Food is important, even on short rides. I usually don't bring anything along except water. But the other day I ate a power bar while riding (~200 cal) for 2.5 hours. My average speed increased by almost 2 km/hour on a familiar route. I was shocked.

It's good to get into the habit of eating on the bike, even if it's "only" a 30 mile ride. As for what to eat, experimentation is the best way to find out what works for you.

I find gels pretty good for a quick hit of energy (before major climbs and such), but the most important thing is to eat something.

Ahah you guys are crazy on the gels vs bar subject.

Let the debate go on!

Bump AHaha

Try e-gels. A little harder to find but taste the best in my opinion. They also contain more sodium which is a problem for me.

www.cranksports.com

Well I actually though about the taste part, I prob dont want gels that taste tooooo good or else i'll start eating gels when I am watching tv... AHha So I dont mind if it taste like crap, I just need it to do its job, quick and easy on the ride.

I rarely get the opportunity to ride more than 2hrs at a time, so don't take solid food with me - but do follow the one bottle of water + one bottle of sugar-stuff (gatorade etc.) routine, since I'm always riding hills. Surprised no-one else has asked you what kind of terrain you'll be covering for your 30-40mile ride.

http://media.rei.com/media/891893.jpg

tried one once and damn near hurled. fig newtons, dried fruit, and clif bars do the trick for me.

I like eating gels because they are quicker to consume and I don't have to do the chewing thing. Especially important if you are going keeping a hard pace. But it does give you an excuse to slow down, catch your breath, eat and chase back onto your group (and hoping they realized you dropped off and slowed down a bit).

If you want good bars, look into Bonk Breakers.

I like Hot Tamales candy... They are pretty much just sugar, and I think I read in Bicycling something about benefits of cinnamon.