GPS and lighting: essential for mountain bike touring
Electronics, lighting and navigation for bike touring
Navigation is an integral part of bike touring. On a road bike, and even more so on a gravel one, knowing how to find your way around and read a map is an essential prerequisite for making the most of your adventure.
Whether you're off for a day or several weeks, having the right electronic equipment can make all the difference in terms of safety, comfort and enjoyment.
We guide you in choosing the best tested and approved equipment for your mountain itineraries.
Practical tips for your electronic equipment
Preparing GPX tracks
Before you set off, check that all your GPX tracks are loaded onto your GPS. Test the operation of your device to familiarize yourself with its use.
Battery management
Pack spare batteries or an external battery for your electronic devices. In the mountains, cold temperatures can reduce battery life.
Weather protection
Protect your electronic devices from rain and moisture with waterproof covers. Some GPS models and phones are waterproof, but extra protection is always useful.
Emergency lighting
Always carry emergency lighting, even for daytime outings. A headlamp can be very useful for repairs or moving around the bivouac.
GPS Meters: Your Travel Guide
A good GPS meter is essential for tracking your route, measuring your performance and discovering new paths. Here's our selection of the best models suitable for roaming.
Garmin - GPS Meters
Garmin is a leader in the GPS meter market. Their devices offer precise navigation, detailed maps and excellent battery life, perfect for long journeys.
Bryton - GPS meters
Bryton offers high-performance GPS meters at competitive prices. Their devices are appreciated for their ease of use and good autonomy.
TwoNav - GPS counters
TwoNav is distinguished by its integration of IGN TOP25 maps, making them an ideal choice for gravel and off-road riding. Their devices are rugged and offer excellent accuracy.
Lighting: Visibility and safety
On winding and sometimes narrow mountain roads, visibility is essential. Good bike lighting is a guarantee of safety, especially when riding early in the morning or late at night.
Please make sure your equipment complies with the new regulations in force:
Garmin Varia - Rear lighting
The Garmin Varia is the benchmark for intelligent rear lighting. It combines a powerful light with radar that detects vehicles approaching from behind, offering optimum safety.
Zefal - Lighting duo pack
Zefal, French equipment manufacturer, offers competitively priced front/rear packs. These lights offer good value for money and are perfect for cyclists looking for a complete, economical solution.
Petzl - Frontales Headlamps
Petzl headlamps are ideal for bivouacs or night repairs. Lightweight and powerful, they offer excellent autonomy and even illumination.
Electronic accessories: To complete your equipment
Some additional accessories that can prove very useful when you're out and about.
Quadlock - Phone holder
The Quadlock system allows you to securely hang your phone on your handlebars. Robust and easy to use, it's ideal for tracking your route or using navigation apps.
Ecoflow - External battery
Leader in the mobile battery market, Ecoflow offers lightweight, compact and powerful products, perfect for recharging all your electronic devices on the go.
Ready for adventure?
You now have all the information you need to choose the perfect electronics, lighting and navigation equipment for your mountain bike itinerary.
If you have any questions or need personalized advice on choosing your equipment, please don't hesitate to contact us. We'll be delighted to help you prepare for your next adventure!