Raf's Munga Gear Recommendations

To participate in the Munga bike race, you'll need to be prepared for some tough cycling conditions. Here are some gear recommendations that will help you stay safe and comfortable while cycling through the Karoo.

Shoes

During train and during the event wear cycling shoes that are slightly bigger. A slightly bigger cycling shoe made with breathable materials so that air flows freely so that your feet stay cool, and flexible soles so that you can wear it all day long without feeling uncomfortable or restricted is highly recommended.

I raced the Munga in a pair of Bonts, stiff carbon sole mountain bike shoes - I trained and raced in them for many years, had the cleats set correctly for me, didn't do much walking during the Munga but what made them uncomfortable is that the fit was snug. In terms of foot length, they just about fitted my feet. Trust me, you definitely want to wear cycling shoes that are a little too big, around half bigger a size is good.

Wider Platform Pedals

Wider platform pedals are not essential, but can offer several benefits for ultra-distance cycling.

Increased comfort - the larger surface area helps distribute pressure more evenly across your foot, reducing hotspots and discomfort during long rides.
Better stability - a wider platform provides a more stable base, which can be particularly beneficial when riding over rough terrain or when your legs start to fatigue.
Improved power transfer - with a larger contact area, you can apply power more efficiently throughout the pedal stroke, which is crucial for maintaining a steady pace over long distances.
Versatility - wider pedals often accommodate a variety of footwear, including more comfortable, casual shoes that might be preferable for ultra-distance events.
Reduced foot fatigue - by supporting more of your foot, wider pedals can help reduce fatigue and strain on your feet, allowing you to ride longer with less discomfort.

Aero Bars

Adjustable aero bars are not for speed but for the extra comfort they offer.

Height - getting the appropriate setting will allow you to maintain a good hip angle and decrease the overall reach, resulting in a more comfortable riding position. If supplied, use the riser kit that came with aero bars, or rotate the stem or add headset spacers (if the steerer tube is long enough) to raise the handlebar. You might need to bring your aero bars closer to your saddle using elbow/fore-arm rest/pad adjustment to optimize comfort.
Extension bars - the more angled ones are most comfortable.
Elbow/fore-arm pad thickness should be 20 mm or more.

Adjust the aero bars to suit your current riding position...

If you have to shift forward on the saddle then aero bar reach is too far. Shift the elbow/fore-arm rest/pads back and or fit a shorter stem.
If you have to keep lifting your head then the aero bars are too low. Raise the elbow/fore-arm rest/pads and or stem..., rotate the stem or add headset spacers
If you feeling discomfort in the shoulder then aero bar elbow/fore-arm rests/pads position is too narrow. Space them far apart, as close as possible to your shoulder width.

Bike Lights

Bike lights with a wide beam are essential for night riding and can illuminate a larger area. They help you see ahead and make you visible to other.

Dynamo hub and light are ideal but more costly.
Or a rechargeable light (my personal choice) with a 1600 mAh battery and a compact-sized 20000-30000 mAh power bank.

Hydration

It's no secret that staying hydrated is essential for both your physical and mental health. Not getting enough water can lead to a variety of health problems, including fatigue, headaches, muscle cramps, and even dehydration- which can lead to hypoglycemia, kidney problems, and even death.

You can easily fit the minimum requirement of 2.5 litres on the bike, using 500/750 ml and two 1000 ml bottles and bottle cage adaptors. Or use a minimalist hydration backpack if you need more. You will need to train with hydration backpack to get accustomed to the "feel" of carrying additional weight on your upper body.

Bike Packing Bags

A bike packing bag is a bag that attaches to your bike frame, providing extra storage space for your gear. Frame bags come in different sizes and shapes, depending on your bike model and your packing needs. Big or small, your bags will always be full. If you prefer not to carry a lot, then get smaller bags.

The top tube and handlebar barrel bag for nutrition and anything you need quickly - toolkit, medication and phone, power banks, cables, emergency blanket, and lightweight clothing.
Medium-sized seat bag for warmer clothing and other Munga essentials.

Clothing

Warm clothes are essential for keeping you warm when temperatures drop during the ride. Select clothes that are moisture-wicking and breathable to keep you comfortable and dry.

Cycling gloves are a must if you want to avoid getting blisters on your hands. They will also protect your hands from dirt, rocks and branches that may hit them while cycling.

Start with your shoes, then the lights, then hydration and then look at the bags. Your equipment doesn't have to be the highest-end equipment, something less fancy or complicated is often better.

As always, all the kit you use should be tried and tested, you should never take new kit on an event - this rule is especially true for shoes.

That is it. Thank you for reading. I hope you found it to be a useful resource. Questions, comments and high fives! Drop them here.