Disclaimer
This article is a practical summary of the Race Across Series rules for gear preparation.
It does not replace the official regulations, which always prevail in case of discrepancy.
Official source: Race Across Series Regulations
Link to the Race Across Series regulations summary article - GRAAALPS 2026 :
Regulations Race Across Series - GRAAALPS 2026.
1. What is officially mandatory
The regulations define two levels of mandatory gear:
- Safety Pack: mandatory for all formats
- Comfort Pack: mandatory on long-distance formats (notably 1000 km and 2500 km)
1.1 Safety Pack (mandatory for everyone)
- Certified helmet
- Front light
- Headlamp
- Two rear lights
- GPS with official route
- High-visibility vest
- Reflective strips (fork + seat stays)
- Two survival blankets
- Whistle
- Water reserve (minimum 1 L)
- Phone with PGO number
- Repair kit
- Combination lock
- Waste pouch
- Reusable cup
1.2 Comfort Pack (mandatory on long formats)
- Insulating jacket (padded type)
- Leg warmers or long bib shorts
- Gloves
- Waterproof jacket
- Bivy bag
1.3 Penalties when gear is missing
- Missing Safety Pack item: disqualification risk
- Missing Comfort Pack item: time penalty (as per regulations)
- On-course checks: checks can happen at start, at Life Bases, and unannounced on route
2. Recommended gear (not mandatory, but strongly advised)
This section is practical guidance. It complements the official rules but does not replace them.
2.1 Visibility and power
- Power bank + spare cable(s)
- Secondary light mount or spare light
- Compatible spare batteries for lights
- Compact multi-port wall charger
2.2 Navigation and communication
- Main GPS + backup solution (smartphone with offline route)
- GPX route tested before race day
- Bank card + small cash reserve
- Emergency contacts card (paper + phone)
2.3 Mechanics and autonomy
- At least 2 spare inner tubes (or full tubeless repair kit)
- Chain tool + compatible quick link
- Spare derailleur hanger
- Mini pump + CO2 cartridges (if you use them)
- Multi-tool with compact torque option if possible
2.4 Weather and thermal comfort
- Liner gloves or rain gloves depending on forecast
- Neck warmer / thin cap
- Spare socks
- Chamois cream + mini first-aid kit
3. Quick pre-start checklist
- All Safety Pack items are present and accessible
- All Comfort Pack items required for my distance are packed
- Lights tested (full-night autonomy)
- GPS + phone charged and routes validated
- Repair kit complete and tested
- Nutrition plan + weather plan prepared
4. Practical prep tips
- Prepare the bike 48 hours before start time
- Run a night test ride with real event setup
- Simulate an equipment check with your checklist
- Split critical items across different pockets/bags
5. Important reminder
Rules may evolve depending on the season, event, and local organization.
Before race day, always check the latest official version: raceacrossseries.com/reglement