My rides are short (8 to 20 miles) and the tap water is sufficient for my rides. Once the temps climb past 78 to 80' F, then that not enough electrolyte-wise. My rule of thumb for those two chews every 10 miles and that keeps my energy up for the whole ride. Last week, the chews helped me get out of a energy deficit and cramping when the temps rose to 85 'F (I'm old and can't handle the heat as much as 40 years ago). Four chews got me home without cramping/bonking on the ride, and I was thankful that I bought a box of the GU's when they were on sale.
Super tasty in strawberry and watermelon. Easily chewed and not much sticking in teeth as compared to a few others I have had. Seems to do the trick for energy, electrolytes, and what-not.
They taste good, but they get stuck in your teeth.
I have used GU gels for years. I bought these for a change of pace. After a season of riding/racing I will continue to use both. I use the chews before an event and during endurance events. I like the texture of having something in my mouth and the taste.
I was hopeful that the taste and texture would be better. I usually go with Skratch chews and CLIF Bloks which I feel taste significantly better, but for the price point, these Gu Chews will serve its purpose during a longer or more intense ride.
I use the chews while doing my long rides on my road bike. I like the taste of the strawberry version. One thing I don't like is the fact that the bag is difficult to handle once it is open. You have to tear a large hole in the bag to remove the chews; then it's a balancing act to keep the chews that are still in the bag from spilling while you chew down what's in your mouth.
