There is a distinct difference in how one approaches a self-supported brevet compared to a supported sportive. In a sportive, the focus is often on a personal challenge, but it is easy to burn all your matches trying to hold onto a fast group in the first 20 miles. For very long distances, a conservation-first approach is essential.
Stop discipline also changes. While staying under 10 minutes at feed stations prevents muscles from tightening up, a brevet requires a different strategy for reserves and timing. Having a 32T or 34T climbing cog in reserve helps keep the cadence smooth over those long miles.
How do your fueling and hydration strategies change when you move from a supported event to a fully self-supported ride?
