I've got an entry in the
RideLondon-Surrey 100 next weekend.
What tosserly advice can you offer?
You lucky beggar I'd love to do that, didn't even see it.
Things to take
1) As noted above, 2 x spare inner tubes.
2) Tyre levers
3) Clear Glasses/sunglasses to keep the flies out of your eyes.
4) Spare clothes & towel for the finish in case you get soaked
5) Mobile phone (just in case)
7) Food, ideally gels & energy bars. For a route of that size, assuming there are a couple of feedstations I'd take 5 gels & 3 energy bars & a small bag of jelly babies.
8) Drink. I take 2 full water bottles with energy powders in. I also take 2 x energy powders with me which I can add if there is only water at the feed station, though most feed stations provide energy drinks.
When riding
1) As noted above, pace yourself, it'll be a long day but done properly you'll have a whale of a time, set off too quickly & somehere along the line you'll tire badly a hate the experience.
2) If you come across another rider or 2 (or more) doing a speed that you're comfortable with join them. Sit in behind them. You will be amazed at how much energy you save riding in someone elses wheel but do remember to take your turn at the front if you can. You don't have to be at the front for miles & miles but if everyone takes their turn it is appreciated & makes things tick along nicely.
3) Eat. Not when you're hungry, it's too late then. You'll know your own body but I try to eat something after roughly every 20 miles or so & again 30 minutes from the end of the ride.
4) Drink. But don't overdo it. You don't want to be stopping for a slash every 10 miles.
5) Relax, don't rush, enjoy it. You will have a wonderful time.
I cannot begin to tell you how jealous I am. You lucky, lucky beggar.
*****Edit: In fact, on reflection you're going to hate it. Don't do it. I'll happily refund your entry fee & do the ride in your name.
