La Route des Grandes Alpes Kit List and Equipment Needed

🏔️ La Route des Grandes Alpes Kit List and Equipment Needed

La Route des Grandes Alpes is one of the most breathtaking and iconic cycling challenges in the world. Stretching over 700km from Lake Geneva to the Mediterranean, it threads together some of the most legendary climbs in the Alps — Col du Galibier, Col d’Izoard, Col de la Bonette, and more.

Whether you’re riding it over 5, 7 or even 10 days, preparation is everything. This guide covers the essential gear you’ll need to complete the route comfortably and safely, with product links to help you build your setup.

🏆 Why Ride La Route des Grandes Alpes?

• Elevation: Over 17,000m of climbing

• Famous Riders: Used in many Tour de France editions. Amateur and pro cyclists alike use the route for training and challenge.

• Time to Complete: Most cyclists take between 6–10 days, depending on fitness and style (supported vs self-supported).

🎒 Essential Kit List

🚴 Road Bike: Lightweight & Climb-Ready

Opt for a carbon or lightweight alloy bike with compact gearing.

• Canyon Endurace AL or CF – endurance geometry for long days

• Schwalbe Marathon Tyres or Vitttoria Randonneur – legendary puncture protection

• Shimano 105 or SRAM Rival groupsets – ideal for Alpine gradients

🧰 Tools & Spares

• Topeak Alien II Multi Tool – 26 tools in one

• Mini Pump + CO2 Inflator Kit – keep it compact

• 2x Inner Tubes (or tubeless repair kit)

• Chain quick link and tyre levers

👕 Clothing (for Variable Alpine Weather)

• Castelli Perfetto RoS Jacket – windproof and water-resistant

• Merino base layers – warm yet breathable

• Danish Endurance Bib shorts with extra padding for multi-day comfort

• Grib Grap Cycling gloves with 6mm padding for grip and comfort all day in the saddle.

• Arm and leg warmers + gilet for layering

🛏️ Bikepacking Gear (if self-supported)

• Topeak Water proof saddle bag – 10L+ capacity

• Rockbros Frame bag for tools/snacks

• Lifesystems Lightweight sleeping bag(if bivvying)

📱 Navigation & Data

• Garmin Edge 840 or Wahoo Roam – for dependable route guidance and climb tracking

• Quad Lock or SP Connect mount – if using a smartphone or secure mounting

• Power bank – for charging on the go

🚰 Nutrition & Hydration

• 2x 750ml bottles + bottle cages

• Electrolyte tabs or drink mix

• Cliff Energy bars and High 5 Energy gels

🔍 Pro Tips

• Train for Long Climbs: Simulate long efforts — 45 mins+ on moderate gradients.

• Descend Confidently: Alpine descents can be technical and fast. Practice braking techniques.

• Book Ahead: Summer is popular. Accommodation fills fast in Alpine towns.

• Track Progress: Upload your ride to Strava to keep a digital memory.

🛒 Amazon Gear Checklist

• ✅ Multi-tool with chain breaker

• ✅ Alpine-ready jacket

• ✅ Top bike computer for climbing

• ✅ Saddle bags for self-supported trips

Ready to ride one of cycling’s greatest routes? Get your gear dialled in and enjoy a challenge that will test your legs and reward your soul with unforgettable scenery.