"scottt" wrote in message
om...
Any clue as to what works best...? I ride between two and four-hours a
ride--a few times a week (also teach spinning classes twice-a-week). I
average about 80-100 rpm and also push around 16-20 mph.I always
hydrate before I ride and bring at least one large bottle of water and
a bottle of mixed accelerade. Last year, as well into this season, I
have been using Hammer gel as another source of fuel (especially on
longer rides).I'm feeling great, and pose this question to see if
anyone has better results with a mix of water/gels, or bars and
water/energy drinks or any other combo. My Tri buddy swears by eating
a good breakfast and drinking only Gatorade...He also mentioned that
one dosen't get any more bag for your buck/carbs etc. using sport
drinks and gels. Is he more loopy that usual?

In my experience I prefer water and solids over gel or Accelerade.
In fact, after a few hours the taste of (warm) Accelerade becomes plain
revulsive.
Gels have the advantage that they are lighter and easier to consume than
solids
(energy bars, fig newtons, etc.)

Arguably, there is no need to consume that many carbs on 2-3 hour rides.
There should be enough glucogen in your muscles to fuel the ride.
Just stay hydrated. Of course, ymmv ... literally.

Bengt-Olaf.