You guys just crack me up! Thanks for all the encouragement and advice. It sounds quite a bit different (and generally friendly) than a climbing experience can be (although don't get me wrong, there are some great hikes/climbs with nice folks, too).

I will try the gatorade/water mix, thanks for the tip. I know water just won't cut it as I get into longer and longer rides.

And yes, my flat tire changing lesson is coming up soon!! Meantime, I'm taking that same paved trail by myself tomorrow...my first solo ride and I'm planning on doing the full 40 miles. Let's just say my cell phone will be close at hand....also, there are lots of houses along the route, so we'll see how I do!

Again, this is a great forum and I'm learning tons. It's so fun to have a new sport to try and I just can't wait to do Cycle Oregon...but it's nice to have plenty of time to get ready and a site to come to to learn how not be an inconsiderate idiot on a bike ;-)