First Century & Flying Solo

[squirrell]

I'm doing my first Century on Oct. 25th by myself, too. But then I always ride solo--my DH doesn't ride and there's no groups around me to train with or ride with. So, I'm on my own, as usual. The mileage isn't that much of a concern as is keeping my glucose levels up throughout (T2 diabetic). Which is way I'm glad though it's a supported Century--plenty of people around if I start to bonk.

[Brandy]

I wouldn't be too concerned about riding alone. You can ride at your own pace and more importantly, not have to wait for anyone at the rest stops.

If I can give you any advice, it's to not take too long at the stops. Pee, refill and out. Your legs will thank you later!

Good luck!

[Momonbikemob]

Sorry I don't have much to say about doing a century (my max ever was 65miles), but I wanted to cheer you on and wish you a wonderful ride! You're an inspiration to all of us who would like to dream of doing a century on our own (and have the time to train for it)! Go for it and enjoy the peaceful solitude! ... Although you'll probably end up meeting lots of new friends

[arielmoon]

Thank you everyone! I feel really good heading into the ride.

I am going to get more Gu to have on hand and I am going to remember my watch so I can time my stops and hydration.

[OakLeaf]

See if you can find out how far apart the rest stops are, then figure out whether you will need water between stops. That's definitely an issue on some century rides. If you think you'll need more water between stops than you normally carry, then you'll either need to plan to carry more water (hydration pack or bottles mounted on the seatpost or handlebars), or find out whether there's a public park or a convenient store where you can refill.

Good luck and have fun!

[arielmoon]

See if you can find out how far apart the rest stops are, then figure out whether you will need water between stops. That's definitely an issue on some century rides. If you think you'll need more water between stops than you normally carry, then you'll either need to plan to carry more water (hydration pack or bottles mounted on the seatpost or handlebars), or find out whether there's a public park or a convenient store where you can refill.

Good luck and have fun!

This ride is on home turf so to speak so I know the area very well. There are 4 stops approx 25 miles apart. I think I will be ok with my two 24oz bottles but I will bring some money just in case!

Thanks!

[RolliePollie]

I'm doing my first Century all by myself this Saturday...so I'll be thinking about you doing your ride on Sunday!

I'm sure you'll be just fine by yourself. Last fall I did my first organized ride (Tour de Tahoe) all by myself...I had no idea what to expect and I was kinda scared...but it turned out great. Then this Spring I did a metric with a friend and I think I actually would've enjoyed it more had I been alone. Then you don't have anyone else's expectations to live up to, you can go at your own pace, stop when you need to, etc.

Good luck (to both of us!). Have a blast

p.s. I'm packing gels, Shot Blocks, a Power Bar, cashews, and extra Gatorade powder just in case I don't like what they have at the rest stops