Originally Posted by
steve2k
- I can't really do this another time, I don't really want to be away from my family, but as they'll be away anyway it seems like the best time to try this.
As tempting as it may be, that's not a good reason to take off on a trip that could turn into an Epic.
Originally Posted by
steve2k
- I'd be doing the ride with a friend of mine who rides about as much as I do and is up the for the challenge of doing this.
"Up for the challenge", in this context, means that he thinks it sounds like a fun idea. Unfortunately, that doesn't mean "adequately prepared". It's good not to go alone, but with someone at the same level of conditioning and (lack of) experience at long rides, it's not a huge advantage.
Originally Posted by
steve2k
- As we're just going for the weekend, I'd probably just take a couple of pairs of cycling shorts, a jersey, jacket and trousers (pretty much what I carry to work each day on my commute).
- We'd be staying in hotels / B&B's, so we don't have to carry any tents or anything.
Where would you carry these things?
When you arrive at your destination for the night and are going to go out to get something to eat, what will you wear?
How will you carry supplies such as food/snacks/water?
Originally Posted by
steve2k
- I think we'll pass a big town/city every 30 miles or so, so there will almost always be a way to get a train home if it all goes pear shaped.
You definitely want to look into these options more closely, also re: accommodations. Don't assume that they will have vacancies.
Originally Posted by
steve2k
- We're doing it really just to see if we can, just for the fun of trying.
That's a great reason to try something...but if the trying becomes distinctly Not Fun, are you the sort of person who will be okay with that?