Preparing for the Tour

The Border Raiders is a noncompetitive tour, designed to be an enjoyable and educational experience. All riders should be properly trained for this event and have a quality bicycle in good working condition. Please consult your local bicycle shop.

All riders must be 18 years old or older. Persons under 18 years of age must be under the direct supervision of an adult during the ride. All riders must have an ANSI, SNELL, or ASTM approved helmet that must be worn at all times while on your bicycle. Most of the route for the Border Raid is rolling hills on paved secondary highways including the Glacier Scenic Byway in Kansas and the Loess Hills Byway in Iowa. These hilly byways can be extremely challenging for cyclists.

While minor repair service and emergency transport will be available, riders should make sure their bicycles are in good working order, their bodies are capable of traveling the required distances, and their gear is ready for inclement weather (the tour goes on regardless of rainy weather).

You should know how to repair a flat tire on your own. Your local bike shop can give you instructions on repairing flats.

This tour is not a race – all ability levels and speeds are welcomed and encouraged to participate. However, it is recommended that riders train as much as possible – both short training rides during the week and longer rides on the weekends. When it comes to getting in condition for the Border Raid, the more miles on your bike the better. A good gauge of the rider’s fitness would be the ability to complete at least a 50-mile ride.

If you train for this ride, you will have the time of your life!

MUST HAVES:

  • Cash (for food/snacks/massages/gifts/etc.)
  • Driver's license (or other form of identification)

RECOMMENDED

  • ATM card/credit card
  • Medical information card
  • Mobile phone (although reception will be limited at times)

FOR YOUR BIKE

  • 2 water bottles or a hydration pack
  • Cyclocomputer
  • Mini air pump
  • Seat bag for tools
  • Spare tube, patch kit, and tire irons
  • Spare tire
  • Toilet paper

CYCLING CLOTHING

  • 2-3 pairs of bike shorts
  • 2-3 jerseys/tops
  • 2-3 pairs of socks
  • ANSI, SNELL, or ASTM approved helmet
  • Biking shoes
  • Gloves
  • Rain gear
  • Sunglasses
  • Sweatband/headband
  • Tights and jacket or other cool weather gear

EVENING CLOTHING

  • 1 pair jeans/pants
  • 1 sweatshirt/light jacket
  • 1-2 pairs of shorts
  • 2-3 t-shirts/casual shirts
  • 3 pairs of underwear
  • 3 pairs of socks
  • Street shoes/casual shoes

OTHER GEAR

  • Air mattress/sleeping pad
  • Bag balm/butt butter
  • Book/magazine
  • Camera & film/memory card
  • Camping gear
  • Earplugs
  • Flashlight
  • First Aid kit
  • Insect repellent
  • Journal
  • Lip balm/chapstick
  • Mini book light
  • Sleeping bag/blanket
  • Sunblock
  • Swimsuit
  • Toiletries (soap, shampoo, toothpaste, etc.)
  • Towel & washcloth