Bike ride on Sunday & not been training, will I make it?!

[mightyquin]

Hi,

I entered a charity bike ride (Thames bridges) which has come round too quick, it's this Sunday.

For various reasons I've not been out on the bike much in the last month, nor have I been getting to the gym. I'm not particularly unfit, but then I'm not sure I'd say I was very fit either, just average at the moment, perhaps a tad over weight.

The ride is approx 33 miles and it's mostly flat. I'm riding a single speed bike and it's more of a fun run than anything so I'm not worried about my time etc., just want to have a nice day out.

I have been intending to get clipless bike shoes but my only chance now will be on Thursday.

Q1. Any tips for some last minute training which might help?
Q2. Any tips for the day (energy food, how much to drink etc)?
Q3. Should I go for the shoes or will it be more likely to cause me to fall off as I won't be used to them?!

Cheers

p.s. Or is the answer none of the about, it will be a 'walk in the park' and I'm being stupid worrying about it?

 

[monkeypony]

Hi,

I entered a charity bike ride (Thames bridges) which has come round too quick, it's this Sunday.

For various reasons I've not been out on the bike much in the last month, nor have I been getting to the gym. I'm not particularly unfit, but then I'm not sure I'd say I was very fit either, just average at the moment, perhaps a tad over weight.

The ride is approx 33 miles and it's mostly flat. I'm riding a single speed bike and it's more of a fun run than anything so I'm not worried about my time etc., just want to have a nice day out.

I have been intending to get clipless bike shoes but my only chance now will be on Thursday.

Q1. Any tips for some last minute training which might help?
Q2. Any tips for the day (energy food, how much to drink etc)?
Q3. Should I go for the shoes or will it be more likely to cause me to fall off as I won't be used to them?!

Cheers

p.s. Or is the answer none of the about, it will be a 'walk in the park' and I'm being stupid worrying about it?

You'll be fine. Will-power alone will get you 33 miles without any real difficulty. No training required. Ride in whatever you feel comfortable riding in and enjoy it!

 

[Fiona N]

I definitely wouldn't go for spd shoes/pedals if you've not used them before - you'd be too much of a danger to your fellow riders

 

[mightyquin]

Thanks for the replies. Are the shoes really THAT difficult to get used to?

 

[palinurus]

Thanks for the replies. Are the shoes really THAT difficult to get used to?

Not really but take some time to practice first so you are comfortable with them.

 

[mightyquin]

Ride went well, my first 'longer' ride on a single speed too. The saddle kept tilting backwards which I see is due to a problem with the seatpost clamp, I'm sure that's why I've got such a sore bottom today!