Originally posted by ragbrai40
...just wasn't sure where the gu came into the equation
Gels are kinda an acquired taste. I think of them as "intensity" foods more than "endurance" foods, i.e. if I am riding 100 miles at "touring pace" with a group of friends I'll stick with solid food. A two-hour duathlon would be a situation where I would use gels/energy drinks. My tummy rejects solids when the intensity rises

A gel flask or packet is also a good insurance policy "just in case". Slip one in your jersey pocket and if that 30 mile spin turns into a 70 mile death march you'll be prepared