How To Ride 100 Miles: Made Easy | Conor Shares His Tips & Favourite Training Loop

Cycling 100 miles is a challenge. Whether you're a seasoned bike rider with years of experience or you're new to road cycling looking to your first big challenge - riding a century can be tough. But, as with all things cycling, it should be an enjoyable experience. Conor's here with some handy tips to help you on your way to completing your next 100 mile bike ride.
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Leave us a comment below!

[@gcn]

What was your first 100 mile ride?

[@michaelpolkey5996]

Mine was a long time ago I rode from Leicester to Skegness for the LOROS charity and I have also done a double century last summer.

[@danabean4408]

My first 100 miler was in 1987 - an organized ride called The Assault On Mt Mitchell” which was 70 miles of rolling country before 30 miles of largely ascending to the top of the tallest peak east of the Mississippi River in the US. My most recent Century was two days ago!

[@robwhite164]

Wetherby to the Humber bridge and back 200km.

[@xGshikamaru]

I was working 175km away from home. One day I decided to ride the way home instead of going by train. It took me a little under 7 hours stops included. I mapped a route where I would get to a little town every 25km just in case something bad happens I'm not in the middle of nowhere. Every time I would come to a city I would eat something. My lunch time was about half way through, but that was the easy part. A lot of Headwind after that. At the end of the ride I had some cobbles but right after that I met a fellow rider so I could draft until the final climb to my home which was pretty brutal after 175km. Pacing was probably suboptimal cause I gave probably a bit too much in the first hilly section, so my advice for anyone who considers doing a century would be: be conservative in terms of pacing, avoid big surges to get across small hills. At the end I was knackered but happy to make it

[@Cornelius477]

The Ring of Kerry!! Amazing ride!

[@750vfrman]

As a 77 year old, who only took up cycling (apart from school days) in 2015 after loosing my wife (cancer) now riding over 2,000 miles a year, plan A was Covid scuppered. I have ridden a few 70-80 mile Sportives & had booked the Cambridge Grand Fondo 100 for June. My thoughts were to try a century but reduce the climbing. A major disappointment as I am not sure i will have the strength or energy to try again as the years roll on.

[@chuckgliderable]

Just keep going! Consistent riding and training is the key. Set whatever goals you want or need. It doesn't have to be a distance. It could be a number of rides a week for a month, for example.

[@hangkasturi528]

So sad to hear your wife passed away..at age 77 ability to ride is something special because not all people can ride at that age..so carry on your ride at your own ability..

[@fvo911]

You are a strong man! Yes, you can! Watch your knees and heart rate to make the ride smooth! My respect ✊!

[@tominch9674]

Respect to you. An inspiration. Like all long rides, a lot of the challenge is to overcome the mind as much as the legs. Don't give in. Covid has scuppered many things but don't let it be the end of your ambitions, I will echo the encouragement of Chuck, Karam and Vals. Keep going, stay healthy and keep your mind set on your goals, be it 100 miles at once or 100 miles a week.

[@nathantang9964]

you could still do a century although its not part of a grand Fondo, get it done before it's too late!

[@charlesgould8047]

Conner: "I forgot how hard 100 can be." Me: "Thanks for pretending that this was hard for you."

[@ikmansuri]

My first long ride was of 65 km on hybrid bike, tough but enjoyed...

[@matthewcrich5951]

Thoroughly enjoyed this video. I bought my first quality bike last week (Specialized Roubaix Sport) for my 67th birthday. I’ve done four 10 km rides with a plan to double that distance to a 20 km ride this week. Eventually I hope to do 100 km then 160 km (100 miles) before the onset of winter. My wife surprised me with a Wahoo Elemnt cycling computer which makes my riding even more fun. Cheers from 🇨🇦

[@timw8926]

@@matthewcrich5951 Hey Matthew, did you manage to set out for 100 km? Hope all is well, greetings from Vienna

[@headbangerhank]

Can't stress the no littering enough, really bothers me to see used gels and bar wrappers on the ride.

[@gcn]

Its a shame that a small minority can ruin it for the rest of us.

[@joelyons886]

Was in Australia years back and went outback all of the food and items were marked and accounted for and you were fined if you didn’t bring back what you set out with. So important great point to make and get across GCN 👍

[@grandad1982]

Was just about to say the same thing. Theres enough scummy litterbugs as it is, don't add to it.

[@grandad1982]

Also this incudes banana peel. If you live in a temperate zone that shit doesn't rot away quickly and I'm sick of getting to the top of a peak or going to a beauty spot and seeing loads of bananas all over it!

