The Vätternrundan 2018 : Kit List

Whilst not ideal to be using new kit on an epic long ride, I broke all the rules for long distance riding and trialed some new pieces to really put them to the test whilst riding the Vätternrundan 300km ride in Sweden.

The conditions for our ride on the day of the event were good with no rain forecast, the wind was relatively low with a headwind out and then to drop off anyway (so not much tailwind!). We were riding through the night however but it wasn’t due to be too cold, I opted for jersey and shorts, and then arm warmers and gilet for when it got colder. Luckily no rain jacket and leg warmers required, although after some of the feed stations through the night it got a little chilly. This would be something to consider on colder evenings if riding this event. Below is my kit list as used for the 300km event

 

Liv Langma Advanced Pro 0

I have had the this bike from Rutland Cycling, the Liv Langma DI2 for a week now and it’s really great, so pleased with it and to date this is the best bike I have ridden. Its light and responsive, handles really nicely and also I was as comfortable as you can be when cycling for that length on time. Full review to follow shortly although i’m struggling to find anything I don’t like about it at the moment! Had so many comments about how nice it looked when away in Sweden. Read my review of this bike here…

 

Oakley Flight Jacket – Low Light Lens

 

I always think with kit that performs well, you don’t notice it and I found this to be the case with the Oakley Flight Jacket. I forgot I was even wearing them and the lens performed well in the light conditions, no complaints really. Look forward to adding some a new lens colours to the collection for daytime wearing too as love the new frame shape.

Oakley Aro3 Helmet 2018

I’m a fan of matt black kit, this helmet is in matt black but with the yellow fluro detail at the back. The boa fastening is super easy to adjust, the helmet is lightweight.

Oakley Color Block Road Jersey

 

For long rides or races you need easy to access pockets to get food out quickly and easily. I liked that I could pack so much in there, I also loved the race fit and the slightly longer sleeves on the jerseys.

Women’s Specialized Torch 2.0 Shoes

I posted a review of these before here and now they have truly been put to the test after 300km!

Other essentials: –

Arm warmers

Gilet

Bars (all open for easy access)

Gels

Mini pump (or gas)

Mitts (with good padding)

Two full bottles – filled up at feed stations as we went along.

Garmin edge 520 (all settings turned off and back light turned off, it lasted the whole time but recommend taking a charging unit)

Front and rear lights

 

Lucy Sturgess | Love Velo CC

Rutland Cycling | #teamrutland