Completing a century ride is a popular bucket list goal. Maybe the thought of a century ride has crossed your mind; but, you've wondered if it's possible to train for a 100-mile ride without giving up all free moments in your life in order to achieve this goal.
In fact, you might have several questions that are holding you back from signing up for a century ride. Let's look at a few common century ride questions.
More: 6 Tips for Century Ride Rookies
What If I'm Too Slow?
Most events have a range of times that aid stations are staffed to support riders. Usually, these times are quite generous. Riders that are worried about being too slow can often begin the ride early to be assured of ample time to complete the event while sponsored aid is still available.
If your average speed makes it difficult for you to complete the event while full aid stations are available, make contingency plans to have someone look after you the last few miles. For rides that are near multiple convenience stores, you can complete the ride and rely on cash or a credit card to get you through any miles that are beyond the hours supported by the event director.
| Average miles per hour | Century Ride Completion Time |
| 12 | 8:20 |
| 13 | 7:42 |
| 14 | 7:09 |
| 15 | 6:40 |
| 16 | 6:15 |
| 17 | 5:53 |
| 18 | 5:33 |
| 19 | 5:16 |
| 20 | 5:00 |
More: How to Set an Effective Pace for Your Century Ride
Do I Have to Carry My Own Food and Water?
Most organized century rides have supported aid stations. Depending on the event, the aid stations can be minimally stocked with water, fruit and energy drink or the tables can be a riding cyclist's dream buffet.
What If I Have Mechanical Problems?
It's always a good idea to learn how to be self-supported. Carry your own spare tubes, tire irons, air (a pump or CO2 cartridges) and a patch kit. The patch kit is for the unfortunate circumstance that you have more than one flat tire.
Some events have traveling mechanical support. That means a van or truck filled with great mechanics are there to help you change flats and help with other mechanical problems. Often these support vehicles carry spare parts, so be sure you carry cash or a credit card in case you need to purchase a spare tube, a new bolt or other necessary spare parts.
Of course a backup plan is to carry your cell phone so you can call a friend or family member for help.
