
- Sunscreen
- Spare shoelaces
- Multitool – probably a Leatherman (stuffing it up my arse if a rozzer comes near – Criminal Justice (Scotland) (Consolidation) Act 1996, and all that)
- Cable tidies (for very basic impromptu repairs)
- Ziploc bag (containing cigars and matches, and other tools for making fire)
- Hip-flask, or miniatures (for toasting the Drumochtar pass, or other evil climbs)
- Toilet paper
- £200 in cash (& and change for payphones)
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