[@steveiannazzo5451]

I frequently pick up used CO2 cartridges from the side of the road. Please stop littering with your used CO2 cartridges. Who else uses CO2 cartridges. It screams "Cyclists are dirt bags." Think about it, huh? If you hadn't used that cartridge today, you'd have carried it back home full. So carry it back home empty. It's 16 grams lighter when empty.

[@danman7877]

My first 100 miles went great, didn’t even feel it, then I woke up and realized I’d missed my alarm

[@anthonyiii1962]

Lol

[@MattRose30000]

I did 180 km (110 miles) a few days ago and the recovery day afterwards was almost harder than the ride itself...

[@Cloudimfm]

Other guys were awkwad with the camera when they joined GCN but Connor is doing it naturally from the beggining. Loved the vid!

[@eoincasey5461]

Why do people keep spelling Conor as Connor??!!

[@xAudiolith]

@@eoincasey5461 in most languages having one letter after the vowel means it'll be pronounced more slowly. Since Conors name is pronounced like Connor most people default to that.

[@benedictearlson9044]

@@altern8tive Lol there's no way that boy's had any media training, he's talking to sheep ffs.

[@MarlowWhere]

@@benedictearlson9044 that's how he practices being a media darling. If he can sell a slap chop to a load of sheep, he can talk to a camera.

[@marianne_1980]

He's a real asset to the team!

[@shreyaskunnath]

"The cycling paradox: We love it but it hurts" - Wise words by Conor.

[@noonehere4332]

Not as much pain as running.

[@Dang_Near_Fed_Up]

All proper cyclists are masochists to some degree, you have to be to get out the miles we truly enjoy.

[@scottmandel20]

Physical pain but mental euphoria :)

[@dimasakbar5105]

The moment when the adrenaline pump into your entire body feels reaaally good but at the same time the pain kicks in.. oh dear...

[@decidrophob]

@@Dang_Near_Fed_Up I think masochism with "hard work" is different from sexual orientation. Enjoying painful hard work has a very natural evolutionary explanation whereas masochism in sex does not seem to have one. Possibly masochism in sex has twisted from the cycling type of enjoyment of pain -- humans often have the ability to enjoy simulations.

[@madeintheimage]

Two other good reasons to start early: quieter roads & cooler temperatures

[@shamr0ck]

Conor, you need to get yourself some Tourism Ireland sponsorship.

[@adamoconnell7744]

I was just saying Failte Ireland needs to get Conor on their books!

[@stuartrooney6707]

ders more to Ireland din dis

[@gusjeazer]

And we need an Irish epic bikepacking trip

[@andream.464]

I just did 100miles today! I think one fundamental thing was not mentioned in this wonderful video: what to do once you get home after a 100 miles ride! The absolute first thing, even before showering, is to drink a large fast recovery drink! It will make you recover so much faster! Then do 3 min of stretching (do more before going to bed), shower, prepare your self a large meal and take a 20min power nap, or totally chill for an hour. If you have wife and children, it won’t be easy lol. The next day, do a short and flat 1.5hr ride in chill mode.

[@gman4662]

I did my first 101 mile ride a few weeks ago with my best mate. Couldn't of done it without him. Moving time was 6hours 35mins. It was a great fun. Last 3 miles were a killer though, I hit the wall! My previous longest ride was 65 miles, but my mate knew I could go further. Felt amazing when we finished, such an achievement and really proud.

[@PnlBtr]

That's awesome. It's great having someone to push with.

[@Dang_Near_Fed_Up]

Congratz

[@davidmarshall2399]

Same here. My neighbour is excited to have a rider next door and is nursing me along quite a lot.

[@jwfriar]

Totally - I got to 95 both times I’ve done one feeling good and then the last 5 were killer

[@Gaer56]

24.7 km/h is great AVG speed. I sure will do 100 miles this season , but I expect myself to land only about 22-23 km/h.

[@evanr1940]

"enjoy the view" is easy to say when you are tall enough to look over the hedges ;)

[@jerichoholic5805]

I'm 15. I did my first 100km a week ago. Aiming for 100 miles now ; )

[@MarkedOne46]

Can't do 100 anymore due to my MS. I do what i can and I'm happy with it.

[@mitchrich5015]

Kevin Doherty My first century was the London Surrey 100 and I did it to raise money for the MS Society. Sorry to hear it’s limiting your riding but glad to hear your riding is a source of happiness still. Stay strong; you are not alone in the fight. Kind regards

[@KeithHeinrich]

Keep moving. We have MS in our house and wish you all the best with your journey.

[@bikeskimawk670]

Ride to the level of your smile.

