I actually did this about 10 years ago. Bristol to London. Zero training, drunk the night before, 1 hour late and didn’t see anyone really until Newbury...finished. Couldn’t walk for 2 days and my arse was bleeding. Never again.
GRUMP - did Ride 101 with my brother-in-law the rugby playing, hard drinking lad (I actually really like him). ‘Anybody can ride 100 miles on a bike’. He bonked at 60ish miles and steadily died for the next 40 miles. He finished but looked me dead in the eye at the end and told me ‘That was the single worst experience of my life - never again’. He now does the iron man every year. Good lad!
The above advice from GCN is Excellent but here’s more: If you can ride a somewhat hilly 25 miler and not be too thrashed after, you can eek out the average Century Charity Ride. Just ride it a notch down slower on the flats, 2 notches on the climbs. I’d advise you have a Compact Crank or even a Triple Crank and if your RD has the capacity, install the LARGEST cassette the Bike will allow, a 32t, 34t, 36t (Short or Medium cage RD), a 40t or 42t (Long cage RD with RD Hanger extender “Wolf Tooth Roadlink”). Crawl the climbs spinning at at least 60 rpms Minimum in lowest gear, any cadence slower and you’re beating your leg muscles up. Keep your cadence at at least 70 rpms climbing if it’s comfortable and the hill is not too steep to were you run out of gears. Don’t overspin the flats, 80-90 rpms cadence is most efficient for long distances to conserve energy. Below 75rpms will wear your legs out, so will over 90rpms and also redline your cardiovascular system and you’ll bonk. NO quick accelerations from stops and NO sprinting. Get a good night sleep, Eat a hearty breakfast an hour before the ride, stretch frequently and massage the neck and legs throughout the ride. If your stomach can handle it, take a 50/50 mix of Motrin and Tylenol before the ride after breakfast and every 4 hrs. throughout the ride. 500 mg. Tylenol with 400 mg. Motrin will work wonders to numb the pain, but take it on a full stomach. DON’T take Motrin if you have stomach sensitivities to it. Just take 1000 mg. Tylenol instead. If your stomach is VERY sensitive don’t take Tylenol either. CLIF Bars work GREAT when you start to bonk, so carry about 3 of them in your jersey pocket. Carry at least #2 27-32 oz. LARGE Water Bottles, hydrate at least 40 oz./Hr. and kept refilling your bottles full at rest stops. If you ride with a fitter partner INSIST to draft behind him on flats, and INSIST he slow down if you get winded and tell him to WAIT for you at the top of climbs. Bring at least #2 spare inner tubes and a Good MANUAL Mini-pump, NOT CO2 Pump. You SHOULD be able to limp out a Century if in sub par shape and cycle semi frequently say 2 times/wk. averaging 35 miles/week, with at least 1 day a month Moderate Hill climbing. You’re gonna HURT the next few days though. Stretch like crazy and Book a good 1 Hr. Massage the following day and rest for a week after. Riding a Century in Sub Fit Condition will PUNISH you!
First year back into biking I did 25km, then 50km now 100km! Also dropped 65lbs along the way. Riding with a partner really helps me! This is the first year I'll have one :) love your channel and tips!
Jenn Comishen Music Comments like that show your will to not give up and keep going to increase your max potential. I have not really lost that much weight cycling as most of my body weight is already on my lower torso. My legs did increase in muscle size through since I am always power cycling doing 20 km sprints back and forth. I also run as well and combine cycling with running to test my body.
@@danfuerthgillis4483 that's amazing! Good for you :). I was obese when I started cycling and am now a "perfect" (healthy) weight for my height. That's the only reason I lost so much weight. Good luck :)
@@dunkno1660 Like I said, I just got back into cycling.. So I've been upping the kms as I go.. also because of where I live, all of my races or marathons are kms, and there aren't a whole lot that do 160km specifically 😂😂 kind of an odd number. I'm actually shooting for 200km my next ride, which will be 125 miles so 🤷♀️. Just here to learn and have fun. You help others grow through positivity, not negativity 😎🚴♀️✌️
On a long ride, I spend 0.5 miles out of the saddle for every 4.5 miles I ride in the saddle. This gives my butt a break and exercises my leg muscles in a different way, thus making it more tolerable. All my long rides are done alone, I can set the pace as I think fit and take breaks when I need. I agree with keeping breaks short. Don't forget to drink plenty of water.
I completed my first century yesterday. Alone, hardly any training at all. My next longest ride was 40 miles and that was last year. Been on a handful of 20 mile rides this year but that's it.
I only ride alone. I don't want to hold up better riders, and I don't want worse holding me up. I never ride side by side on public highways and I hate small talk with gay men.
Meh. Depends on your fitness level and drive. I've done most of my 100 kilometre rides on my own (which I know is less then 100 miles) & this is how I built up mental strength and riding my own pace and rhythm. Music is critical for my focus.
@@ackack8752 I set out to do 100mm and, when I finished, I felt so strong I did another 100mm. Problem is, I wasn't really thinking and now I was 200mm from home, exhausted and I had to get back somehow.
I did my first 100 mile on my known roads around my home, in a star topology, so I gave the possibility to cancel it anytime. It was not necessary at the end.
We did a smaller 100 mile charity ride this way earlier this year. The base/SAG was in the center and there were 5 10 mile routes, which also were reversed so it was 100 mile total to ride all routes. Makes it easy to have an event w/minimal staff.
I think *pacing* was the most important point for a century cyclist who is short on prep. -- Here are a few of more suggestions: (1) Plan to leave early. If your century is an organized event, be at the start line at the earliest allowable time. That way you'll have more time to complete the route and will be better-positioned to maintain a reasonable pace for your fitness level. (2) Each time you stop, take a few minutes to stretch. It will help you avoid muscle cramps. (3) Be extra-careful to stay hydrated. Since you're not at your best fitness level, dehydration will take a greater toll. (4) Familiarize yourself with the route beforehand. If possible, enter it along with turn-by directions into your cycling computer the day before. The last thing you want to do is get lost and be forced to expend energy you don't have.
Most Garmins have a battery saving mode. Pressing the screen will bring up the data and then it till disappear. Then all that's left to is do is find a pace you feel comfortable with then draft behind someone who is going similar speed. 👍
Just did my first 100k in Rotterdam a couple weeks ago. Had friends in the group who were much more experienced and fast, so it was a much higher pace than I war ready for. Kept with them until maybe the last 5k. Pretty proud overall, 3:50 total time, pretty exhausted at the end. Good times!
I did my first and longest bike tour of 180km a few weeks back, total riding time was about 9hrs, the complete trip lasted 14hrs as I visited two lakes, went for a swim and got surprised by a summer storm.... I went alone and on my way back the last 40km were excruciating, my bum was hurting and my motivation was almost gone, so I had to dig deep and push myself hard.... Eventually I made it home ^^ would do it again, but with better gear next time... I am Trekking bike rider and really love doing it, but sadly its hard to find friends to come along on long rides, but I'll keep pushing myself to get better 😁
How to ride 100 miles when you haven't trained: don't. Cycling should be a positive experience and as anything worth doing, you're worth doing it right. My friend tagged along with me for a 50 mile ride once with no training and he was just miserable because he hadn't prepared. His butt was sore, his legs were killing him, we couldn't set any kind of consistent pace and it did detract a little from the rest of the group's enjoyment too. And by the end of the day, it was great he finished, but he could barely move for the next week. Also it rained the whole day, and having to go slow in rain, extending the length of the ride in that kind of weather just was very little fun at all. Now he's barely out on his bike, doesn't really enjoy it and is totally resistant to doing a similar length of ride ever again, despite my urging him that he found it so tough because he did next to no training and that with training, his butt would've endured, his legs would've still had something left in them by the end and he could've focused on enjoying the day and the chat in the group instead, as he enjoyed riding shorter distances with me. Put in the effort. If you don't feel you can do it, don't agree to do it. You'll only end up either failing, or hurting yourself in the attempt to succeed, and the overall experience will be no fun at all. Takes time, but putting in the training really is rewarding as on the day you can enjoy it, know it's within your capabilities, and you can even push and set goals for yourself and gain a really good understanding of where your limitations physically are at. Just frees you up to have a more enjoyable day. Plus you look like a complete badass on Strava completing a long ride in a good time with a good pace, you'll feel even more badass completing one and beating some PRs over that kind of distance if you've done one before. Riding 100 is both easy and difficult. You can't just rock up and expect it to be easy and fun, but with training it can be a good challenge, a very feel good milestone and a fun day of riding, potentially going to new places if it's a point A to point B sort of ride and not a round trip.
