Thanks for all the info, I am riding everyday now already that is why I dropped 36lbs in 1.5 months already, so I think the weight will not be a problem. I am planning on doing quite a few local tours next year, incl the Across Kansas ride and the Kansas City MS 150 in 2011. I have a good bike already, so I will just train and ride miles every month doing about 300 miles a month now. I will contact the Event organizer and get all the details as you guys said.