I would definately go with the gear options, will keep your legs fresher. Stop briefly at all the rest stops even if you don't necessarily feel like you need to, will help you in the long run. Grab small bites of food at the stops to keep fueled up and stay hydrated. I actually carbo loaded before last years and feel like it helped me. BTW, if you raise enough money they will give you a jersey for the ride! I got a yellow one last year.
