Today, I head to Japan to ride 1000km across the country over 8 days—from Kanazawa at the base of the Noto Peninsula, up, around, and across to Shimoda at the southern tip of the Izu Peninsula. With endless coastal and mountain scenery, views of Mt. Fuji, and onsens every night on the cards, I am beyond excited. Below you will find the basic gear I am taking with me. Stay tuned for regular updates from the trip.
1. Thule RoundTrip Transition: I never had much luck with rental bikes, so for this trip, I am bringing my own. To ensure my beloved Diamondback Podium Optum makes it safely to Japan, I have packed her up in this bomber Thule bike case.
2. Garmin Edge 1000: While we will have someone to transport our luggage to the next stop each night, the ride is generally self-guided. With the Edge 1000’s turn by turn navigation, we don’t have to worry about getting lost in an unfamiliar country.
3. Sunglasses: I expect to encounter a huge variety of conditions, so photochromic lenses are the best bet.
4. Helmet and Rapha Cap: The helmet is obvious but it’s all about the cool caps you wear beneath.
5. Pearl Izumi Race Road III: With a precision Boa closure system, these performance oriented cycling shoes offer all day comfort—important as we are going to be riding 100+ miles per day.
6. Apparel: I brought a mix of jerseys, base layers, gloves, shorts, and 3/4 length tights from Pearl Izumi, as well as a pair of bibs from Velocio.
7. Socks from Machine Cycles: Everyone knows that socks make the kit. #sockdoping.
8. Rain Jacket: As it is fall, I expect to be hit with some rain while riding across Japan.
9. Sunscreen:
10. Osprey Raven 6: I know it’s not exactly aero but much like my California Coast Ride last year, I want someplace to store plenty of snacks, money, tools, and extra layers for sitting on the bike all day.