A: If you tolerate caffeine well, it can be a smart move — but don’t try it for the first time on the Fred. The best strategy is:

• Save caffeine gels for the final third of the ride, or
• Take it 20–30 minutes before a key climb (so it’s kicking in when you need it)
  

If caffeine makes you jittery or unsettles your stomach, skip it and focus on consistent carbs from gels + electrolytes instead.