Completely agree. One small thing, though: "training" sounds like a lot of work and hassle and, honestly, I don't think you need to "train" for a 50-mile ride. "Practice" sounds a lot friendlier and is plenty for that distance. Telling your friend that he needs to train to do 50 miles might be putting him off almost as much as the bad memories of last time.
Disagree. It's more about your attitude or your friend's attitude more than anything. I've done centuries with friends who are fit, but not cyclists. Yeah, their butt hurts, yeah, they can cramp up, but their attitude towards it always saw them to the end with great enjoyment. If you're the type of person who finds some struggle to be an addition to a great adventure then you'll finish, or even not finish, in high spirits. Conversely I've done centuries with people that are always disappointed in their time, how that one guy didn't pace line correctly, etc. etc. and though there was no struggle, it was miserable. Know your body of course, but remember to have fun otherwise why are you doing it anyway?
I'm inclined to agree because cycling 15 miles alone can be a workout itself, and 100 miles is not exactly a picnic. For the inexperienced, that could mean 10hrs of cycling. It does entirely depend on your general fitness, your state of mind, and also the route that you take. If you have good conditioning, you can probably go a lot further, even if you haven't cycled in a while. Everyone is different, so I think this video is more aimed at those who are sporty and enthusiastic but uncertain about being able to achieve it
Llama__ Absolutely 100% correct. People who don't regularly do long rides need to realize that even if they try to cruise along at 15mph, a 100 mile ride will take them at least 6 1/2 hours of riding time. Inexperienced dietary mistakes often are, drinking too much electrolytes and not enough plain water, stopping too long and overeating at aid stations. Often overlooked is not bringing sunscreen as most century rides start off early in the morning, but end past noon in the heat of the day. Be realistic, a 6 1/2 hr. 100 mile ride is not a walk in the park.
This video had some good tips but I agree: if you haven't consistently rode 10 milers I wouldn't try to bang out a 50 miler and especially not a Century.
Food! Before, during, and after! Can't stress this enough. I've never done 100 miles, but when I did 100km without training and with not enough food I ended up feeling horrible.
You're right, I was out of shape, 6 months without proper ridings, the forecast for the Sunday was perfect then I decided to ride 100km, did four stops to get drinks and food, completed it feeling quite good actually. One thing to add to the list is the mindset I'd say. As I said it was a perfect weather, I really wanted to ride, so I said myself 'I'll do it' and did it.
Definitely agree. My first ride over 100km I took too many of a bar, thought it would be ok, hated them by mid way. Now I pack a variety for long rides with real food and sports products. I like rice balls
Completely disagree with you about food. I have done many 30, 40, 50 and a couple of 65 mile rides fasted. I will be doing a 100 mile ride fasted as well. Once your get your body fat adapted it is easy.
@@Tanguero1__Read the title of this video. It's how to ride 100 miles without training. Riding fasted requires training one's physiology to adapt to that energy relay. I'm also sure you have a specific dietary regimen to support your methods and that takes training to adapt to. This video is addressing riders who may have signed up for a century ride and haven't trained properly to ride that distance. I'm pretty sure these same folks aren't going to take the time to learn fasted riding techniques in order to do a charity ride.
Don’t forget strength training is very important too for endurance and recovery . I did my first one last year in 7 hours. 12 months of watt bike training and weights really made it possible and enjoyable.
I signed up to do Ride London 100 last year and almost immediately was daunted. My bike and I are both old and heavy, 25 years bike and 66 years me. I spent 4 months training and lost 13kg. I did everything you suggested. I caught the wheel of a lady about my age but she looked more serious (good gear and bike) than I and followed her for about 20 miles. I meant to thank her and apologies for not taking a turn (I wasn’t able) but did not … sorry. It was a great day, I raised a lot of money for my charity.
I did coast-to-coast last year with virtually no training whatsoever I was amazed that I finished the ride even though I spent 16 hours in the saddle but what really did help was meeting other riders along the way that helped push me along as I helped them along and carrying wet weather gear I carried a light rain coat with me and that really came in handy towards the end of the day when the Sun had dropped the weather got cooler going down some descent the raincoat kept the chill off the chest glad I carried it
1977 or 78 rode 160 or so miles in one long day. Aspen to Vail Colorado via Independence Pass thinking I would stay in a motel in Vail not knowing there was a Gerald Ford Invitational Golf Tournament and no rooms available. So rode down valley to Glenwood Springs, getting there about 8 p.m. Next day 40 miles back to Aspen. Another long ride was Rutland Vermont to East Windsor, Connecticut 150 miles in 12 hours with an hour nap in Brattleboro. Now I'm 65 and 40 miles kills me.
I'm training for a 40 mile charity ride/race in April. I just recently recovered from a torn MCL, small tibial and femoral fracture, was given full recovery status in early February. The longest ride I've done is 30 miles so far. I'm nervous because I've never ridden that long or that far before, but this video helped ease some of my anxiety about it, thank you
Yep I’m doing the RideLondon 100 in August in aid of Dogs Trust. Very excited and apprehensive at the same time. 👍🏻😃it will be my first century effort😎
I am also doing this ride but in Aid of Teenage Cancer Trust. Will be my first century ride as well. I aim to build up my rides as i progress in my training this Friday I will be doing a 50 mile ride and will then aim at 75miles over the next month and aim for 100 in the coming months before.
Kelvin Bastow, you should be! The key for me was pacing, with food being a close second. If you can do 75 without destroying yourself, you'll tackle 100 easily. I'm doing a 100+ in May, a 50 in June, and another 100 in August. The August ride will be my first supported century, the others being solo ventures. Good luck to you, and enjoy yourself!
Perfect timing. I'm participating in the Garneau Gran Fondo this Sunday coming up. It's my first bike race I've signed up for and the longest distance I have ever rode. I've been traveling a lot and I havent been training like I should have. I definitely like the idea of splitting it into 4 parts. Thanks for posting this when you did!
I remember that when I started I attempted a Gran Fondo with little to no training. Surprisingly, I managed to do it. What kept me going were the landscapes and having a positive attitude... Then I got a flat tyre in the middle of nowhere. Haha.
It's even worse on cold winter days, even if you wear warm enough clothes you will still be breathing in the cold air and you will really feel that at after the long exercise.
My first 100 mile ride was without training and entirely unintentional. Went out to do a 75 mile ride with ~7k ft in elevation. Coming home the road was closed due to a fallen power line. I was forced to backtrack and ended up doing a 100 mile ride with 10k in climbing finishing in the dark at 10 PM due to not starting the ride until 2. Fortunately, I was prepared with extra water, food, a coat, and a light.
Yeah, that kind of doesn't count here. They mean someone who;s never done any thing close to 100 miles. In which case it will be a BIG deal to do. Someone doing 75 miles regualarly is hardly in the newbie camp. A 100 mile ride on the flats will take newbies 8 hours or more!!
@@cecilhenry9908 I wasn't regularly doing 75 mile rides. That was the first ride I had done of that length. Before that, the longest I had done was ~50 miles.
Wouldn't recommend riding 100mile with no training but if you did maybe crack it on a sportive. Organised, marshalled roads, mech support, feed stations and support of other riders plus it will have a fun factor
I'm doing it tomorrow for prostrate cancer research centre. I've done no training apart from 40 mins on an exercise bike last week. It's for charity but my own fault for being lazy
I did a 100km hill sportive, but have pulled out of an upcoming 140km hills event because I've been moving house and prepping to sell, so all my weekends have been spent painting, gardening, tidying etc and I haven't touched my bike for weeks. I can feel I've lost my fitness, and I'm currently exhausted. I'll just do the event next year :-) 100km+ is a long way to suffer if you're not in shape.
Definitely don't work in a group going to too fast for you. You'll regret it in the later stages when you're broken and riding on your own. Never again 🤣.
