Roody

I think if you're trying to lose weight (or at least not gain weight), it's a bad idea to eat much extra food unless you're riding more than a couple hours. But you will probably ride better if your blood sugar is a little high before you start. And you'll probably recover better if you eat something right after you come in. That's why I suggested eating half your lunch before the ride and the rest when you get in.

That doesn't mean you can't ride hungry. Most people can, except maybe diabetics. But many people ride stronger and happier if they have a little food in their systems. Work with it, experiment a little. You'll soon figure out what works best for you.