Great thread! We used to use Repel "Sportsmen" (29% deet) which worked very well for repelling insects but caused mild headaches and severe sunburning on arms and legs after riding all day. We switched to Cutter Advanced (per Consumer Report article) and it repells insect just as well and does cause severe sunburning or headaches. North Dakota has insects that bite through your clothing (especially shorts) so we use Repel Lemon Eucalyptus under the shorts/jersey.....no insect bites in very emberassing/tender body parts and no "chemistry" discomforts like we had with Deet based repellants. We won't leave home without Benadryl Cream for allergic reaction to insect bites.....especially deer fly bites.....which BURN like a fire ant bite (hot charcoal agaisnt your skin) for days! Stop your bike and apply the Benadryl cream to bitten area as soon as possible......imediately is too slow :>)
Happy touring...
BCNU
Gary & Kathy