King of the Downs

badback

Have stupidly put myself down for the evans ride it King of the Downs event. Have done the western loop of it last year.

Basically any tips at all. Dont get the time to train all day, young family and all that so am limited to two hour rides on a spinner at work.

How about food intake as will be out all day?

What to wear in the morning as it will be cold to start off then hopefully sunshine?

Have one drink bottle will this be enough? Have another one but put all my puncture stuff in it. i find the pouch under the saddle rubs my legs.

Any thoughts would be much appreciated.

Anonymous

What one are you doing, 56 or 113 milers ?

You should take 2 bottles, filled with whatever energy drink suits you. Find a bag that doesnt rub your legs and put your puncture stuff in there. maybe a little tri bag on the top tube is an option. Use your pockets for food, mobile etc. Find what food, gels suit as well and take some. sods law dictates that the feed stations will be empty or not very good if you dont take your own food. You will need to train more than you are. A concerted effort to get out, lighter morning and evenings will help. Knock the booze on the head ( if you drink) and get as much rest as you can.
Foodwise, I use croissants with ham, jam and cream cheese in them, wrapped in tin foil. look on Youtube for Dr Alan Lims recipes and techniques. I find the croissant one to work best for me. he even shows how to fold the tinfoil properly !
Cut out your snacking on sweet stuff and hydrate plenty in the week before the ride. Try and ride within a bunch to lessen the effort on the day, but remember to do some of the work and take turns on the front. With the same remit, don't pull people round all day.

So try and train a bit more on the bike itself, you will need to sharpen your road skills, especially when riding with people, try and be self sufficient food wise and top up bottles whenever you get the opportunity.

Enjoy it, thats the golden rule.