Not a waste of time at all. I'd love to have 5 or 6 hours to listen to the wind and hum of my wheels.

I'd load up my jersey pockets with bananas and cookies. Or gels if that's your thing. Take some money for lunch and emergencies. And be ready for temperature changes. Around here, that just means arm and knee warmers.

Last summer I did a century by combining a 30 mile ride with a buddy, a 50 mile group training ride, and 20 solo miles. I left early, the time went really quickly and I was home by lunch time. Something you might consider.

Let us know how it goes!