Originally Posted by recycler
Despite all the water and Gator Aid consumed, I lost an inch of waistline and 8 pounds. I really can't afford either, being on the slim side. But, it was a lifetime experience, and I'd do it again in a heartbeat. My son and his best friend were a joy to be with and we had lots of laughs along the way.
Congragulations-- A ride like that would challenge most of us so thanks for the inspiration.
Hate to say it but for a ride like this, you have to prepare. Of course fitness and bike checking come into it, but for the long 1 day ride that I am planning, I carbo load for 2 weeks before the event, every meal will be pasta, rice, bread, potatoes, etc. I will generaly put on about 7lbs in those 2 weeks, and I will need it. Doesn't help after about 6 hours riding though, as if the carbs lost have not been replaced, body energy starts to disappear at the sight of the next hill. We eat right the way through the ride and water is taken at 1 litre every hour as a minimum. The extra weight has normally gone by the end of the 12 hour ride, but I wish I could lose that 1" on the waist line.