5 Tips Every 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.

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/shoulders/back 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.

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, lightweight, and designed for endurance. That means:

✔️ padded cycling shorts or bibs (with female-specific chamois)

✔️ 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 

Seriously, do both often and consistently throughout the ride (and also before and after). Some general guidelines to follow for any 2hr+ rides:

✔️ You should aim for a 750 ml bottle/hour while riding

✔️ Use an electrolyte-mix in your drink bottle

✔️ Eat every 30-45 minutes 

✔️ Aim for 60-80g of carbs/hour

Of course, everybody is different so you should learn what works/doesn't work for you throughout your training. 

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!

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

Your bike should be 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. 

It kind of goes without saying, but if you're not enjoying the ride, the finish line will only seem more daunting. Good company always helps pass the kilometers. 

Join a cycling club; Train with friends. You’ll likely end up being more consistent with your training and also push yourself in ways you wouldn’t have been able to on your own. We are social creatures, after all. Make long rides fun!