5

I am doing a solo, unsupported 2 day charity ride, covering 260 miles in total. I am not taking any panniers or backpack, the only things im taking will fit in my saddlebag and my jersey pockets.

The ride isn't an even split with the first day a mammoth (to me) 170 miles, though relatively flat ~1,700m climbing.

I have ridden 100 miles many times and have fueled myself sufficiently through pre ride eating and gels, snacks and drinks on the ride.

I am also not worried about the post ride nutrition as have done this many times as well.

The thing I am unsure on is this:

170 miles is just under 70 miles further than I have ever ridden in one go.

I know I can go just over 100 miles in about 6 hours without any issues on gels and snacks. I have a brand that I know doesn't cause me any stomach upset eating ~ 3 gels an hour for this time period.

I am estimating 170 miles will take me somewhere between 10 and 12 hours to complete.

Would I be stupid to try to complete this on gels & snacks alone? bearing in mind I'd have to carry somewhere close to 30 gels etc.

Should I try to find a place to stop and eat a proper meal? and if so what type of things should I try to eat?

I would assume carbs, rice or pasta but not too much, would any protein be good too? Fat & bread that sit on the stomach would be a big no no I assume.

I was thinking about 90 miles into the first day so after about 6 hours, this puts me just over half way through the day and the area im looking at is on a big stretch between castles (im visiting 32 castles as the basis for the charity challenge)

Improve this question
1
  • wow it is quite a distance. I have read a lot about turing riders and they take it whit calm riding 8 hours 80-100km per day but it is for longer rides approach. The thing is that you body can hold a limited amount of energy may be lasting for few hours of circling but once it is gone you are have to replenish it and it takes time.
    – kifli
    Commented Jun 7, 2016 at 12:18

1 Answer 1

Reset to default
4

I would look to stop at least twice and take on protein as well as carbs. Try an omelette if you can get one on the road. I would look to take some protein bars as well as energy gels, it will give variety as well as restore what you will blow through in 170 miles.

You are also going to need to stretch, so suggest you plan on a 1-hour middle of ride stop...

Improve this answer
3
  • The one hour stretch would tie in with the lunch break. A good reason to have one anyway. Good call on protein bars hadn't thought of them. Why two stops?
    – Cearon O'Flynn
    Commented Jun 7, 2016 at 13:16
  • Also...tea break...You might want to look at some methylated spirit stoves zenstoves.net/Stoves.htm
    – Aron
    Commented Jun 8, 2016 at 8:39
  • @Aron Cearon wants to ride with only a saddlebag and jersey pockets, and neither of those are going to hold an alcohol stove.
    – David Richerby
    Commented Jun 14, 2018 at 16:27

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge you have read our privacy policy.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.