It is not necessary to do an LD before a 50 IF you
prepare properly. Many 50 & 100 mile riders have never done an LD.
Before doing a 50, I did many (and still do) 25+ mile training rides. They just
do not require the same logistical planning as 50 mile rides do, and I can do
one every weekend. This is no put down to anyone who wants to do LDs, but why
would one want to do a sanctioned LD if they often ride that distance in
training? JMHO.
