Attempting my first 40 mile ride.... got any pointers?

[Catrin]

That wouldn't work with my eating schedule. I'd hate to stop every 15 minutes, which is when I eat. Ruby, everyone is different so it might take a few rides or more to figure out what works best for you.

Hydration packs are hot in the summer, but if you freeze them, they are great on your back on a hot, hot day.

Oh my yes, like having an ice cube on the back

I have considered putting loose things like pretzels in a Bento box so I can just reach in from time to time for something salty when I need it. I am more resistant to stopping when I clip in for some odd reason...

Ruby, you are going to have fun working out what works best for your body - in the end that is the most important. Have fun on your long ride and let us know how it goes! I would suggest hydrating well the day before your ride if it is going to be hot.

[rubysoho]

Thanks again for the pointers! I am a bit worried. I went on a slow, easy ride last night to see how my legs felt. Probably the easiest ride since restarting with cycling over a month ago. My legs were so tired by the end!!!! my ride is tomorrow. I am definitely worried.

[Bike Chick]

If you are worried, can you cut it back to 30 miles this week and then do 40 the following week? No need to double your mileage if you aren't confident. It won't be enjoyable if you are in pain the last half of the ride.

Good luck and let us know how it goes.

[ny biker]

Since it's an out-and-back ride on the trail, you can always start with a plan to do 40 miles and then turn around early if necessary. Where are you starting and are you riding east or west?

[rubysoho]

Since it's an out-and-back ride on the trail, you can always start with a plan to do 40 miles and then turn around early if necessary. Where are you starting and are you riding east or west?

We hopped on by hwy 28 and road west.

We ended up going fifty miles in four hours. It was beautiful weather. Took it easy going out but then went for some serious sprints against each other for the last 15 miles. Decided why not go a bit further to make 50 miles. By that point I was pretty tired but still had some energy. Managed to squeak out the miles from my legs. Finished the ride with good conversation over smoothies. Now I am happily exhausted.


Many thanks again for all the advice. I made sure to drink often, etc... I could really tell the difference in energy and strength from previous rides. It helps that I can finally reach the water bottles and drink while cycling.

There was a point I almost wiped out. I was distracted and drifted a bit, overcorrected which made things worse. Somehow I managed to hop off the back of my bike and catch the bike with my right hand so it wouldn't fall.

Looking forward to even more mileage in the future!!!!

[emily_in_nc]

Congratulations! See, you were worried about 40 and here you up and did 50. You rock!

[ny biker]

Great job! Did you go all the way to Purcellville?

I was planning to do a PPTC ride tomorrow but due to the weather forecast I decided to ride the WOD today instead. I did Reston to Purcellville and back, with a couple of on-road detours to add some hills (and variety). Funny how I always manage to find myself on the trail on the weekend they have the big festival in Herndon...anyway I got rained on near Clark's Gap but otherwise the weather was beautiful.

[rubysoho]

Thanks, Emily! It feels good to crack that 50 mile marker.


ny b, I'd love to know what neighborhoods you looped into for the additional hills. I'll be wanting to add those in to increase mileage/difficulty. My friend and I made it to the festival to get the needed mileage to make 50. It was pretty busy!

Managed to take my dogs on a three mile walk this morning. My legs are weak but feeling good!

[roadie gal]

Good job! I'm glad you had a good time.