[@dirkgross1603]

I ride for MS each year, although this year it's been canceled. It's been my annual century ride each year, and it is always the first part of July (this weekend in fact). I plan to still ride a century, but do my own route solo probably by adding together two rides so I can stop by home for my mid-ride refuel instead of carrying all supplies with me. I hope a cure comes soon. I ride for a coworker who has been affected for 20 years now.

[@C345OFR]

Absolutely. To paraphrase Eddy Mercx: ride as much or as little as you like. But ride.

[@stevemcdowell123]

I did my longest ride yesterday, 44 miles up at gold lakes CA.

[@Ardass486]

I did mine, 40 miles in exactly three hours, U. K. Started cycling two months ago!!

[@kevinlau4857]

I'm not sure if people realize, but doing the still shots with the camera from afar takes more work due to setting it up and then getting it back. I appreciate you taking the time to do that to show us how nice the view is and I hope others appreciate that as well!

[@grobson4]

"Even though it's raining I always put on sunscreen, just in case the sun comes out." Well, that is one way to set expectations, and be happy, regardless of the weather.

[@icequeen4136]

In Ireland, having some sun is so rare, you might as well play lotto, when you have it :)

[@benedictearlson9044]

@@altern8tive That's bonkers nonsense. Sunscreen is a toxic chemical and exposure should be kept to a minimum. Use it only when needed, it is not needed on a cloudy day.

[@dermur68]

@@benedictearlson9044 Not true - don't assume that just because you can't see the sun, you're not getting UV rays. Clouds only block about 20-30% of UV rays.

[@robbchastain3036]

And I wear my Hawaiian shirt just in case I end up in Honolulu.

[@waynemcdonnell3167]

We can get all four seasons in an hour here in Ireland. I've gone out on lovely blue sky days and get absolutely soaked an hour in. The joys!!

[@Aaronstotle]

You've convinced me, when this pandemic ends I'm flying me and my bike over to Ireland to tour the country via bike.

[@a12i9]

did you do it?

[@jparker7477]

I definitely didn't have enough food and drink on my first 100 mile. It's dead flat on the prairies, so no climbs but hard to get days with winds under 30km. But without food and limited water, by about 80 km I was completely gone, swinging wildly from laughing hysterically to crying until I got home and collapsed on my lawn. Now I plan my 100 miles with more food, drinks, and a lunch spot.

[@eoincasey5461]

Loving the Irish flag on your sleeves 🇮🇪🍀

[@devononair]

I believe that means he is a former Irish National Champion.

[@luispadilla2212]

Great video great motivation. I just bought a bike went out on a ride I did 2 miles to my daughter's house and I was dying..my legs were killing me I was out of breath. Haven't ridden a bike since my kids were little they are all married now. My immediate goal is 10 miles to my youngest daughter and eventually 85 miles to my son's house.

[@Gunk55]

Make sure your bike fits well... That might be why you were experiencing discomfort. Good start though!

[@luispadilla2212]

@@Gunk55 Thank you. I will look into it.

[@tyrellchibvongodze3566]

I came back to cycling 2 months ago after 2 decades. i am now 48. Also started with shorter distances and gradually increased them every week. As I get fitter I can get further more comfortably. Till last week when i did 100km.

[@grimgamer5672]

You got this, keep going! We believe in you!

[@emeralff881]

How’s it going?

[@JosephLycettCycling]

When Connor goes off-script he’s one of the funniest GCN presenters

[@davidmarshall2399]

But where is brother in law Nigel ?

[@JosephLycettCycling]

David Marshall I don’t know. I wonder if he’s on GCN payroll at this point.

[@Bubbles991]

In this week , each day I peddled around 32 plus miles a day with a normal gearless bike... Going for 100 miles in a day is a really tough physical and mental task...good one..keep inspiring..Loads of love from India

[@laggypirates]

The hardest part of any of the centuries I've done has never been power output from my legs, it's always been comfort on the bike. Discomfort in the saddle, sore hands, back pain, etc. after 6-7 hours on the bike.

[@chrismarling5270]

Have only been riding about 3 months and just managed my first 50km....... little steps but maybe will work up to that one day!

[@bensaund]

Got up to 55 miles and been cycling seriously 1 year, next step is 62 mikes (100 km) then will hopefully work up to 100 miles

[@PnlBtr]

Nice. 50km is still a good effort. I worked up to 100, with 30km then 50km 70km and onto 100km. It's a good goal to have and super rewarding. No need to rush either. Just pace yourself, have a good route. My forst 100 was super close to home, mainly laps of a few circuits so I wouldn't be stranded ages from home. You'll get the 100.

