Pro Pre-Ride Checklist: Don't Let the Little Things Ruin Your Big Day

Written By Curtis Rowe

There is nothing better than crossing that finish line after a massive effort like a Gran Fondo or a Triple Crown. But as you know, it takes a lot of work, training, and careful planning to get there.

Just like being prepared physically, you must be prepared mechanically. Don’t let a small, easily avoidable oversight derail months of training. Use this checklist to get organized the night before so you can roll up to the start line stress-free.

1. Power Up (If it has a battery, charge it!)

  • Modern cycling is highly digital, and a dead battery can end your day before it starts.

    • Electronic Shifting: Check and charge your Di2, AXS, or EPS main batteries and shifter coin cells.

    • Safety & Navigation: Fully charge your front and rear lights, cycling computer (Garmin/Wahoo), and smartwatch.

    • Power Meters & Heart Rate Monitors: Check battery levels in your companion apps and swap them out if they are low.

2. The Rolling Essentials: Tires & Flat Kits

A flat tire on the start line is a preventable nightmare.

  • Tire Pressure: Pump your tires to your desired PSI the night before.

  • The "Save Your Ride" Kit: Always carry a dedicated flat kit. Ensure it contains:

    • A matching spare tube (or tubeless plug kit)

    • Tire levers

    • CO2 inflator (with extra cartridges) or a reliable hand pump

    • A multi-tool for roadside adjustments

3. Pack Your Gear (Don't leave it on the counter)

If it’s part of your daily training routine, you will miss it if it's left behind. Lay these out or pack them in your gear bag the night before:

  • The Absolute Musts: Cycling shoes, helmet, and sunglasses.

  • The Kit: Jersey, bibs, socks, and gloves.

  • Weather Adjustments: Check the morning forecast. Pack arm warmers, a wind vest, or a rain jacket just in case.

  • On-Bike Nutrition: Pre-pack your bottles, hydration mixes, gels, and chews so you aren't scrambling in the kitchen at 5:00 AM.

4. Fix Mechanical Issues Early

The morning of a major event is not the time for a test ride.

  • No Last-Minute Surprises: If your bike is making a weird noise or shifting poorly, address it days in advance.

  • Don't Rely on Event Mechanics: While many big rides have on-site mechanics, they are there for emergency, last-minute tweaks. Complex issues take time to solve and can cause you to miss your start corral.

Most Importantly: Enjoy the Ride!

You’ve done the training, you’ve checked the boxes, and your gear is ready. Once you hit the start line, take a deep breath, soak in the atmosphere, and enjoy every kilometer of the journey ahead.

Curtis Rowe