So true I had a fast mtb mate, always killed me trying to keep with him up and down the hills , the differenceca couple of mph over time not be underestimated , I used to go out for solo training sessions so I could keep up 🤣
@@Foxtrottangoabc Yep, that's the problem with every sport. Getting a partner with few years of experience ahead of you, is huge pain for both. If you are "late bloomer" to the sport, it's better to be solo at least the first year. Only then you can find a partner and a way to compromise. Otherwise the difference is just huge. I think this channel is too biased and these pro bikers just can't realize the capacity of the average person out there. 100 miles without training - absurd. Keeping up with people doing this regularly - absurd. Start solo, start short, start on flat, and keep increasing the difficulty.
Yes, split the ride up. I road from Milton Keynes to Brighton fully loaded, the route I took was about 150 miles, so to get over the painful thoughts, I just split it up an into 30 mile rides and I was easy. And I made it in nearly half the time I expected.
Looking at doing my first century at the start of June, however at the moment I'm recovering from a total hip replacement of my left hip which I broke at the end of January. Hoping to start putting some miles in on a turbo trainer sometime next week. The route I'll be doing is in 3 legs 16 miles, then the main part is a 63 mile (100 km) charity ride then the remaking 21 miles to come home
Got my first century ride for this year at the end of next month (CarTen). Sadly due to really bad weather and a poor work life ratios I've done hardly any training. The good news is I've done it a few times before and I've been cycling for years so have retained a fair level of fitness... Your video is bang on apart from the few well earned beers at the end...or mineral water if that's ya thing 🙃
I would like to add that riders should be familiar with the route, carry some cash and ID, make sure that the phone is charged and let friends and family know that they are going out for a long ride. Solo riders might want to bring along a bike lock in case they need to run into a store or a restroom. Practice with tube changes and mini pump/CO2 practice before the effort will make a mechanical much less traumatic. Try to find a balance of carrying too little and carrying too much. Eat and drink before you feel hungry or thirsty. Two 750ml bottles are better than one bladder bike pack for this sort of ride. Refill them at parks or gas stations. Centuries get easier with practice. I can't believe how much I worried about doing my first couple of solo century rides.
There's a great cycling nutrition video with Heather Schwartz on here. Opened my eyes to the importance of proper nutrition & hydration. ruclips.net/video/eeIA261_gSw/видео.html
I'm Gunna try the 40km x4 approach. Alittle boring perhaps but really being on the bike is always a joy. On a down day just watch the mood increase. Mobile Psychologist.
We normally split it in 3 sections. First 30+ miles coffee stop, second 30+ lunch stop, then another coffee stop. And regroupings, so you get mini breaks as well. But we're not racing, just ride.
Thanks for the advice.. I booked a place on the 312 next month and due to poor health haven't trained properly.. The last time was hellish but I did find salt tablets helpful to stop cramping..
I bonked HARD on my first century at about mile 80, the looks I got rumugging through the candy aisle at the gas station were classic. I have done a couple since then, though none since my knee replacement. That is next springs goal.
i did my first hundred spontaneously with some friends who were avid cyclists, we ended up doing 130 miles, before i had never done long rides, i did a max of about 20 miles in a day, but i am on the rowing team at my school so i was in shape. Went out and did it on a hybrid in a t-shirt, i loved it and now i work at a shop and ride in some capacity almost every day, amazing sport, however i do miss rowing, can’t wait for the seasons to start
Well, I have done more or less that on multiple occasions, solo. I cannot say I am a well-trained rider (especially early on in the year), avereging some 5 or 6 160 km+ rides a year (one of them usually a ca 200km ride). And from my own experience I can confirm most of what they say. Much of the whole thing is mental. A few things I have done: that helped: (1)set intermediate goals, and if you know the landscape set those stops at landmarks or after arduous/boring stretches. The rest is a reward, and you can mentally recharge with a more fun stretch of road. (2) Check the weather, and if possible make sure you have a tail-wind for as much of the ride as you can. (3) Make sure there is some kind of reward at the end. (4) On the road itself, try and look for 'targets'/'landmarks' to aim for (akin to cycling from lamp post to lamp post).
@@beeble2003 I'm not 100% but the math is pythagrus theory and the hypotenuse of the angle of 45c being 100% so I think its slightly more than the 2%. Or I could just rely on the "thigh busting lung popping" theory which is 100% accurate 😄
This video was perfectly timed for me. It's made me feel better about my ride coming up in a weeks time which I've been worrying about. I moved abroad last year and training during winter is impossible where I live. Thanks again GCN!
Doing 60miles (Arran) at the end of May. Been managing 20-30k cycles, but not upped it to near the full distance yet. I've 45 and only started cycling last October, doing 10-20k's a few times a week. Getting into it more and more, cant wait for this summer.
Start between 7-8am after a good nights sleep. Expect it to take all day. Take all day! Don't race. Enjoy the time and the breaks. Choose a loop route and not a simple out and back. Or a straight route to a friends house.
Last year I did 65 miles without any training. I couldn’t find my padded shorts so had to go without. The pain in my bum was in was unbelievable as 50% was bumpy gravel tracks and I spent a lot of time out of the saddle. Never again. Glad that I’ve been cycling much more this year.
I have a Synapse. I recently added more gears, gel under the wraps, different rise on stem, wider tires, new pedals, new seat and it's made an already good bike so much more comfortable. I'm training for a 150 miles. 4 more weeks.
All very good advice but the most important is go you own pace! If you try to keep up with someone else you will definitely burn out before you reach the end. Some determination, willpower, water and nutrition with that and you are good.
Couple points missed. Both route related. Firstly, ride out into the wind returning with wind on your back. Secondly, your first century ride should be as flat as possible. Of course if the century ride is a sportive this is not possible, but if it's not take time designing the route; and if the wind should switch direction the day before - simply reverse the route.
I attempted this solo in January in perfectly flat Florida. I didn’t bring aero stuff with me on my trip. I knew at 50mi it wasn’t going to happen. I still did 70, and it was 7 miles my longest ride ever. It was the first week back after some time off too.
Awesome short clip. Good and simple. I split long rides (+150kms) up into sections, such as; important main junction, mountain top, village fountain etc. rather than into kilometre defined lengths. Oh and by the way, please give your psi in bars too. Thanks!
i used to do a century a month. tires at 110. I was always alone. longest practice rides were always one hour. Food was the key, especially early and often. felt terrible for three days.
Know your route - that way you can strategise your fuelling/food stops (ie. 1st gel at village x, 2nd gel/bar at town y etc.) and do the same with taking on fluids, pace your efforts properly and you can break the route/climbs up into bite size sections. Unless there’s a nasty climb at the end of the route you will get a massive morale boost when you get over that last climb 10-15 miles before the end of the event. I’ve got cimla hill to tackle after having broken myself on the black mountain, crai pass, devils elbow, penderyn moors, rhigos and Bwlch, right at the end of the 138mile Dragon ride this June. Moral of the story - pick your 100+ miles route carefully!☺️
100 miles in a day is tough for anyone. Hydration, food, and pacing is essential. I haven't done a century ride yet, but have done a metric century once (62 miles). I would run out of daylight before reaching 100 miles, untrained.
I did a 50 miler on my tod and cycle probably half that distance once a week if that. I stopped a couple of times for a pint and it was a great day out. I felt pretty fresh at the end.
once did 120km overweight, out of shape and riding a cheapo MTB HT! definitely doable haha I now commute on a rigid fork disc brake hybrid and for my 700 x 32s i put 50/60 PSI Front/Rear and i find the ride's comfort level smack in between a MTB HT and a 23-25mm full blown Road Bike! More importantly i enjoy and want to ride more ^^
I started active cycling this year in april and i ride about 4-5 times a week between 30 und 50 miles and once every 2 Weeks i go for long distance rides. The first time i rode 100 miles was on a 40 years old Olmo Gran-Prix Bike where i lost my gears after 70 miles. My goal for this year is a full TDF distance in the Alps with 145 Miles and do it under 10 hours (Systemweight=240 lbs) ;)
Check the weather: did that yesterday. Forecast said it was going to be 23 °C, no chance of rain. So didn't take any waterproofs (planned distance was around 130 kms). By the afternoon it was lashing down, no chance of stopping..
