When I starting biking again, I drank lots of water. As my fitness improved, I found that I drank less water. I now force myself to drink as I ride. If I am going to ride more than 30 miles I'll add fizzy electrolytes into my water to prevent cramps. Rides longer than 45 miles I also will consume Clif shot, which seem to help with leg fatigue.
In contrast, however, while hiking, I drink too much and my fingers swell up some.