[@vicodinfreeman5504]

I've started cycling for about 1 and a half months now and already done some couple 40 mile rides. Well unfortunately where I live is pretty small and there's not many places to ride except for the beaches and beaches are usually windy.

[@davidmarshall2399]

Keep plugging away at it. Find someone to ride with if you can, preferably someone a bit stronger than you, really helps motivate you. You’ll be surprised what you can achieve when you push a bit harder than you think you’re capable of. I ease off too much when riding by myself, riding with stronger riders every now and then helps me check in on my progress.

[@shihaoxu5522]

I just finished my first 100 "miles" (actually 120 km, for 6 hours) today. I followed the tips you guys provided. But it turns out that it wasn't so easy as I thought... My preparation: 4 liquid gels (60 ml each) and 2 energy bars (80g each). 6 bottles of water (650 ml each). But I ended up eating them all while I am still 30 km away from home. But, suddenly, I spotted a lovely fruit stand near by. Then I spent 10 Euros for 4 peaches and 2 boxes of strawberries. These really saved my life Thanks GCN for the tips :)

[@awen9164]

so you did 75 miles

[@richardmiddleton7770]

That's a lot of sugars! Protein and fats will sustain you much longer for longer rides. Also you need to train your body to burn it's own energy stores (fat) and it won't do that if you're constantly fueling with sugars so the more carbs you eat the more you will need until it's impossible to consume enough on long rides. Hope this helps.

[@Markhypnosis1]

120 km is no where near 100 miles. It's 74.5 miles.

[@davidf2281]

Massive kudos for doing a vid about a century ride and _actually doing one_ instead of just standing next to a bike talking about it.

[@ronrushworth2465]

Great video! I did my first century after my 50th birthday. It was 102 miles in Pocahontas County, West Virginia, USA. The 6600 feet of elevation gain made it particularly challenging. I was proud of my accomplishment, even though it took me 8 hours to complete the ride.

[@nicholassylver2102]

Irish folks: The peloton's cycling lobsters.... When do we get a cycle Ireland video, what a beautiful country!

[@Dang_Near_Fed_Up]

I can sympathize I cook like no other in the sun and that makes for a bad day if I forget the UV block. I'd rather ride in the snow than the heat of summer, but you ride when you can.

[@Vaticous]

I rode my first 100 (actually 114) about a month ago. I set off with a friend who refused to let me give up and I did the same for him. It was brutal, it was long, but it was so rewarding. I recommend anyone looking for a physical and mental challenge to at least try this ride. It takes a lot but it gives so much more!

[@carstenweiland7896]

During my first (and last) 100 miles i had really heavy bonk at about 70 miles in, luckily I rode my beloved ATB then (1992) with many short gears so I made it home after a short break and a banana. Looking forward to my second 100 miles with my new roadbike.

[@gcn]

Good luck!

[@Akkiben]

Same here, did my first 100 on a MTB. Now have a new Road Bike and hoping I can do the ride much faster and with less effort 😊

[@onelovemufc911]

Done my first century a few weeks ago! Took me 6 hours, was great fun!! 😄😄

[@charliedillon1400]

@Brainjock I've suffered with stomach cramps on every century I've done. I think eating and drinking lots of water the day before and morning of the ride is key. Gels seem to be the best fuel for the last two hours. they go down easy and work fast.

[@petermead4992]

I've done lots of century rides and the first one was when I was in college. I started early with full bottles and some granola bars, At one stop I drank about half a big bottle of Gatorade then filled the rest of the bottle with water to refill the two bottles on my bike. I drank the water/gatorade concoction for a little more than an hour then refilled the bottles with water. I got more granola bars at a gas station and as I remember, I got a Milky Way too. It was tough but I was in my middle 20's. Now at 72 I intend to do one next summer. Covid and knee surgery have put the kibosh on doing one this year.

[@greggallagher747]

I did my first century ride on a road cannondale, and it sucked Was not properly aware of what I need to do beforehand I am disabled with a bad back , but I ride a bike pain free I have owned 6 -8 bikes all ranging from a mt bike to a carbon fiber. Have rode 6 century rides. I am in FLA, way too hot But I did one since I have been here.

[@SteelyDad911]

I can barely remember what I did yesterday and this dude remembers what he ate on a bike ride 50 years ago. I envy that.

[@andrewbeldecos9758]

Eat early, eat often...probably the best advice in a video full of good advice! I learned this the hard way back in the earlier days of my riding, it was on one of my first "longer" rides, 60 miles or so...it wasn't pretty.

[@edithguntensperger6865]

I've done this year 3 tours of more than 200 km (125/130/135 miles). Each tour with more than 3200 h.m. in the Swiss Alps. However, I'm retired - 68 years and thus provisional!!! A lot of time for training! Enjoy your live!

