The worst part about a century is the pre-ride jitters.

I normally take a jacket and either tights or leg warmers. If I know it's going to warm up quite a bit later in the day, leg warmers are my choice because they're easier to take off and take up less space.

If you are worried about hauling too much stuff, try a handlebar bag, a large seat bag or take a camel back and strap it on.

Fight the temptation to start quickly for it is the path to perdition. Better to start slowly and take your time warming your muscles up. I also find it relaxes me. And besides, the people who are just tootling along on a ride seem to have the most fun.