Did a 100 mile 6 years ago on an average road bike, Fuji. 60 miles was well in track, the rest 40 looked physically demanding as day got hotter and hills and elevations also went up. Overall, goal was to complete, so broke it to 75, 90mile as intermediate targets post 60 mile. I was able to complete it, total time was 8 and half hrs of saddle time. I sat in bath tub for 30 minutes and slept. Next day was not bad overall, I think I survived. Much later did a 75mile, did so much better. Love to do it again sometime, nice endurance challenge.
riding a 50-mile loop twice is probably the best. makes it easy for grabbing more food, water and a bathroom break. eat and drink during (and before) the ride, and take the first 50 easy. i'd recommend starting early, especially in the summer.
I wish I had known about this before my first Century ride. All I took was Gatorade powder, Gatorade chews, and didn't know that I should take my time at the check-in points. I just rolled in, checked in, grabbed some more water/Gatorade, and got back on the bike enroute to the next check-in point. LOL !!!
@, yeah. I know that now. I was cramping (legs and stomach, as well as hands and arms) so bad at the mile 80 check point. But, it was all my fault, since I treated those check points as a Formula 1 pit stop....get in, resupply, get out. I mentally knew that I was going to finish the 100 miles. My body just wanted me to do it a bit slower. LOL !!! Having been in the military (and, I guess, quite a bit personally stubborn as well) and having completed several difficult courses (not to mention, almost having lost my leg, and my life on several occasions during my several combat tours) made me focus and just not quit or stop. I was sore for days, I think about a week, but I just didn't quit. Now, I know better. I prepare better. I plan better. I ride better. Smarter. I have done 12 other 100+ milers in the 9 yrs since starting cycling, and doing that first Century ride. I have gone from 298 lbs down to 240-ish in that time, started racing crits, and still do several personal/training 100+ mile rides (just for fun, and to see new areas). But, now, I do it for fun, and enjoy them.
Did that from Oxford to Maidstone, bump its really hurt next couple of of days, however next days Calais, Belgium, holand, Germany, Poland, Czech Republic, Austria and then the best, my opinion, part from Vienna upstream river to Germany, and stop on border with France. Bike trek fx2, no preparation. Be save all of you.
In my mid twenties without any training before I once rode 130km in one day on a young brother's bike with a single speed and 24" wheels (Ereliukas). I ate sandwiches with meat, drank about two bottles of lemonade for a whole ride and same evening rode another 10km to lake for a swim. I wish I could drop some decades off my back! EDIT: km. That were mere kilometers not miles.
Err... Sorry for bringing up the topic again... Do it with a recumbent. If there are serious climbs, ride a trike with very short gears, and clamp your feet quite forward on pedals. You can take all the time you like and keep smiling
Research your route and choose something that is relatively flat. A few years ago I did my first century ride. It was on my bucket list and the time just never seemed right. I ended up having a free weekend but unfortunately hasn't trained much for it. I couldn't find anyone that could join me so I made sure that my equipment was in good shape, researched the best routes, ensured that I had good nutrition before and during the ride, and took advantage of my aero bars. I left in the morning with a full phone charge and checked in with my wife at regular intervals. I finished my 113 mile ride tired but smiling. Conversely, I once bonked on a 30 mile ride because I hadn't eaten all day. Don't underestimate the preparation that goes into a long ride in addition to the the physical training.
I did my first 100+KM (112 kms or 70 Miles) with 3 months of preparation. My first day ride was 6 miles on March 3,2020 and gradually increased speed and distance. I would say it was not that difficult. I had shoulder pain for a day and then it was normal. Planning to complete my first 100 miles in July 2020
Another tip, make sure your batteries are freshly charged. About a month after getting my new bike with Di2 I rode a century my club sponsors each year, but did not check its charge. About 60 miles in the front derailleur quit working and then about 10 miles from the finish, which contains a massively steep hill, my bike became a fixie. Of course this occurred at almost the same spot the event's photographer had set up shop and I had to struggle mightily to stay in the saddle long enough for him to take his shot, just before stopping to push the bike to the summit.
Ride London to Surrey 100 miles tomorrow. I did 22 miles on the 28th of may and 40 mins on an exercise bike last week. It's for charity so I'll try and complete it. My plan: eat well, hydrate well, and pace myself. I'm not sure how my ass will feel though! I'm 93 KG so dread hills.
Did 100 miles on zwift yesterday. Took 5h8min with 5h3min moving time. 3rd one ive done and first one indoor. The other time i didnt have a powermeter and staying in zone too nearly the whole time helped. It still wasnt easy but felt more controlled the outdoor on feel with no idea about zones. I also ate lots of gummiebears. 😁
I too would be nervous - 160km?! Here's a tip, go to a country that is modem enough to use metric system and do a 100 *kilometre ride instead. Save yourself some mileage, energy, visit another part of the world and get kudos for doing a Gran Fondo.
I got those SIS gels lately and was quite surprised at the taste. They are the first gels I've had that don't feel like I'm stuffing a fistful of dirt in my mouth.
I actually did this about 10 years ago. Bristol to London. Zero training, drunk the night before, 1 hour late and didn’t see anyone really until Newbury...finished. Couldn’t walk for 2 days and my arse was bleeding. Never again.
GRUMP - did Ride 101 with my brother-in-law the rugby playing, hard drinking lad (I actually really like him). ‘Anybody can ride 100 miles on a bike’. He bonked at 60ish miles and steadily died for the next 40 miles. He finished but looked me dead in the eye at the end and told me ‘That was the single worst experience of my life - never again’. He now does the iron man every year. Good lad!
Cool story bro
Now imagine running 100 miles
Good on ya mate.
@@braydonstone2049 Goggins did it with no training. Had rhabdomyolysis 😂.
Easy. Ride 100 and lay down for a week.
Just don't forget to shave your legs.
lie down because you won't be able to sit.... or stand up
😂🥵
That's what I did, ride from Long Beach to San Diego on $90 Huffy hybrid road bike.
@@KandiKloverAs a $90 Huffy owner myself I admire your bravery. I wouldn't dare riding more than 35km at a time on mine.
I did my first 40 mile rile a few days ago...
I am going to attempt my first 50 mile ride next week...
How did it go?
Got to be up to 80 miles now?
The longest I have been so far by myself is 44 miles.
how did it go?
The above advice from GCN is Excellent but here’s more: If you can ride a somewhat hilly 25 miler and not be too thrashed after, you can eek out the average Century Charity Ride. Just ride it a notch down slower on the flats, 2 notches on the climbs. I’d advise you have a Compact Crank or even a Triple Crank and if your RD has the capacity, install the LARGEST cassette the Bike will allow, a 32t, 34t, 36t (Short or Medium cage RD), a 40t or 42t (Long cage RD with RD Hanger extender “Wolf Tooth Roadlink”). Crawl the climbs spinning at at least 60 rpms Minimum in lowest gear, any cadence slower and you’re beating your leg muscles up. Keep your cadence at at least 70 rpms climbing if it’s comfortable and the hill is not too steep to were you run out of gears. Don’t overspin the flats, 80-90 rpms cadence is most efficient for long distances to conserve energy. Below 75rpms will wear your legs out, so will over 90rpms and also redline your cardiovascular system and you’ll bonk. NO quick accelerations from stops and NO sprinting. Get a good night sleep, Eat a hearty breakfast an hour before the ride, stretch frequently and massage the neck and legs throughout the ride. If your stomach can handle it, take a 50/50 mix of Motrin and Tylenol before the ride after breakfast and every 4 hrs. throughout the ride. 500 mg. Tylenol with 400 mg. Motrin will work wonders to numb the pain, but take it on a full stomach. DON’T take Motrin if you have stomach sensitivities to it. Just take 1000 mg. Tylenol instead. If your stomach is VERY sensitive don’t take Tylenol either. CLIF Bars work GREAT when you start to bonk, so carry about 3 of them in your jersey pocket. Carry at least #2 27-32 oz. LARGE Water Bottles, hydrate at least 40 oz./Hr. and kept refilling your bottles full at rest stops. If you ride with a fitter partner INSIST to draft behind him on flats, and INSIST he slow down if you get winded and tell him to WAIT for you at the top of climbs. Bring at least #2 spare inner tubes and a Good MANUAL Mini-pump, NOT CO2 Pump. You SHOULD be able to limp out a Century if in sub par shape and cycle semi frequently say 2 times/wk. averaging 35 miles/week, with at least 1 day a month Moderate Hill climbing. You’re gonna HURT the next few days though. Stretch like crazy and Book a good 1 Hr. Massage the following day and rest for a week after. Riding a Century in Sub Fit Condition will PUNISH you!
