ok, you are preparing for a big important ride by cutting calories? am i hearing you right?

what do you suppose is going to come off first? Muscle. work hard and burn it off but do not decrease intake!

Do not confuse dieting with getting fit for a hard ride.
Good luck!

ps i re read your post. Eat better, you'll feel better. you're not a 5 year old; use the discipline you use riding on how you eat too.