As with most ultra endurance events, you don't need to train for the amount of time you are going to do in your actual race, because the recovery time is similar to the recovery time of the actual event (which in turn gets in the way of your training). For example, most marathoners only do 20 mile runs in preparation for a 26.2 mile run. During your taper, your body makes the physiological adjustments to prepare you for the additional mileage. Lots of people over-train and end up sick, injured, or burned out before your actual event. Each time you dig deeper, you will require more recovery time. As your events get longer, the risks of "simulating" the race increase (tendinitis, adrenal fatigue, etc.). Not trying to sound like a know it all! Just trying to share my experiences--I have been pretty successful with the long stuff, and have also made some pretty HUGE mistakes myself--just trying to pass along the wisdom from those mistakes!

Pedal Wrench has ridden long, and so has Susan. There are quite a few others who have as well--keep reaching out to the others who have been there.

The ultramarathon cycling association has a LOT of great information and articles about training and racing beyond the century. http://www.ultracycling.com/sections/articles/


Adventure Corps also has some great articles as well: http://www.adventurecorps.com/way/index.html#ttcycling

I am jealous! That ride looks great!