postmansi

have done a number of these rides. You dont really need to do too much preparation. I believe if you do the full route it is about 45 miles. The pace is very relaxed so even if you are in so so condition you should have no trouble finishing. The end of the ride goes over the Verazanno Bridge and is the steepest part. You will finish in Staten Island and then head back to Manhattan by the Ferry. All the info about start times is on the website. The rides are a lot of fun but it gets very crowded at certain points and beware there are always a few knucleheads riding unsafely and lots of beginners. I have witnessed a few mass pileups because of this. There is a mass start so be prepared to be walking for the first few blocks of the ride because of the crowds. It will also bottleneck again at Central Park...walking again, and maybe again at one of the other bridges. Make sure you bring water and maybe a few carb bars. There will be refreshments at the rest stops. I used to hang back at the start to avoid the crowds but it really was no use as you always seem to catch up to the bottlenecks. If you get there early, get to the front and sprint from the start you might avoid all this, but I would suggest relax, take your time and enjoy the event. Of course watch the weather reports as to how to dress but generally at this time of year there are cool mornings and the afternoons are perfect for riding: arm and/or leg warmers will probably suffice.
Enjoy!