[@glenndugger2680]

Edith, Wow how did you 135 miles in a day? What kind of training do you do?

[@JarobJOrtiz]

I completed my first century earlier this year hear in the States, up through northern Virginia, through eastern Maryland, down onto DC and back home. It was tough. The mental struggle is real, but you have to stay focused. I got a little flustered as I only had a phone with me and it died around mile 70. Thankfully I really studied the maps before I set out. But the experience did find me buying a bike comp the very next day lol. Also, fueling was very important. I made sure to eat often in order to make it through. A lot of gels and many bars were consumed along the way. I also found that BCAA supplement capsules worked really nicely. They help keep your mental focus and provide tremendous help whilst dealing with muscle fatigue. Hydration was key, too. I only drank water and electrolyte drinks the entire time (I have since replaced the electrolyte drink with a mix that provides carbs, electrolytes, BCAA's and caffeine all in one). Unfortunately, I was riding through some very rural areas where no public fountains exist so I had to stop for bottled water along the way, but you have to what you must to get the job done. I agree with Conor that you dont want to stop for long when taking a food break. I had to stop for a good 30 minutes while waiting for a ferry ride across the Potomac River and the first 20 minutes after the wait were treacherous. Overall, it was a great experience, I learned a lot and I cant wait to do it again. I'm just waiting for these dog days of summer to pass us by before I give it another go. Great video and I look forward to seeing more in the future.

[@robertboyd7458]

I'm in Northern Virginia and looking for a good route for a century (my first). Where did you go?

[@JarobJOrtiz]

@@robertboyd7458 I started in Arlington and zigzagged my way through the hills around McLean (the roads that intersect Old Dominion Rd). Then went up River Bend Rd to Beach Mill Drive, all the way over to Seneca and down into Auburn. From there I worked my way up to Leesburg on the W&OD until I got to Hwy 15. I took that to where you get on White's Ferry and crossed over to Marlyland. From there I did a loop on the paved roads over to the unpaved section of River Rd (a little sketchy on my 25mm road tires) to where it meets Edward's Ferry Road; took that north to where it meets up again with Offutt Rd which eventually turns back into the paved section of River Road. I continued on that all the way to where you turn right on Falls Road toward Great Falls Park. Then took MacArthur Blvd all the way back into DC and then crossed back into VA on the 14th Street bridge. You can see the entire route on Strava if you'd like. Look up Jarob Ortiz... otherwise I could share the route with you on Komoot if you have have that.

[@tacodiegoburrito9926]

I’m in Alexandria. Got back to cycling after a few years off when lockdown started and now looking to do a century soon. Was thinking the W&O Trail since it starts a mile from my house and is 90 miles round trip. Just add a few along the way.

[@stevek8829]

@@robertboyd7458 look up bicycle clubs in your area. They usually have century (including shorter) rides in early fall. The routes will be well planned and they have pick up cars if you have problems.

[@MrAici]

Did my first 100km two days ago after a month of training. I did mistake with not fueling up properly and last 15km were paint. But I managed. 100 miles is the next big step. Thank you for all the tips.

[@yhzmurphy]

Post COVID we need a GCN cycling tour in Ireland!

[@Dylan-ji5ug]

I have not done my first 100 yet, but I did my first 50 yesterday. I have been building my way up and using a lot of tips from this channel

[@lucien_ssc6798]

I’m cycling London to Brighton and back tomorrow so this is useful 😂

[@gcn]

Good luck Lucien! You can do it

[@lucien_ssc6798]

Thank you. I will!

[@danucul]

Glad to see somebody mentioning the importance of suncream (sunscreen) on bike rides. It should be said more often.

[@stevenbarclay8159]

I've started cycling again and would of loved to come with you I cycle from Croydon to Oxford Circus and back for work yesterday I did oxford to croydon in 49 minutes its my best I've done it was hard but so fun

[@CheeseyWotsit]

Good luck! It's supposed to be blowing a bit of a hoolie tomorrow.

[@hugobci]

Tomorrow its 100 mile day!👍

[@saskiaquirk3955]

I’m working towards 100 miles currently and it’s so helpful to have tips while you’re actually doing it because we see it stage by stage 😊 very entertaining! Love it!

[@harveyhaines5383]

Have you made it yet? I hope so!

[@nicholassmith831]

the thing that i'm taking away from this vid is when planning to do a 100 miler, plan lots of stops to take in the scenery :D not managed it yet but slowly building up to it. I'm on 55 miles so far - only a small push to go :)

[@TodRaines]

Conor is a fantastic addition! I really enjoy his work. I feel like people get intimidated by the idea of riding 100 miles more than it actually warrants. Just pace and, as Conor said, fuel, fuel, fuel. It's not a big deal, really.

