noteon, the good news is that I'll be doing the ride in two 100 miles stages, which is what about 85% of the riders tend to do. So luckily my findings on the 80 mile ride pretty much confirm what I'll need to know. Food, water, ibuprofen, stretching--these are key. And enjoying the ride. To do the 200 miles in one day equals 16-18 hours, and that's more punishment than I need or want!