UniChris

Something like Nuun probably has a better sodium / potassium balance (though it varies by variety).

Completely agree with those who say the sugar is justified, especially when it's hot and you're pushing hills, though I actually add an electrolyte tablet to it ordinary sports drinks bottles or powder. I'll taper off to just an electrolyte supplement late in the day, and just water pre-ride and at the end. Or if I'm only out for a couple of hours. Ultimately you learn what your body needs, if water is making you sick, you need to supplement it. Same if you're getting leg cramps.

That said a really nice hot day at home drink is a pinch of table salt, a pinch of potassium salt substitute and a spoonful of red wine vinegar, then fill the glass with cold water.