The Sea Otter Classic is a world-renowned mountain bike festival held annually in Monterey, California and I hope I get to meet as many of my readers as possible while I and some of the rest of the shop are there discussing our favorite sport.

But since this is the most significant mountain bike event in the world, the Sea Otter Classic attracts thousands of cycling enthusiasts, amateur and professional racers, and bike industry insiders, so I have some talking to do with my sales reps. If you're planning to attend this fantastic event, here's a comprehensive guide on what to bring and how to prepare for the Sea Otter Classic in Monterey, California.

What to bring:

1. Mountain Bike: Pictured is one of our Pivot Switchblades, but the Sea Otter Classic is a celebration of all things mountain biking, so you'll definitely need a bike if you plan on participating in the races or taking advantage of the festival's many biking opportunities. The riding in Monterey is too good to pass up, so you can bring your own bike or rent one from a local bike shop in Monterey
2. Protective Gear: A full face helmet is required to race, but pads are highly encouraged. Safety should always be your top priority when mountain biking. Make sure you have a properly fitting helmet, knee and elbow pads, and gloves. Also, bring comfortable shoes that have good traction and support.
3. Clothing: Monterey's weather can be unpredictable, so it's best to bring layers. You might need a jacket or rain gear for the morning or evening, and comfortable, breathable clothing for when the sun is out. Don't forget to pack some comfortable clothes for after the ride too.
4. Water and Snacks: Staying hydrated is critical when participating in any outdoor activity. Make sure you bring plenty of water and snacks to keep your energy up throughout the day. You can also purchase food and drinks at the festival's food court.
5. Cash and Credit Cards: While the Sea Otter Classic is a family-friendly event, it's also a major shopping opportunity for bike enthusiasts. Many vendors will be selling the latest biking gear and equipment, so make sure to bring cash and credit cards to make any purchases.
6. Sunscreen and Sunglasses: The festival takes place in a beautiful outdoor setting, so make sure to protect your skin and eyes from the sun's harmful rays.
7. Phone and Camera: You'll want to capture all the excitement and memories of the festival. Don't forget to bring your phone or camera to snap photos and videos of your experience.

How to Prepare:

1. Train: If you plan to participate in the races or rides, it's important to train before the event. Start with shorter rides and gradually increase the distance and intensity. Even though downhill is all downhill (duh), you want to be in good shape to post a good time. Especially having ridden the DH course before, its a pedally one for sure. Other than downhill, enduro, XC, road, and gravel will require increasing levels of fitness so take on the challenge like Rocky Balboa and get to training.
2. Plan Your Schedule: The Sea Otter Classic is jam-packed with events, so plan your schedule ahead of time. Make sure to prioritize the races and activities you want to participate in and plan your meals and breaks accordingly.
3. Book Accommodations Early: The Sea Otter Classic attracts thousands of people, so make sure to book your accommodations early. There are many hotels and campgrounds in the Monterey area, but they fill up quickly, especially during the festival.
4. Familiarize Yourself with the Courses: If you plan to participate in the races or rides, familiarize yourself with the courses. Study the maps and elevation profiles to prepare yourself for any challenging sections.
5. Check Your Equipment: Before heading to the festival, make sure your bike and equipment are in good working order. Take your bike for a tune-up and check the brakes, tires, and chain to ensure they're all in top condition.

In conclusion, the Sea Otter Classic is an exciting event for mountain biking enthusiasts of all skill levels. If you need more convincing I'll be racing the beginner category, but with the right preparation and equipment, you can have an unforgettable experience at the festival. Don't forget to bring your sense of adventure and a positive attitude, and get ready to have a blast! See you all there this weekend!