This is some real advice right here
Make sure you're lubed up and you don't wanna be too soft or too hard...
How do you guys keep a straight face?
They're [former] pro's
You take your shit at home thats how.
oh, he surely lubricates his bum. his denials speak volumes!
They’re not 13 year olds
@@paulblack6288 Bet you're fun at parties
First year back into biking I did 25km, then 50km now 100km! Also dropped 65lbs along the way. Riding with a partner really helps me! This is the first year I'll have one :) love your channel and tips!
Jenn Comishen Music Comments like that show your will to not give up and keep going to increase your max potential. I have not really lost that much weight cycling as most of my body weight is already on my lower torso. My legs did increase in muscle size through since I am always power cycling doing 20 km sprints back and forth. I also run as well and combine cycling with running to test my body.
Nice- but come back when it's 100 miles buddy
Way to go! 👍
@@danfuerthgillis4483 that's amazing! Good for you :). I was obese when I started cycling and am now a "perfect" (healthy) weight for my height. That's the only reason I lost so much weight. Good luck :)
@@dunkno1660 Like I said, I just got back into cycling.. So I've been upping the kms as I go.. also because of where I live, all of my races or marathons are kms, and there aren't a whole lot that do 160km specifically 😂😂 kind of an odd number. I'm actually shooting for 200km my next ride, which will be 125 miles so 🤷♀️. Just here to learn and have fun. You help others grow through positivity, not negativity 😎🚴♀️✌️
On a long ride, I spend 0.5 miles out of the saddle for every 4.5 miles I ride in the saddle. This gives my butt a break and exercises my leg muscles in a different way, thus making it more tolerable. All my long rides are done alone, I can set the pace as I think fit and take breaks when I need. I agree with keeping breaks short.
Don't forget to drink plenty of water.
Put on the GCN kit and everyone thinks you know what your doing, you always get a fun group and the 100 miles just melts away. Worked for me!
I completed my first century yesterday. Alone, hardly any training at all. My next longest ride was 40 miles and that was last year. Been on a handful of 20 mile rides this year but that's it.
Dont do it alone. Thats the best possible. A few stupid jokes on the road make the whole experience much better :)
Or you can listen to funny podcasts like "Car Talk" or "Stuff You Should Know." Or stream any of Netflix's many comedy specials :)
@@ArtzFenix stuff you should know is the bomb
Listen to a Dr. Jordan Peterson lecture on a 40 mile ride.
I only ride alone. I don't want to hold up better riders, and I don't want worse holding me up. I never ride side by side on public highways and I hate small talk with gay men.
Meh. Depends on your fitness level and drive. I've done most of my 100 kilometre rides on my own (which I know is less then 100 miles) & this is how I built up mental strength and riding my own pace and rhythm. Music is critical for my focus.
Just do 100 km instead of 100 miles.
Just do 100 cm instead of 100m
@@ackack8752 I set out to do 100mm and, when I finished, I felt so strong I did another 100mm. Problem is, I wasn't really thinking and now I was 200mm from home, exhausted and I had to get back somehow.
Great advice
I did my first 100 mile on my known roads around my home, in a star topology, so I gave the possibility to cancel it anytime. It was not necessary at the end.
Smart! I'm going to borrow your idea.
Yes, we did something similar. Basically, we were never too far from home.
We did a smaller 100 mile charity ride this way earlier this year. The base/SAG was in the center and there were 5 10 mile routes, which also were reversed so it was 100 mile total to ride all routes. Makes it easy to have an event w/minimal staff.
did the same with 30km run... draw a big half circle around your house and you could run back within 7km at any time...
I think *pacing* was the most important point for a century cyclist who is short on prep. -- Here are a few of more suggestions: (1) Plan to leave early. If your century is an organized event, be at the start line at the earliest allowable time. That way you'll have more time to complete the route and will be better-positioned to maintain a reasonable pace for your fitness level. (2) Each time you stop, take a few minutes to stretch. It will help you avoid muscle cramps. (3) Be extra-careful to stay hydrated. Since you're not at your best fitness level, dehydration will take a greater toll. (4) Familiarize yourself with the route beforehand. If possible, enter it along with turn-by directions into your cycling computer the day before. The last thing you want to do is get lost and be forced to expend energy you don't have.
Also have a charger for your Garmin as it will likely fail on you near the end and you'll lose precious Strava stats
buy a wahoo instead 😁
Most Garmins have a battery saving mode. Pressing the screen will bring up the data and then it till disappear.
Then all that's left to is do is find a pace you feel comfortable with then draft behind someone who is going similar speed. 👍
Garmin lasts for quite a few hours after it says battery is low.
Just did my first 100k in Rotterdam a couple weeks ago. Had friends in the group who were much more experienced and fast, so it was a much higher pace than I war ready for. Kept with them until maybe the last 5k. Pretty proud overall, 3:50 total time, pretty exhausted at the end. Good times!
"I can't stress how important lubricant is for your bum"
Wise words.
Glad an independent person can confirm!
😋
I did my first and longest bike tour of 180km a few weeks back, total riding time was about 9hrs, the complete trip lasted 14hrs as I visited two lakes, went for a swim and got surprised by a summer storm....
I went alone and on my way back the last 40km were excruciating, my bum was hurting and my motivation was almost gone, so I had to dig deep and push myself hard....
Eventually I made it home ^^ would do it again, but with better gear next time...
I am Trekking bike rider and really love doing it, but sadly its hard to find friends to come along on long rides, but I'll keep pushing myself to get better 😁
The hardest part is that you haven't conditioned your ass for that long of a ride.
Chamois butter for the win!
How to ride 100 miles when you haven't trained: don't.
Cycling should be a positive experience and as anything worth doing, you're worth doing it right. My friend tagged along with me for a 50 mile ride once with no training and he was just miserable because he hadn't prepared. His butt was sore, his legs were killing him, we couldn't set any kind of consistent pace and it did detract a little from the rest of the group's enjoyment too. And by the end of the day, it was great he finished, but he could barely move for the next week. Also it rained the whole day, and having to go slow in rain, extending the length of the ride in that kind of weather just was very little fun at all. Now he's barely out on his bike, doesn't really enjoy it and is totally resistant to doing a similar length of ride ever again, despite my urging him that he found it so tough because he did next to no training and that with training, his butt would've endured, his legs would've still had something left in them by the end and he could've focused on enjoying the day and the chat in the group instead, as he enjoyed riding shorter distances with me.
Put in the effort. If you don't feel you can do it, don't agree to do it. You'll only end up either failing, or hurting yourself in the attempt to succeed, and the overall experience will be no fun at all. Takes time, but putting in the training really is rewarding as on the day you can enjoy it, know it's within your capabilities, and you can even push and set goals for yourself and gain a really good understanding of where your limitations physically are at. Just frees you up to have a more enjoyable day. Plus you look like a complete badass on Strava completing a long ride in a good time with a good pace, you'll feel even more badass completing one and beating some PRs over that kind of distance if you've done one before. Riding 100 is both easy and difficult. You can't just rock up and expect it to be easy and fun, but with training it can be a good challenge, a very feel good milestone and a fun day of riding, potentially going to new places if it's a point A to point B sort of ride and not a round trip.
Completely agree. One small thing, though: "training" sounds like a lot of work and hassle and, honestly, I don't think you need to "train" for a 50-mile ride. "Practice" sounds a lot friendlier and is plenty for that distance. Telling your friend that he needs to train to do 50 miles might be putting him off almost as much as the bad memories of last time.
Disagree. It's more about your attitude or your friend's attitude more than anything.
I've done centuries with friends who are fit, but not cyclists. Yeah, their butt hurts, yeah, they can cramp up, but their attitude towards it always saw them to the end with great enjoyment.
If you're the type of person who finds some struggle to be an addition to a great adventure then you'll finish, or even not finish, in high spirits. Conversely I've done centuries with people that are always disappointed in their time, how that one guy didn't pace line correctly, etc. etc. and though there was no struggle, it was miserable.
Know your body of course, but remember to have fun otherwise why are you doing it anyway?