[@richardmiddleton7770]

Yes if you're new to cycling then you'll need to fuel often but you can train to become a fat burner and you'll hardly need to eat anything to do 100 miles! In fact the best training in the weeks building up to 100 miles would be fasted rides building up from 30 minutes then 1hr then 2hrs etc.

[@noelschatz7893]

I only have a couple centuries in my thirty-nine years of cycling, done with some friends who were club racers back when I was in my twenties as part of the local community festival. For my fiftieth birthday I set a goal of fifty fifty mile long rides in the year leading up to it. With January, February, July and August being almost unrideable where I live due to weather I had a couple weeks in the Spring and Fall where I did three days in a row of 50 miles plus, but only a hand full of metrics. 4,500 miles for the year with 54 fifty or more milers.

[@fullfacejosh6809]

Conor is really a great add to the team. he is so natural with the camera and just being himself. Bring a lot of energy too!

[@pobg]

He's brilliant. 🇮🇪 Great video

[@gcn]

Cheers Pobg!

[@rickymoore6588]

My first long ride was 53 miles on a hybrid. It was tough but I could have done more at the end. Enjoyed it very much.

[@iwearflansuit]

Haha I did almost everything wrong on my first century then! My route was mountainous, I under-dressed, ate a fraction of that and actually ran out of water at one point. At least I didn't litter. And I had a fantastic time and a big rest after.

[@themediocretriathlete]

Conor is def one of my fave presenters...this guy is great.

[@chrisengland6528]

Another good Conor video! Great easy presenting style! Conor get yourself out of Waterford and up to Wicklow for some good road and gravel spins.....

[@mikebarsby653]

My first century ride was actually 220 km for a fundraiser! It's truly amazing what your body can do once you shut off the mind.

[@sakeenahm]

yes, it truly is about mind power

[@markrussell4282]

Not my first but my favourite century ride was C2C in a day. 138 miles, some tricky climbs but more importantly great memories made.

[@thesaintirl]

From Co Down 🇮🇪 we have some awesome rides here in Ireland, good job Conor doing your bit. Great vid thank you

[@Simply1ism]

Great route. I cycle toured the Vee many years ago and I've looked back thinking it to one of the most memorable parts I've ever been.

[@blaireasdon]

This is a great video Conor. Super inspirational, and helpful. Good job!

[@kennyodberg171]

Got pressured into doing a 100 mile ride 2 months after getting in to cycling! My longest ride before the 100 miles was a 35 mile ride. I finished in 7 hours and 1 minute. I started to hit “the wall” at around the 60 mile mark. Luckily I had great support and aid stations, as well as a great group of guys to keep me motivated. Now I have bragging rights at my local bike group and I’ve never loved cycling more!

[@rurb7365]

Is Connor suggesting drinking holy water? 😂

[@DD-qq8sn]

I saw advice on another channel that there's always water available in a church and I thought 'surely they're not talking about drinking out of the font?'... Everyone knows God loves a cyclist, but he must have limits ...

[@spyfox9796]

I’m planning to do my 100 miles run on Monday ... very excited! This video helps a lot

[@richcrompton6891]

My first 100 miler was cycling to meet up with mates for a camping holiday. I rode over Dartmoor and down into Cornwall with all the camping kit onboard. I made good progress but completely bonked 2 miles from the site! Totally spent! Nothing left, so I got the stove out at the side of the road, made a brew, found some food in the panniers and waited until some energy came back! Made it up the final hill, coasted down to the site and found I was the first to arrive! I set up camp and collapsed! I’ll never forget it. All century rides Are memorable!

[@GuraRaksha]

Food and water are so important! Running out of water on a hot day is awful and running out of energy because you didn't eat is ride killer. Doing 100 miles is one things, but doing 100 miles and ENJOYING it is another! Thanks for the content Conor!

[@royfulton]

Very positive and encouraging video. Well done Conor.

[@Mugtree]

My first 100m was about twenty years ago 😱. And I rode to London from Bristol on my mountain bike. It was emotional but I absolutely loved it 😍😂

[@nz3914]

Love all your videos, SO helpful! Thank you GCN!

[@xanderbennett9594]

Great video Conor! What a happy chappy he is on his bike! Ireland looks BEAUTIFUL! Brilliant example set with important little details like littering too. Keep the brilliant video's coming!

