My bike is at the mechanic too. He didn't like the way it felt when he pedaled it backwards. He'll take a closer look tonight. May need new parts and everything - uh oh. So hopefully it will be OK for Sunday. Did spinning class today since no bike.

Your route does sound tough, with few options for bailing out. You have a later ride that is your ultimate training goal right? You don't want to have a bad experience now that affects your mind set for the future event. On the other hand, I never advocate for doing less - it's a hard choice!

Sounds like your DH is a busy athlete -- but some really fit people seem to be able to pull themselves together and execute. My friend trained half heartedly for her 3 rd NY Marathon, decided to run at the last minute, and did fine.

Part of the bike does seem to getting the hang of when to gear the bike up and down - not just fitness, but strategy too.