I'm inclined to agree because cycling 15 miles alone can be a workout itself, and 100 miles is not exactly a picnic. For the inexperienced, that could mean 10hrs of cycling. It does entirely depend on your general fitness, your state of mind, and also the route that you take. If you have good conditioning, you can probably go a lot further, even if you haven't cycled in a while. Everyone is different, so I think this video is more aimed at those who are sporty and enthusiastic but uncertain about being able to achieve it
Llama__ Absolutely 100% correct. People who don't regularly do long rides need to realize that even if they try to cruise along at 15mph, a 100 mile ride will take them at least 6 1/2 hours of riding time. Inexperienced dietary mistakes often are, drinking too much electrolytes and not enough plain water, stopping too long and overeating at aid stations. Often overlooked is not bringing sunscreen as most century rides start off early in the morning, but end past noon in the heat of the day. Be realistic, a 6 1/2 hr. 100 mile ride is not a walk in the park.
This video had some good tips but I agree: if you haven't consistently rode 10 milers I wouldn't try to bang out a 50 miler and especially not a Century.
Food! Before, during, and after! Can't stress this enough. I've never done 100 miles, but when I did 100km without training and with not enough food I ended up feeling horrible.
You're right, I was out of shape, 6 months without proper ridings, the forecast for the Sunday was perfect then I decided to ride 100km, did four stops to get drinks and food, completed it feeling quite good actually. One thing to add to the list is the mindset I'd say. As I said it was a perfect weather, I really wanted to ride, so I said myself 'I'll do it' and did it.
Definitely agree. My first ride over 100km I took too many of a bar, thought it would be ok, hated them by mid way. Now I pack a variety for long rides with real food and sports products. I like rice balls
Completely disagree with you about food. I have done many 30, 40, 50 and a couple of 65 mile rides fasted. I will be doing a 100 mile ride fasted as well. Once your get your body fat adapted it is easy.
@@Tanguero1__Read the title of this video. It's how to ride 100 miles without training. Riding fasted requires training one's physiology to adapt to that energy relay. I'm also sure you have a specific dietary regimen to support your methods and that takes training to adapt to. This video is addressing riders who may have signed up for a century ride and haven't trained properly to ride that distance. I'm pretty sure these same folks aren't going to take the time to learn fasted riding techniques in order to do a charity ride.
@@flyingturtle4559 Fair point, you are correct, it does take a specific dietary regimen.
I didn't read all the comments but in the video they didn't really talk about hydration. I think that is very important too.
Don’t forget strength training is very important too for endurance and recovery . I did my first one last year in 7 hours. 12 months of watt bike training and weights really made it possible and enjoyable.
I signed up to do Ride London 100 last year and almost immediately was daunted. My bike and I are both old and heavy, 25 years bike and 66 years me. I spent 4 months training and lost 13kg. I did everything you suggested. I caught the wheel of a lady about my age but she looked more serious (good gear and bike) than I and followed her for about 20 miles. I meant to thank her and apologies for not taking a turn (I wasn’t able) but did not … sorry. It was a great day, I raised a lot of money for my charity.
Q
I did coast-to-coast last year with virtually no training whatsoever I was amazed that I finished the ride even though I spent 16 hours in the saddle but what really did help was meeting other riders along the way that helped push me along as I helped them along and carrying wet weather gear I carried a light rain coat with me and that really came in handy towards the end of the day when the Sun had dropped the weather got cooler going down some descent the raincoat kept the chill off the chest glad I carried it
Yes, water-proof usually means wind-proof, which can be a huge help even in the dry.
1977 or 78 rode 160 or so miles in one long day. Aspen to Vail Colorado via Independence Pass thinking I would stay in a motel in Vail not knowing there was a Gerald Ford Invitational Golf Tournament and no rooms available. So rode down valley to Glenwood Springs, getting there about 8 p.m. Next day 40 miles back to Aspen. Another long ride was Rutland Vermont to East Windsor, Connecticut 150 miles in 12 hours with an hour nap in Brattleboro. Now I'm 65 and 40 miles kills me.
I'm training for a 40 mile charity ride/race in April. I just recently recovered from a torn MCL, small tibial and femoral fracture, was given full recovery status in early February. The longest ride I've done is 30 miles so far. I'm nervous because I've never ridden that long or that far before, but this video helped ease some of my anxiety about it, thank you
Yep I’m doing the RideLondon 100 in August in aid of Dogs Trust. Very excited and apprehensive at the same time. 👍🏻😃it will be my first century effort😎
The RideLondon is great, just don't over do it in the Surrey hills and you'll be sure to nail it.
I am also doing this ride but in Aid of Teenage Cancer Trust. Will be my first century ride as well. I aim to build up my rides as i progress in my training this Friday I will be doing a 50 mile ride and will then aim at 75miles over the next month and aim for 100 in the coming months before.
It'll be like nothing you've done before, and it'll be the best feeling at the end of the day. You'll likely never forget your first century! :)
Justin Mihalos I cant wait to be honest. Quite excited really
Kelvin Bastow, you should be! The key for me was pacing, with food being a close second. If you can do 75 without destroying yourself, you'll tackle 100 easily. I'm doing a 100+ in May, a 50 in June, and another 100 in August. The August ride will be my first supported century, the others being solo ventures. Good luck to you, and enjoy yourself!
Perfect timing. I'm participating in the Garneau Gran Fondo this Sunday coming up. It's my first bike race I've signed up for and the longest distance I have ever rode. I've been traveling a lot and I havent been training like I should have. I definitely like the idea of splitting it into 4 parts. Thanks for posting this when you did!
🍀
@@ArtzFenix thank you for that!
4 ex-pros roadbikers VS me (on a xc mtb) without training. I'm crying on our way home 🤣 #126kms
I remember that when I started I attempted a Gran Fondo with little to no training. Surprisingly, I managed to do it. What kept me going were the landscapes and having a positive attitude... Then I got a flat tyre in the middle of nowhere. Haha.
Data driven video subjects? GCN killing it!!
After such a ride without training you will feel like having fever at the end of the day. No worries it´s normal, that your body temperature rises.
It's even worse on cold winter days, even if you wear warm enough clothes you will still be breathing in the cold air and you will really feel that at after the long exercise.
My first 100 mile ride was without training and entirely unintentional. Went out to do a 75 mile ride with ~7k ft in elevation. Coming home the road was closed due to a fallen power line. I was forced to backtrack and ended up doing a 100 mile ride with 10k in climbing finishing in the dark at 10 PM due to not starting the ride until 2. Fortunately, I was prepared with extra water, food, a coat, and a light.
Yeah, that kind of doesn't count here. They mean someone who;s never done any thing close to 100 miles. In which case it will be a BIG deal to do.
Someone doing 75 miles regualarly is hardly in the newbie camp. A 100 mile ride on the flats will take newbies 8 hours or more!!
@@cecilhenry9908 I wasn't regularly doing 75 mile rides. That was the first ride I had done of that length. Before that, the longest I had done was ~50 miles.
Sometimes your inner Fred is your best Friend.
@@andrewnelson3276 how many water bottles is that, 6-8?
Wouldn't recommend riding 100mile with no training but if you did maybe crack it on a sportive. Organised, marshalled roads, mech support, feed stations and support of other riders plus it will have a fun factor
And a broom wagon!!
I'm doing it tomorrow for prostrate cancer research centre. I've done no training apart from 40 mins on an exercise bike last week. It's for charity but my own fault for being lazy
@@UnseenSpirit you'll be alright... I accidently did 70. Didn't phase me and I'm by no means fit.
I did a 100km hill sportive, but have pulled out of an upcoming 140km hills event because I've been moving house and prepping to sell, so all my weekends have been spent painting, gardening, tidying etc and I haven't touched my bike for weeks. I can feel I've lost my fitness, and I'm currently exhausted. I'll just do the event next year :-) 100km+ is a long way to suffer if you're not in shape.
Definitely don't work in a group going to too fast for you. You'll regret it in the later stages when you're broken and riding on your own. Never again 🤣.
