I should also mention that while it was definitely the base + kill yourself rides that got me as fit as I am, I wasn't riding as well as I currently am until I incorporated more rest into my training regime. Whereas I put in a 1000mi build month in July, I've pulled back to 10hrs/wk in August and am absolutely flying.
So, as all the books will say:
base
build
ease up and stay fresh for races
Should also say that despite all the time I've taken off this year (forced and drinking), it was the work I did last year that helped me return to my best, and then surpass it. **** builds up.