I have to say that "training" for something is getting my butt out there more religiously than before, and those stubborn 20 lbs I need to lose are finally starting to budge. I have seen threads from a lot of larger riders that have completed very impressive distances- maybe not at top speed, but with relative comfort.

I am glad for all the hydration pack info- I need to get one for mtn bike riding, and hadn't even considered taking one on the road. The ride I am considering has stops at 10, 25, and every 25 after- which seems fairly spaced out.