So true I had a fast mtb mate, always killed me trying to keep with him up and down the hills , the differenceca couple of mph over time not be underestimated , I used to go out for solo training sessions so I could keep up 🤣
@@Foxtrottangoabc Yep, that's the problem with every sport. Getting a partner with few years of experience ahead of you, is huge pain for both. If you are "late bloomer" to the sport, it's better to be solo at least the first year. Only then you can find a partner and a way to compromise. Otherwise the difference is just huge. I think this channel is too biased and these pro bikers just can't realize the capacity of the average person out there. 100 miles without training - absurd. Keeping up with people doing this regularly - absurd. Start solo, start short, start on flat, and keep increasing the difficulty.
Yes, split the ride up.
I road from Milton Keynes to Brighton fully loaded, the route I took was about 150 miles, so to get over the painful thoughts, I just split it up an into 30 mile rides and I was easy.
And I made it in nearly half the time I expected.
WTG
Twenty miles per day for five days.
Looking at doing my first century at the start of June, however at the moment I'm recovering from a total hip replacement of my left hip which I broke at the end of January.
Hoping to start putting some miles in on a turbo trainer sometime next week.
The route I'll be doing is in 3 legs 16 miles, then the main part is a 63 mile (100 km) charity ride then the remaking 21 miles to come home
🍀
How did it go? How’s your hip now?
Good timing on this video, as I'm doing my first century on Saturday and I've been off the bike for over a week because I had a cold.
Got my first century ride for this year at the end of next month (CarTen).
Sadly due to really bad weather and a poor work life ratios I've done hardly any training. The good news is I've done it a few times before and I've been cycling for years so have retained a fair level of fitness... Your video is bang on apart from the few well earned beers at the end...or mineral water if that's ya thing 🙃
If I ever do a Century there better be some Vodka & Coke waiting for me for the ride home. And no, God willing I won't be driving.
I would like to add that riders should be familiar with the route, carry some cash and ID, make sure that the phone is charged and let friends and family know that they are going out for a long ride. Solo riders might want to bring along a bike lock in case they need to run into a store or a restroom. Practice with tube changes and mini pump/CO2 practice before the effort will make a mechanical much less traumatic. Try to find a balance of carrying too little and carrying too much. Eat and drink before you feel hungry or thirsty. Two 750ml bottles are better than one bladder bike pack for this sort of ride. Refill them at parks or gas stations. Centuries get easier with practice. I can't believe how much I worried about doing my first couple of solo century rides.
There's a great cycling nutrition video with Heather Schwartz on here. Opened my eyes to the importance of proper nutrition & hydration. ruclips.net/video/eeIA261_gSw/видео.html
I'm Gunna try the 40km x4 approach. Alittle boring perhaps but really being on the bike is always a joy. On a down day just watch the mood increase. Mobile Psychologist.
We normally split it in 3 sections. First 30+ miles coffee stop, second 30+ lunch stop, then another coffee stop. And regroupings, so you get mini breaks as well. But we're not racing, just ride.
Thanks for the advice.. I booked a place on the 312 next month and due to poor health haven't trained properly.. The last time was hellish but I did find salt tablets helpful to stop cramping..
I cycled 123mi yesterday for fun. It was awesome (mostly flat) windy, isolated. Dates and apricots, Sprite, lots of water.
I bonked HARD on my first century at about mile 80, the looks I got rumugging through the candy aisle at the gas station were classic. I have done a couple since then, though none since my knee replacement. That is next springs goal.
i did my first hundred spontaneously with some friends who were avid cyclists, we ended up doing 130 miles, before i had never done long rides, i did a max of about 20 miles in a day, but i am on the rowing team at my school so i was in shape. Went out and did it on a hybrid in a t-shirt, i loved it and now i work at a shop and ride in some capacity almost every day, amazing sport, however i do miss rowing, can’t wait for the seasons to start
At first look I thought "Wow! Bell can actually make some pretty helmets" Then I noticed this was filmed with the old Kask ones...
Thanks guys! Gearing up for my first century and want to go into it as prepared as possible.
Woohoo, you're gonna crush it Ethan!
Well, I have done more or less that on multiple occasions, solo. I cannot say I am a well-trained rider (especially early on in the year), avereging some 5 or 6 160 km+ rides a year (one of them usually a ca 200km ride). And from my own experience I can confirm most of what they say. Much of the whole thing is mental. A few things I have done: that helped: (1)set intermediate goals, and if you know the landscape set those stops at landmarks or after arduous/boring stretches. The rest is a reward, and you can mentally recharge with a more fun stretch of road. (2) Check the weather, and if possible make sure you have a tail-wind for as much of the ride as you can. (3) Make sure there is some kind of reward at the end. (4) On the road itself, try and look for 'targets'/'landmarks' to aim for (akin to cycling from lamp post to lamp post).
Just rode 100 mile ride yesterday over the Pennines, 10k feet of climbing in total. 27‰ gradients. My lungs and thighs have popped
You mean 27% (i.e., 27/100)? 27‰ (i.e., 27/1000) which is only 2.7% and that shouldn't be too much of a problem!
@@beeble2003 I'm not 100% but the math is pythagrus theory and the hypotenuse of the angle of 45c being 100% so I think its slightly more than the 2%. Or I could just rely on the "thigh busting lung popping" theory which is 100% accurate 😄
@@LUCYDIAMONDBOXER1 I'm just pointing out that you used the permille symbol instead of percent. 10000ft of climbing is a tough ride.
@@beeble2003 ah I see what you mean, a typo intended it to be %. Yea a training ride for Mount Tiede in April👍
@@LUCYDIAMONDBOXER1 Sounds awesome!
This video was perfectly timed for me. It's made me feel better about my ride coming up in a weeks time which I've been worrying about. I moved abroad last year and training during winter is impossible where I live.
Thanks again GCN!
Doing 60miles (Arran) at the end of May. Been managing 20-30k cycles, but not upped it to near the full distance yet. I've 45 and only started cycling last October, doing 10-20k's a few times a week. Getting into it more and more, cant wait for this summer.
Start between 7-8am after a good nights sleep. Expect it to take all day. Take all day! Don't race. Enjoy the time and the breaks. Choose a loop route and not a simple out and back. Or a straight route to a friends house.
Last year I did 65 miles without any training. I couldn’t find my padded shorts so had to go without. The pain in my bum was in was unbelievable as 50% was bumpy gravel tracks and I spent a lot of time out of the saddle. Never again. Glad that I’ve been cycling much more this year.
I'm cycling 340 miles no training on Monday and I'm watching this the Saturday with a couple of days to go
It's funny because I've just done it yesterday. Would have been handy! My first trip on my first road bike(Cannondale Synapse)!
I have a Synapse. I recently added more gears, gel under the wraps, different rise on stem, wider tires, new pedals, new seat and it's made an already good bike so much more comfortable. I'm training for a 150 miles. 4 more weeks.
All very good advice but the most important is go you own pace! If you try to keep up with someone else you will definitely burn out before you reach the end. Some determination, willpower, water and nutrition with that and you are good.
Couple points missed. Both route related.
Firstly, ride out into the wind returning with wind on your back.
Secondly, your first century ride should be as flat as possible.
Of course if the century ride is a sportive this is not possible, but if it's not take time designing the route; and if the wind should switch direction the day before - simply reverse the route.
Bike fit , nice weather, easy gears and a flat course will help
You need food, drinks and beers can take some of the edge off. It's really good for you after you did like 3/4 of the distance you're doin
I did my first 50 miles, without any training on 14.5 mph avg speed with 1365 ft hike.
I attempted this solo in January in perfectly flat Florida. I didn’t bring aero stuff with me on my trip. I knew at 50mi it wasn’t going to happen. I still did 70, and it was 7 miles my longest ride ever. It was the first week back after some time off too.
Awesome short clip. Good and simple. I split long rides (+150kms) up into sections, such as; important main junction, mountain top, village fountain etc. rather than into kilometre defined lengths. Oh and by the way, please give your psi in bars too. Thanks!
i used to do a century a month. tires at 110. I was always alone. longest practice rides were always one hour. Food was the key, especially early and often. felt terrible for three days.
130 miles here in July so far.
Planning on my first Century this weekend. Morning temp will be 38F (3C). Pray for me!
Perfect temp! Might want insulated water bottles so your water isn't too cold, but good luck!
Gator ears. They work great. How did the century go?
@@brannmacfinnchad9056 Thanks for asking. It went beautifully. A little rain at the start, but the back 50 miles flew by.