[@312time]

So cool to see content in ireland! Keep up the great work, thanks

[@SteveBrill]

Great advice Conor for someone (like me) who is still working up to my first century. 😊👍

[@alpacatears]

I used to love country cycles when I was living in Tipperary. Heading out along Kilkenny and Waterford was always great.

[@adamdedelva352]

Fantastic video, great job Connor & team GCN. This is the type of motivation I need :)

[@jonathanwood1817]

Mine 1st was: off the ferry at Dublin cycled down to Wexford finishing at Kilmore, If I recall correctly was about 16yrs old

[@amalofoto]

I did my first metric century two years ago, it was amazing! I've done quite a few long rides since, but haven't managed the 100 miles yet. Great video, very fun to watch =) Also, this makes me miss Ireland a lot, I need to visit again.

[@marcuspartridge11]

Great video Conor! I just rode my first century last month and I agree with all your tips!

[@MrIncredible71]

Great video Connor. Looking forward to a century later this year. Thanks for the tips.

[@simchambers1954]

I'm doing my first 100miles this week from the Cotswolds and ending in Dorset. Helpful tips for the journey, thank you

[@PnlBtr]

Good luck, enjoy it and take photos. Only do your first once.

[@steveiannazzo5451]

Drink. Eat. Take photos..

[@andymckie1960]

Thanks for the video Conor, great to see the Irish countryside again

[@alextorresphoto]

Great Video, can't stress the sun block enough. I'm just going to say it. Bonking is insane. You heard of runner's pants, but bonking is a whole next level. Be prepared to bonk if you don't eat and if you bonk, be prepared to stay at a near by hotel if you can't muster the energy back to get back on the saddle. lol.

[@douglaslock4474]

Thank you for the motivation and the eating tips. I road my first 100 miles 3 years ago as part of Kelley's Krusiers doing the MS Great Maine getaway. I supposed myself at 17 m.'s p. h. A year later I sit it again. Last year I went 100 miles on my own. It feels great. Thank you again. Douglas

[@caveboy9988]

Who else wants to ride in Ireland now?

[@andyp123456]

Didn't get into cycling until I left the UK, and now would love to go back and ride up to Scotland. Ireland looks like an amazing place to ride too. However, I'd be a bit worried because the only thing I ever see about cycling in the UK outside of GCN is all the horrible press stories whipping up hatred for cyclists.

[@vicodinfreeman5504]

I live in California. Monterey to be exact and it is super hard to ride here because of windy beaches and steep hills. I always wished I could live in Uk just to cycle there.

[@barrylooney4965]

Constipated Frog Ireland is not in the UK 🤦‍♂️

[@joshebarry]

Cycling in Ireland is lovely, and one of the best parts is the roads are so quiet. Only about 4.5 million people so you can cycle for hours without seeing a car if you stick to country roads. I live in the UK, and there are some similar lovely roads near me but you constantly have cars blasting past at 40mph.

[@thedaftestnameicouldthinko8233]

I toured round Ireland in 2006. Some of the less known areas are really scenic and as deserving of a visit as the better known bits but I was chased by dogs many times. The owners don’t control them. I also met a woman who said she’d had to give up running because of problems with dogs. For me, the worst was near Castlederg - two Alsatians and they seemed to mean business. Maybe things have improved but I wouldn’t count on it.

[@arno9161]

The first time i did a ride that was over 50km was from schwyz, switzerland over the gotthard to luino italy which is like 180km. Before that i just rode maximum once every two moths and not really far. To sum it up, I was massively under prepared but I survived.

[@gcn]

Always a great experience to complete!

[@tmbmtl]

First one hundred miler happened in 82. Montréal, Sainte-Agathe and back to Montréal. Nutrition is key, fuel up early, don't wait to be hungry, same applies to hydration. Conor is pumping out quality vids, he's a bit more cerebral than the other presenters, and that's a good thing. Kudos for the warning, bring back your rubbish!

[@ThePalmatron]

What a beautiful route....Thanks Conor for a great video!!

[@christianemeiners9224]

Well done, Conor :-) great video! My first was two years ago. Cyclassic Hamburg. It was an awesome experience for me. Had a flat tire though at 133 km into the race :-( bummer. Still finished sub 5 hours - which was good for me ;-)

[@gcn]

Fast ride Christiane! Sounds like a lot of fun, even with the flat tyre

[@gsm9076]

First 100 miles: Up until 130km: wow it’s much easier than I thought! I got this!! 131km: I want do die, please somebody shoot me.

[@AlecZier]

**sudden realization that you've had a tailwind as you turn the corner**

[@khatouss]

Same feeling after 70k. So still far from the 100 miles. Did 2 times 100 k this spring though . Tough but rewarding !

