If you have a mountain biker in your life, you might be wondering what to get them for a special occasion or holiday.
The problem is, mountain biking gifts aren't cheap... and mountain bikers tend to be really 'picky' in the gear they like to use and the style of it. So it can be very difficult to get a mountain biker a gift.
In this post I will try to cover gift ideas, that will make pretty much any mountain biker happy!
Here are 15 gift ideas that any mountain biker would love:
Multi-Tool
A compact multi-tool is a handy accessory for any mountain biker. It can help fix a flat tire, adjust brakes, and tighten loose bolts. And multi-tools are constantly getting lost so there is a good change that your mountain biker needs one, or will need one! Some of the best options include:
Crank Brothers M19: This 17-function tool includes a chain tool, spoke wrenches, and a bottle opener, all in a lightweight package, high quality package. This is the tool I use to pack, and reassemble when travelling, and take with me on the trail. At roughly $35 its hardly breaking the bank, and is one of the best things I own. >>> Buy it on Amazon.
Water Filter
This gift is a great for anyone that goes riding 'in the forest' where there is moderately clean moving water. Do not get this for someone that frequently rides urban trail systems where the water is likely contaminated beyond the point of what a filter can handle or in desert where there is no water.
Katadyn BeFree 1.0L Water Filter: I use one of these regularly and love it because I can carry no water with me on my rides and subsequently avoid the weight that comes with it. It's also noice and small; when not in use it fits i the back pocket of my jersey. >>> Buy it on Amazon.
Bike Repair Stand
A bike repair stand is a useful tool for any serious mountain biker. It can hold the bike steady while making repairs, adjustments, and maintenance.
Park Tool PCS-9.2: This stand is made with a lightweight aluminum and foldable design for easy storage.
Bike Chain Cleaning Kit
A bike chain cleaning kit can help a mountain biker maintain their bike's drivetrain and extend the lifespan of their chain and cassette. This is a cool one because its something a lot of mountain bikers like, but just never make it a priority to buy. Look for a kit that includes a cleaning solvent, brushes, and a chain keeper. Some of the best options include:
Park Tool CM-5.3 Cyclone Chain Scrubber: This kit includes a chain scrubber and a cleaning solvent that can be reused. $30 on Amazon.
Finish Line Pro Chain Cleaner: This kit includes a chain cleaner tool and a degreaser that can remove tough grime and dirt. Also about $30 on Amazon.
Waterproof Seat Covers
Ah this is one that no one really thinks of, but mountain bikers will love.
No secret, mountain biking makes you dirty and sweaty, and then after a ride you hop into the car and saturate the seats with sweat and grime. It's pretty awful. That's why seat covers are valuable.
These ones on Amazon go on and off easily and get the job done. I keep a set in my Tacoma. >>> Buy it on Amazon.
Nutritional Supplements
Pedaling a bike uphill, in dirt can drain the muscles. Aside from diet there are 2 supplements I like to recommend that are good gifts.
Sportlegs. This is a capsule that minimizes the burn you feel during a ride and the soreness after. I'm not one for the science of it, but in my use its very effective. $30-50 on Amazon
Tailwind Recovery Mix. Tailwind Recovery Mix is a post-workout drink designed for endurance athletes, including cyclists, to help them recover after intense exercise. It contains a blend of carbohydrates and proteins to replenish glycogen stores, repair muscles, and reduce inflammation, as well as electrolytes to replace those lost through sweat.
>>> It's a good supplement to have when you're riding on days back to back (like on a trip).
Jacket
A nice riding jacket can make things comfortable win chilly or wet conditions. Riders that live in cooler places will often have a few jackets, however riders that live in a warm climate like the southeast or southern California will often skip on the expense of a good jacket and just 'deal with' the cold and ride miserably if they get caught in a few times of the year. They really don't know what they're missing though and will appreciate a nice jacket.
The Leatt MTB All Mtn 4.0 Jacket (2022) is a highly durable and weather-resistant jacket designed for mountain biking. It is made of a three-layer HydraDri membrane that provides waterproof and breathable protection, has reinforced stitching for added durability, and comes with a range of features such as a removable hood, waterproof zippers, and adjustable cuffs for a customizable fit. It is designed to provide comfort and protection for riders in all weather conditions.
Buy on Jenson ($100 - $250)
>> This is a great all-around jacket by a brand that riders of all disciplines will love.
Tubeless Tire Inflator
This is a really handy gift for someone that travels often does the van life! You see, most mountain bike tires are 'tubeless' which requires a blast of air, usually from a compressor, to install new tires. Problem is, traveling with an air compressor is impractical so when changing ties on the go, you'll often need to stop at shop... unless you have one of these which holds air compressed by an ordinary bicycle tire pump.
The Airshot Tubeless Inflator is a compact and efficient tool designed to help riders set up tubeless tires without the need for a compressor or CO2 cartridges. It features a 1.15-liter capacity air canister that can be pressurized with a regular track pump, and a high-quality valve that allows riders to quickly and easily inflate tubeless tires to their desired pressure. Its compact size makes it easy to carry in a backpack or bike bag, making it a great tool for on-the-go maintenance and repairs.