Originally Posted by dgasmd
I don't really do very long rides, but always wondered how people do it as far as replenishing water and food they consume along the way. I mean, I drink a water bottle about every 18-20 miles, so when I go for 35-40 miles, 2 bottles do it just fine for me. I am thinking about doing much longer rides like 50-100 miles, but the idea of carrying several bottles full in my jersey puts it out of the question.
How do you do it? What do you do for food too? Do you usually stop over mid ride for a break and eat or do you do the entire thing non-stop?
If I'm doing a ride that I know well I'll just buy food and drink along the way. If it's the first time I'm doing the ride then I load up the Camelbak with extra water and food, PB&J works well. When I lead rides and I know that there is a long section where we won't run into any stores I carry extra water and I have Gatorade powder. I always carry a full 100 oz Camelbak on rides over 30 miles. I routinely empty the bladder in 40 miles. I've always been known for having a full Camelbak (tools, food, drink, etc) that it doesn't bother me to carry the extra 15 - 20 lbs. My friend is looking for a small anvil for me to throw in there.
My lunch time rides tend to be about 25 miles, week day rides about 35 miles and week end rides about 100 miles.
PS, I tend to stop as needed but usually in the 20 - 30 mile range. That's just what my riders are expecting. I usually prefer something a bit longer.