[@stevendembo2389]

I'm 68 and doing my 1st century this summer (May 2024). Your suggestions & enthusiasm will definitely help. Thank you!

[@riffraff9809]

Thanks for the wonderful Video, Im 58, started riding at 53 in the Month of June, did my 1st Century that August at the infamous Hottern Hell 100 in Wichita Falls Texas, these tips are right on point as I have learned the hard way over the years. That 1st 100 was painful, terrible cramps at about 80 miles, Garmin dead, phone dead but pushed on thru the cramps to finish in just under 8 hours. FOOD - HYDRATE is the name of the Game.

[@leopoldhuber2639]

im 15 and every 2 weeks im going on a 100km ride, which is about 60miles. im going for the hundred miles maybe next season

[@Dang_Near_Fed_Up]

Good luck, and enjoy.

[@sakeenahm]

Have you stuck with it?

[@stevePsutton]

Great video Conor. Very practical tips and full of very valuable experience. I'm wanting to do my first 100 now

[@omarachahbar9590]

Thank you for the valuable information

[@richardc316]

I did 40 miles yesterday on a 1970s Claude Butler. Nearly killed me.

[@Ardass486]

Hahahahahaha I did exactly the same today. Very hilly Devonshire. From Dawlish to Exmouth return. Exactly 3 hours!!

[@joelyons886]

Crossing the border into Cork... was it worth the extra weight having to bring your passport Conor??? hahaha Try Wicklow/Dublin Mountains 100 miles the legs will eh um thankyou!

[@andyp123456]

I'm very bad at managing my food and water intake on rides. In the summer I'd go crazy and drink all my cold water in one go because it was so good, then feel terrible immediately afterwards. Another time I went 70km without even having a sip, as an experiment, which I don't recommend either. I've had a couple of rides that took far longer than expected, and I ended up out of food, drink and cycling up a mountain in the dark trying to get to my destination on the other side. Another couple of times I've been cycling down a mountain in the dark, which is bad if you only have weak LED lights. I guess the thing to remember is to plan if you are going out of your comfort zone, or exploring new routes you've never taken. Remember to take into account elevation when planning, and leaving early is probably the best advice in the video, as it means you've got leeway for when your ride takes longer than planned, and it gives you a chance to recover from any unforeseen circumstances!

[@jamesdoolan8040]

Really appreciate the callout on littering and single use plastics. Great video. Thank you.

[@shamr0ck]

Name check Cork, name check Waterford Clonmel is in co. Tipperary!!!!!!

[@conordunne1]

So sorry!!!! My mistake this... Usually I do head towards Fermoy also, when I used to do this soon when I was training. Mentioned it by habit/excitement when I was starting out the ride!! Hopefully I do get to Cork for a few videos in the coming weeks though :)

[@TheJGOCONNELL]

@@conordunne1 you're doing a cracking job on GCN. if you ever get the opportunity or just fancy hitting up Colorado, would be happy to show you around. Great riding pretty much year-round. JOC

[@matthewbridges3147]

How do you carry so much food? I always find my bananas get smushed if I put them in the back of my jersey

[@orangeorphan]

I use a half-frame bag. It's very nice on longer rides. I fit all my food, an extra tube, keys, credit card, electrolyte mix. If the weather is changing you can also fit clothes in it. Tri bags work too but can't carry as much.

[@PnlBtr]

I eat the banana early and save the smaller items for later in the ride. Mainly carb gels as they're small. Also plan a route past a park so I can dump rubbish in the bin there. Or plan a stop to get more food.

[@DavidMackenzie]

Great camera work Conner, and great tips. Really enjoyed this.

[@shanebibby4255]

I’m 66 this is my 3rd year cycling . Did my first Century today ….yours and other GCN videos on doing the 100m and other cycling tips are invaluable …keep up the good work Connor & rest of GCN presenters…your all worth your weight in Gold …..well maybe flapjacks 🚴‍♀️👍

[@samuelljungqvist2100]

Would love to see a video about what to eat on training rides, I mean it’s not really nice for your wallet to eat a few bars, gels and some sports drink on every single ride, not if you ride a lot

[@yonpark6245]

Conor did mention quite a few things which are very affordable like folds, bananas, and flapjacks. And by "energy bar", granola bars at the grocery store are super cheap.

[@actionmethod]

At the end of my first century mile ride I got a bit excited and had to puke.

[@jon4739]

Really great video and Conor is a natural in front of the camera. Thanks!

[@gobellago1]

I rode 90 today. It was 90 degrees. I watched this video last night.The water at churches recommendation saved me! I would never have thought to look for churches. Thanks