As a cyclist (77 to be 78 in 40 days) who bike tours all over the world unsupported and does 3-4 gravel bike events a year, I have been using GU energy gels for many years, going back to my ultrarunning days. I always found the product to give me the boost I needed when I could feel oncoming tired legs or a feeling of low energy. Found the Expresso Love flavor several years ago and it's become my favorite for the extra caffeine. I'm leaving next week for Unbound Gravel on the 30th of May as my youngest son and I are riding it this year. I'll be taking a package of 24 GU Expresso Love energy gels for the race.
A leap in the dark, I bought a large bag of the orange and one of the lemon lime; this on the strength of the reviews. As one of those unfortunate souls that cramp up in the legs and feet after even a 25 or 30 mile ride, I've obviously tried most of the formulas out there that promise to obviate the dreaded stabbing pain. 200 miles over 5 rides and (touch wood) the legs are silent. Oh yes, let this be the beginning of a long and mutually beneficial relationship. Thank you Lord, for the alchemists at Skratch Labs.
You need to find out where you are with Perpetuem. Maybe a full dose is too much? Maybe too little? I usually use HEED early on and then switch to a HEED-Perpetuem mix later on during a ride. Everybody is different. Find your mix, then enjoy the ride. Ive been using Hammer products, namely HEED and Perpetuem for quite a while (20 years) and Ive found my "mix". Once you find your sweet spot you will be good to go. I like to get my calories and nutrition from a liquid and not a solid as I don't want to have to waste energy digesting solids during a long ride. Hammer is science for endurance athletes. You do the fine tuning.
I follow GU's suggested uses. 1 Gel before ridiing & one at my mid-way turn around place. Between the Gels & an energy bar with a cheese stick. I've never bonked on any ride. Longer or as scheduled. Fast & easy to absorb & tastes great when room temp or out of the back of my jersey pouch. Starting my outdoor riding season. I always have two boxes of mandarin orange,Gels. That way I'm covered for the season & stationary bicycling days during bad weather.
