Has anyone done the AIDS ride or other long distance cycling event?

So, over the weekend we drove over to the coast and as we were getting to the curvy road that goes over the hill, all of a sudden there were bikes everywhere.  I quickly realized that it was the AIDS ride.  We followed them or should I say they followed us all the way over the hill and partway down the coast (took us forever) but we had somewhere to be over there so no choice.  Anyway, all the way down I was just AMAZED by their determination. I mean cycling 545 miles! WOW!!! So, then I started bugging hubby about training for it.  He was like it's a great idea but who has the time to train for something like that.  I actually looked it up on the net and the training time is crazy....especially in the month before the event.  So, then I started thinking that just because that particular event isn't an option doesn't mean I can't find another ride that is shorter.  To make long story longer....I found a two day charity ride for Multiple Sclerosis (sp?) that goes from San Francisco up to the wine country.  It is scheduled for Sept which gives me enough time to get my gear and start training.  So, I am wondering if any of you are avid cyclists and if you have any suggestions for me? I will obviously need to invest in a good road bike as my mountain bike ain't gonna cut it.  Any suggestions, tips, info would be appreciated.

Sounds like a great ambition.  I am not familiar with the particulars of the MS ride.  I am guessing that you can get ready in 10 to 12 weeks. 
The Bicycling.com  website has some effective training plans.  The basic idea is something like this.  A 3 - 4 hour endurance ride once a week -- the distance is the distance that you can cover in 4 hours.  You probably want to shoot for 50 to 60 miles by week 10.  So you start off with 20 miles and add 5 miles per week until you are riding 60 miles.  Take an easy ride -- no more than 1/2 the distance of your endurance ride -- the next day.  Then you have 4 more days that you put in 1 to 2 hours in the saddle.  The remaining day is a rest day.  That's a good day to clean the drive train.

One of those 4 workouts in the middle of the week should be an intense interval session.  I like to use a fluid trainer for that workout.

You should join a club.  That would help you in planning some of your workouts -- all you have to do is go along with the crowd.  You could also pick up some tips.  You might find others who are interested in the MS ride.

Most of the bikes that you will find at a reputable bike shop are adequate for what you are trying to do.  You should be able to get by quite nicely with $1000 road bike.  (Note here: I now have two bikes -- you can see the pics -- an $800 touring bike and a $1200 road bike.  The problem with the touring bike is that it is the perfect bike for me.  That's the one that is going with me on the 900 mile road trip planned for the end of this month.  I drool over the $5000 carbon wonders but I can't see how they would work for me.  The road bike would be great for that MS ride but it isn't up to hauling a tent, sleeping bag and other stuff you need to survive an unsupported outing.)

Thanks for all the info. The ride is called Waves to Wine or something like that and yes it recommends 12 weeks of training, which is perfect if I get started now.  I just need to get me a BIKE!!!

I am also an avid cyclist. This is most definitely feasible. Follow one of the online and 'jc343' training suggestions, you'll be amazed at how quickly you can cover some mileage once you start.

As far as choosing a bike. Go to your local bike shop (LBS) and test ride some for sizing. If you tell me your height I could also do a rough sizing. If the ride is supported and you don't have to carry your tent/sleeping bag then a road bike is the optimal solution.

Depending on your budget, you can get a great aluminum/carbon bike with good components between $800 - $1200. I also have 2 bikes, the full carbon race bike (I love it, I spoiled myself, but I also work at a shop) and a mt. bike. I'm doing a 205 mile in one day ride coming up in July. I rode 180 last week and I'm doing a century (100 miler) on Saturday!

Good luck. Biking is infectious.

Slampe, I'm 5'4" about 135 lbs. I have long legs for my height and a somewhat shorter torso.

Get good shorts.

At 5'4 I would guess between a 50 and 52cm. Make sure to try both and don't be afraid to have them make adjustments.

Slampe...you are a genius!!! I got fitted today and I need a 51cm bike.  You obviously know your stuff. Ok, next question. I have narrowed my selections down to two different bikes: the Specialized Dolce Elite or the Trek 2.1. I can't decide!  There also two others that are a step down from these two. The Specialized Dolce and the Trek 1.2 but I am worried about buying the lowest end in terms of the components and all that. What do you think?  Also, do you have a preference between brands?  At the moment I am leaning more towards Specialized. I have read good things about the Dolce...and most have said they preferred it to the Trek. It is SOOO hard to make this decision though.  I am such a total newbie to this. 

My recommendation would be to buy the frame that you like best with the componate group that fits your budget.  Then you can upgrade componates over time.  As an example, my frame is 15 years old but the only original equipment on it is the front deraillier and the brake callipers.  Everything else has been upgraded or replaced due to wear and tear.  Also when planning your budget don't forget that the bike in only a part of the equipment/gear that you will need to get started.  You'll need a helmet, shorts, shoes, eye protection, pump, tire changing kit, lubes, etc.