How to survive long rides

how to survive reallllly long rides

5 Tips Every Female Cyclist Should Know Before Going the Distance

Whether you're riding your first century (100km+) or taking on a weekend bikepacking adventure, long rides are no joke. But don’t worry—we’ve got your back (and your backside). Here's your no-fuss guide to surviving (and even enjoying) reaalllllly long rides on your bike.


1. Consistent Training

The best way to survive a long ride? Practice. Be regular with your training and ride progressively longer as you go. Building up to long rides takes time, for both your muscles and your bum to get used to being in the saddle for so long.

Pro Tip: For help with your training, use a guide like our Century Rides Training Guide - a 12-week program created by a certified cycling coach to help you structure your training, week-by-week.

2. Comfy Gear

Since you're in it for the long haul, you might as well get comfy. Great gear goes a long way after hours on the road. Choose pieces that are breathable and designed for endurance. That means:

  • padded cycling shorts or bibs
  • a breathable jersey (and on especially sunny rides, choose one with fabrics that are UPF 50+ sun-protective)
  • plan to bring layers like vests or packable cycling jackets for rest stops and chilly descents

3. Fuel & Hydrate, A lot!!

Seriously, do both often and consistently throughout the ride (and also before and after). Some general guidelines to follow:

  • You should aim for a 750 ml bottle/hour while riding
  • Eat every 30-45 minutes on 2hr+ rides
  • Aim for 60-80g of carbs/hour

Of course, every body is different so you should find your sweet spot and learn what works/doesn't work for you throughout your training.

For hydration, use an electrolyte-mix in your drink bottle. Essential minerals like salt will help you re-hydrate faster as you sweat through your ride.

You'll also need to top up your fuel reserves with good carbs. This will keep you from 'bonking' and hitting an energy wall. Pro tip: If you need to set an alarm on your phone to remind you to eat, do it. Don't run out of fuel!

4. Love your bike

Your bike should be a happy and comfortable place for you. So make sure your bike isn't causing you unnessary pain or headaches.

Make sure your bike is well serviced and ready to go. If it's causing you body aches, get it fixed asap. Pro tip: a good bike fit is a serious game changer.

 

When riding long distances, you'll often end up on roads less travelled. For that reason, you'll definitely want to know how to give your bike some basic TLC. That means:

✔️ being able to change a tire

✔️ pump a flat

✔️ adjust your seat post

✔️ put a dropped chain back on

 

Being a confident bike wrangler will let you ride further, longer, more confidently.

 

 

5. Ride with friends

It kind of goes without saying, but if you're not enjoying the ride, the finish line will only become more daunting. Find ways to make long rides more enjoyable. Whether that means incorporating rest stops at a cafe, or training and riding with friends. We are social creatures, after all. Make it fun!





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