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've been using Hammer Perpetuem and Heed for several years with good results, no cramping. I rode a mountain century using Perpetuem in May with no cramping. But I've since joined a cycling club and have been trying to "up my game." In June, I did a mountain century using Perpetuem, started cramping midway through the ride, and was only able to finish loading up on salt. Then a couple weeks ago in August a did a mountain century using Heed with 400 mg of salt/16 oz of water added. I started cramping mid-way but this time was able to manage the cramping with mustard and pickle juice. Also, Hammer products, especially Perpetuem, settle to the bottom of the bottle. This requires shaking the bottle before drinking or uneven mix when using an hydration pack.
I've been using Perpetuem for several years now. For me, it has an improved taste over its predecessor. But the biggest improvement is how much easier it is to mix and dissolve. Although it can take some time by hand, I now also use a battery-operated frother. I put one scoop of Perpetuem in about 4 ounces of water, froth to mix it, and put it in the refrigerator. Just before I set out on my bike ride, I drink it. That mix and balanced electrolytes in my water bottles pretty well carry me through a 45-mile ride with my club. 32 servings turn into 64.
I have been an advocate of Perpetuem for many years. It has aided me in many 100 miles mtb races, 12-Hour mtb races and double centuries (with 18,000 to 21,000 ft of climbing). Talking long days in the saddle. And I can't forget my Everest aided by Perpetuem. It is magic.
Tip---Mix two scoops of Perpetuem with one scoop of Heed in your water bottle.
This has never let me down. Great for longer distances. Can be used as a stand alone. Never going to get a sugar crash either. I used this exclusively for this year's 100 Mile Unbound. No need to take any solids.
When I'm going to be on the bike for 6 hours or more, Perpetuem is my "go to" fuel. I've tried just about everything and nothing compares. It provides the sustained energy I need to get home. It's easy to consume and easy on my digestive tract. Can't say enough about this wonderful product. Wash it down after the race with Recoverite and you'll be back in the saddle in no time!
I assume the carbs are giving me a little extra fuel on long rides. The sodium and potassium can't hurt. All-in-all, Perpetuem is a good energy drink.
I use perpetuum on most rides. About 2/3 scoop to a regular bottle. Works great. But I wish they still offered the orange vanilla flavor - it was like a creamsicle.
Great stuff used a long time. AIDS recovery for me and enjoy good flavor and no crappy taste!
I mix with Heed for rides over 2 hrs and goes down easier than bars or gels and really prevents bonking
