We’ve collected a range of hints, tips, do’s and don’ts from riders who completed the course last year, so you are fully prepared for the 2014 Prudential RideLondon 100. All you need to do it get your bike and kit together (our Prudential RideLondon 100 Checklist will help there) and get set to enjoy the experience! It’s going to be amazing.
DO make sure you have everything you need the day before, and have it all laid out and ready to go on the morning of the event. Don’t forget your race numbers, rider card, and race bag!
DON’T forget to bring your road cycling shoes, especially if you are wearing other footwear to get to the Olympic Stadium startline! You don’t want to get there and find you are going to have to do the event in flip flops.
DO remember to slap on some Chamois Cream in the morning, or just before you start. You’ll be riding for several hours, and it will help keep you comfy and prevent chaffing in your undercarriage!
DON’T decide to try out brand new kit for the first time during the ride. You don’t want to find out those new bib shorts chafe 40 miles in with another 60 miles to go. Opt for tried, tested and comfortable.
DO get a good nights sleep, and have a good breakfast on the morning of the event, and you’ll start the day fueled, rested and ready to do your best. Your best bet is to give our Prudential RideLondon 100: What to Eat Before, During and After the Ride a quick read.
DON’T try experimenting with new foods or nutrition products during the event. Stick to what you know works for you. Upset tummy + 100 miles of cycling + bib shorts = not fun at all.
DO make sure you have your route to the start of the Prudential RideLondon 100 planned in advance. You might want to book a taxi to get you there so you don’t get too tired, or someone could drop you nearby. You aren’t able to change your start time, so make sure you are there in good time!
DON’T forget to stop to refill your water bottles and grab some snacks (and a loo stop) at some of the various stations around the route. They’ll have fruit and cereal bars for you to munch on. The stops will also have flavoured hydration powders to pop in your water bottle to keep you powered up.
DO take a picture at the top of Box Hill (if the sun is shining) and remember to soak up the atmosphere. It’s such a wonderful experience, make sure you make the most of it!
DON’T ignore the rules of the road, the event marshals or the other officials who will be working to keep the event fun and safe. You don’t want to prematurely end your ride by crashing. Read the Prudential RideLondon 100 guide to event safety and hand signals – it’s useful info to know!
DO bring your Race Bag (with your race number on it) to the start line with a change of clothes and shoes, so you have something to put on after the race. These get loaded into lorries in the Olympic Park, and are there waiting for you when you finish the RideLondon 100 at Buckingham Palace.
DON’T forget to pick up your well-deserved medal as you cross the line, and smile for the photo finish!
DO stay after the race to soak up the atmosphere, and cheer on the other riders. You’ve just done something amazing. Enjoy it!
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Essential Prudential RideLondon 100 Checklist
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