Ivor Tingting wrote:It's difficult not to be negative but I am getting the impression the OP has little if no cycle experience let alone cycle touring experience. I wouldn't say what she is planning can't be done but it is a tall order if she has little to no cycling miles in her legs. You just cannot get around this.
Nothing wrong with a bit of reality, but in fairness to the OP she has camping gear which would suggest at least some outdoor experience. I wouldn't be a fan of bivvying in March, but then again, it's only an emergency situation.
Also in her favour is the fact that the first part of the route is relatively flat and gives her the option to build up her cycling strength. You're right that it will take time to get used to the bike, especially the saddle and she has been advised a few times to get started as soon as possible. By the time she hits the mountains she'll be well able to make the decision whether to go over them under her own steam or not.
Ivor Tingting wrote:Once the OP has begun she is going to go through all these emotions whether she can complete her ride. She will be shattered after the first day and by the end of the 2nd or 3rd days will want to quit. She will have taken too much and things she didn't need. Her legs will be burning, she will have no energy and grind along at a snail's pace. She will have some sort of discomfort with her new bike that she has ridden little and she will feel that climbing the Alps is insurmountable. She will want to quit.
Sorry, this is just too negative.
Op is an athlete capable of running a marathon. I'm sure she's well used to listening to her body and reacting accordingly.
I don't think it's particularly helpful to tell someone you don't know how they will feel and react..... unless, of course, you're just using some reverse psychology