Originally Posted by perspiration

From my experience with longer rides, you really should just try being on your bike as long as you can. After a few hours, take inventory of what hurts. I know from experience my hands start to hurt and I get hot foot pretty badly, so having that in mind, I can prepare myself better as far as equipment and riding.

As far as techniques, make sure you get off the saddle every once in a while and change sitting positions as well as hand positions. Don't go any faster than is comfortable. Try whistling "Mary Had A Little Lamb" and if you can do it without stopping to catch your breath, you're probably going a nice pace.