Thanks again for the input everyone... keep it coming.

I was looking a bit more at the website for the ACS bike-a-thon, and I think I can scale back my speed goals a bit. The recommendation for 14-16 MPH for the 65 mile ride had me thinking about the course/aid station timing being an issue, but as I look at it, the 100 mile option (which starts from the same place) has a recommendation of 16 - 18 MPH, so they have to at least be thinking of having the overall course open for at least 6.5 hours or so. I think I'll be okay with shooting for 10 - 12 MPH average, which I do feel a lot more comfortable.

Ted