Originally Posted by
DougG
Wow, that's quite an experience and more than a bit scary. I hope you find a cause and can avoid a repeat.
As someone who has yet to do a century, a double sounds unreal. Having done both a few marathons (running) and numerous half-marathons, I can tell you that a full marathon is way more than twice as difficult than a half-M. Is it the same in biking?
I'd be curious how you approach one of these, especially regarding the typical speed that you travel at and if you ever get off the bike to take a break. I've found that in events where I ride at, say, 18mph most of the time on the roads, I'm still lucky to average 15mph for the overall distance/time due to breaks, hills, slowing or stopping at intersections, etc.
The organizers usually have rest stops about 2-2 1/2 hours apart with food and water. You're right about the overall speed since you do get off the bike. Also, for me I don't ride as fast during the ride as I would doing a shorter ride. The second half, 100 miles, is more mental for me. On this ride, Camino Real, most of the big climbs are at the end which makes it harder.