Thanks lads. I'm doing one soon.
Mix of real food and gel packs. Also, caffeine for the 2nd half!
Coffee is life!
Doing my 1st century this year, but will definitely be training for it! Appreciate the tips though (except shaving the legs, cant do it!!!!)
Don't bother, unless you're flying along you'll look a total numpty
Know your route - that way you can strategise your fuelling/food stops (ie. 1st gel at village x, 2nd gel/bar at town y etc.) and do the same with taking on fluids, pace your efforts properly and you can break the route/climbs up into bite size sections. Unless there’s a nasty climb at the end of the route you will get a massive morale boost when you get over that last climb 10-15 miles before the end of the event.
I’ve got cimla hill to tackle after having broken myself on the black mountain, crai pass, devils elbow, penderyn moors, rhigos and Bwlch, right at the end of the 138mile Dragon ride this June. Moral of the story - pick your 100+ miles route carefully!☺️
GREAT info, I've got a 60 mile gravel grinder coming up in 2 weeks. Having trouble getting enough miles on my legs and butt before then.
100 miles in a day is tough for anyone. Hydration, food, and pacing is essential. I haven't done a century ride yet, but have done a metric century once (62 miles). I would run out of daylight before reaching 100 miles, untrained.
How many hours were u in the saddle?
I did a 50 miler on my tod and cycle probably half that distance once a week if that. I stopped a couple of times for a pint and it was a great day out. I felt pretty fresh at the end.
once did 120km overweight, out of shape and riding a cheapo MTB HT! definitely doable haha I now commute on a rigid fork disc brake hybrid and for my 700 x 32s i put 50/60 PSI Front/Rear and i find the ride's comfort level smack in between a MTB HT and a 23-25mm full blown Road Bike! More importantly i enjoy and want to ride more ^^
I started active cycling this year in april and i ride about 4-5 times a week between 30 und 50 miles and once every 2 Weeks i go for long distance rides. The first time i rode 100 miles was on a 40 years old Olmo Gran-Prix Bike where i lost my gears after 70 miles. My goal for this year is a full TDF distance in the Alps with 145 Miles and do it under 10 hours (Systemweight=240 lbs) ;)
Check the weather: did that yesterday. Forecast said it was going to be 23 °C, no chance of rain. So didn't take any waterproofs (planned distance was around 130 kms).
By the afternoon it was lashing down, no chance of stopping..
Did a 100 mile 6 years ago on an average road bike, Fuji. 60 miles was well in track, the rest 40 looked physically demanding as day got hotter and hills and elevations also went up. Overall, goal was to complete, so broke it to 75, 90mile as intermediate targets post 60 mile. I was able to complete it, total time was 8 and half hrs of saddle time. I sat in bath tub for 30 minutes and slept. Next day was not bad overall, I think I survived.
Much later did a 75mile, did so much better. Love to do it again sometime, nice endurance challenge.
riding a 50-mile loop twice is probably the best. makes it easy for grabbing more food, water and a bathroom break. eat and drink during (and before) the ride, and take the first 50 easy. i'd recommend starting early, especially in the summer.
I wish I had known about this before my first Century ride.
All I took was Gatorade powder, Gatorade chews, and didn't know that I should take my time at the check-in points.
I just rolled in, checked in, grabbed some more water/Gatorade, and got back on the bike enroute to the next check-in point.
LOL !!!
@, yeah. I know that now.
I was cramping (legs and stomach, as well as hands and arms) so bad at the mile 80 check point.
But, it was all my fault, since I treated those check points as a Formula 1 pit stop....get in, resupply, get out.
I mentally knew that I was going to finish the 100 miles. My body just wanted me to do it a bit slower. LOL !!!
Having been in the military (and, I guess, quite a bit personally stubborn as well) and having completed several difficult courses (not to mention, almost having lost my leg, and my life on several occasions during my several combat tours) made me focus and just not quit or stop.
I was sore for days, I think about a week, but I just didn't quit.
Now, I know better.
I prepare better. I plan better. I ride better. Smarter.
I have done 12 other 100+ milers in the 9 yrs since starting cycling, and doing that first Century ride. I have gone from 298 lbs down to 240-ish in that time, started racing crits, and still do several personal/training 100+ mile rides (just for fun, and to see new areas).
But, now, I do it for fun, and enjoy them.
The first thing he says is "Sound familiar?"
I had to replay it a few times to figure that out.
Did that from Oxford to Maidstone, bump its really hurt next couple of of days, however next days Calais, Belgium, holand, Germany, Poland, Czech Republic, Austria and then the best, my opinion, part from Vienna upstream river to Germany, and stop on border with France. Bike trek fx2, no preparation. Be save all of you.
Oh, Good!! Some motivation to sign before you are ready... makes a world of difference, for noobs like me
In my mid twenties without any training before I once rode 130km in one day on a young brother's bike with a single speed and 24" wheels (Ereliukas). I ate sandwiches with meat, drank about two bottles of lemonade for a whole ride and same evening rode another 10km to lake for a swim. I wish I could drop some decades off my back!
EDIT: km. That were mere kilometers not miles.
Err... Sorry for bringing up the topic again... Do it with a recumbent. If there are serious climbs, ride a trike with very short gears, and clamp your feet quite forward on pedals. You can take all the time you like and keep smiling
100 miles is my warm up ;). 215 mile race this Saturday
Going to try a Charity metric century on 3/31, after a week off hiking in Colombia. Should be interesting.
🍀
I love the frame of that blue trek
good advice, especially with the idea of breaks with 25 mi segments.
Research your route and choose something that is relatively flat. A few years ago I did my first century ride. It was on my bucket list and the time just never seemed right. I ended up having a free weekend but unfortunately hasn't trained much for it. I couldn't find anyone that could join me so I made sure that my equipment was in good shape, researched the best routes, ensured that I had good nutrition before and during the ride, and took advantage of my aero bars. I left in the morning with a full phone charge and checked in with my wife at regular intervals. I finished my 113 mile ride tired but smiling. Conversely, I once bonked on a 30 mile ride because I hadn't eaten all day. Don't underestimate the preparation that goes into a long ride in addition to the the physical training.
Love it,fantastic video.Thanks guys.I am going to share it with lots of riders.Cheers
I did my first 100+KM (112 kms or 70 Miles) with 3 months of preparation. My first day ride was 6 miles on March 3,2020 and gradually increased speed and distance. I would say it was not that difficult. I had shoulder pain for a day and then it was normal. Planning to complete my first 100 miles in July 2020
Another tip, make sure your batteries are freshly charged. About a month after getting my new bike with Di2 I rode a century my club sponsors each year, but did not check its charge. About 60 miles in the front derailleur quit working and then about 10 miles from the finish, which contains a massively steep hill, my bike became a fixie. Of course this occurred at almost the same spot the event's photographer had set up shop and I had to struggle mightily to stay in the saddle long enough for him to take his shot, just before stopping to push the bike to the summit.
Ride London to Surrey 100 miles tomorrow.
I did 22 miles on the 28th of may and 40 mins on an exercise bike last week.
It's for charity so I'll try and complete it.
My plan: eat well, hydrate well, and pace myself.
I'm not sure how my ass will feel though!
I'm 93 KG so dread hills.
did it this summer - Solothurn to Geneva. 180km or a bit more than 100 miles :>
Guilty as charged. Did the Triple Bypass here in Colorado. 120 miles, 10k feet of climbing.... 😬 Made it, but it was tough
Did 100 miles on zwift yesterday. Took 5h8min with 5h3min moving time. 3rd one ive done and first one indoor. The other time i didnt have a powermeter and staying in zone too nearly the whole time helped. It still wasnt easy but felt more controlled the outdoor on feel with no idea about zones. I also ate lots of gummiebears. 😁
Can't argue with any of it except that all those strategies are applicable for those of us that have trained for that 100 miler too.
I too would be nervous - 160km?! Here's a tip, go to a country that is modem enough to use metric system and do a 100 *kilometre ride instead. Save yourself some mileage, energy, visit another part of the world and get kudos for doing a Gran Fondo.
I got those SIS gels lately and was quite surprised at the taste. They are the first gels I've had that don't feel like I'm stuffing a fistful of dirt in my mouth.
Gustavo Sanchez try OTE