That's crazy! 45 miles! No wonder you were tired...Whenever I increase my distance, usually by 10-20 miles, I always feel very, very tired the last five miles or so, plus my feet are numb, and I just want to get off and sit or walk. But then, the next time, when I get to the mileage that killed me before, on the way to a longer distance, it seems so easy, and I am always really happy to see the old mileage record go by and still feel great.

I always carry more food and water than I need, just in case I end up feeling like going further than originally planned. I have a Camelback Rogue, I think it is, and I tuck a bunch of gels and Sharkies and maybe an energy bar down inside it, and put some little packs of soy crisps and Jelly Belly sports beans in my bento box, which is a small stiff-sided fabric box with a velcro/mesh lid that goes on the top tube and attaches to the stem. My phone and whatever else are in there, too. That way I can have a quick snack if my stomach starts growling, without having to make a big deal and get off the bike. Although I usually plan to stop about every hour to walk around and eat a bite and let my feet and hands relax.

Proper nutrition while you're riding is the key to being able to keep going.

Nanci