209 miles - double century NW Albuquerque to Los Alamos with a side trip to Bandelier via 550 and Rt 4 through Jemez mountains. Solo self supported and yes I used a water pack (camelback) to carry extra water and food - last year. I would like to do something flatter next time. The trick (as advised by someone who did it many times) is to bring another pair of shorts and to carry antibacterial cream to avoid any bum issues and do not change anything on your bike or buy a different type of shorts a month before. Shaving that area was also helpful. Plus pacing. I only got off the bike when I ran out of fluids. Other than the time I was surprised that it was not that hard. I took my time got passed many times but just stuck to my pace.

Machka is the Queen of long distance rides!!!