Your First 50-Mile Ride: How to Survive It Without Hating Biking Forever

There’s something about a 50-mile ride that feels like a real milestone. It’s far enough to count, long enough to brag a little, and a whole different experience from your average Saturday cruise around Riverside.

We see a lot of riders at Wrench & Roll hit that “I think I want to try a longer ride” moment. And we’ve also seen how a few smart choices can mean the difference between finishing strong—and limping home wondering why you ever liked biking in the first place.

Here’s how to get through your first 50 without burning out, bonking, or blowing up your drivetrain.

E-Bike hike

1. Start with the Route, Not the Mileage

Don’t just pick a number on a map. Think about the kind of ride you actually want.

La Crosse’s got options. The La Crosse River State Trail to Sparta is a popular out-and-back. The Great River Road toward Trempealeau makes a great mix of views and small-town stops. Or loop toward Onalaska and back for something flatter.

Plan for places to refill water, grab a snack, and stop if you need to. Don’t try to “just ride until it feels right” your first time out.

Need help mapping it out? We’ll sit down with you in the shop and plan something manageable. Or check out our Bike La Crosse guide for local ride ideas.

2. Pace Like You Want to Enjoy It

Your first big ride isn’t the time to go full speed out of the gate. Keep a steady, conversational pace—like you’re on a coffee ride, not a race.

If you use an e-bike, set your assist to a level that helps but still lets you work a little. You’ll thank yourself at mile 40 when your battery still has juice.

Need your e-bike checked out before a big ride? Book a quick battery check or tune-up. We’ll make sure you’re good to go.

3. Eat and Drink Like It’s Part of the Plan

Waiting until you’re starving or thirsty is too late. Start sipping water in the first few miles and snack every 30–45 minutes.

We like simple stuff:

• Bananas

• Energy chews

• Trail mix (the no-chocolate kind)

• Electrolyte drinks for longer rides

If you want ideas for easy-to-carry snacks, check out our recent post on trail snacks.

4. Check Your Bike (and Your Gear) the Day Before

Don’t find out at mile 12 that your tires are soft or your chain skips in third gear.

• Check tire pressure

• Make sure your brakes feel solid

• Spin your wheels to check for wobbles

• Lube your chain if it’s looking dry

Not sure your bike’s ready? Bring it in. We’ll give it a once-over or recommend a quick service.

5. Cut Yourself Some Slack

You don’t have to ride the perfect pace, eat the perfect snack, or finish in a certain time. Your first 50 is about learning your limits—and finding out what’s possible. You’ll make mistakes. That’s part of the fun.

Also, you don’t have to do it alone. Grab a friend, set your own pace, and make a day of it. The more you enjoy the ride, the more you’ll want to come back for the next one.

Your Ride, Your Story

Fifty miles isn’t just a number. It’s a chance to see a little more of the world on two wheels—and maybe learn a few things about yourself in the process.

Need a last-minute gear check? Want a new saddle before you go long? We’ve got you.Check out our sales floor, grab a rental if your bike’s not ready, or stop in and talk through your route with us.

We’ve helped a lot of riders hit their first big milestone. We’ll help you too.