Forget bananas and bars. We break down the new 2025 standard of 80g+ carbohydrates per hour and the only drinks that make it possible without a stomach ache.
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In the evolving world of cycling nutrition, the "carb revolution" shows no signs of slowing down.
As we move through 2025, the standard advice for fueling long, intense rides has shifted dramatically.
Gone are the days when a banana and a single water bottle were deemed sufficient for a gran fondo.
Today, performance-oriented cyclists aim for 80g to 120g of carbohydrates per hour to maximize stamina and prevent the dreaded bonk.
Reaching these numbers with solid food alone is digestion roulette.
This is where high-carbohydrate drink mixes come in. They allow you to sip your way to massive energy intake without the heavy stomach feel of solid bars.
We have tested and researched the market to bring you the best carbohydrate drinks for 2025.
These mixes are designed for high absorption, minimal gastrointestinal (GI) distress, and palate tolerability over long hours in the saddle.
Maurten remains a unique player in the field with its patented Hydrogel Technology. When the Drink Mix 320 hits the acidity of your stomach, it instantly converts into a hydrogel.
This encapsulates the carbohydrates, allowing them to bypass the stomach and travel to the intestine where they are absorbed.
This technology claims to drastically reduce the risk of GI distress, even at very high intensities.
The "320" stands for the calories in the bottle (which equals 80g of carbs). The flavor is notably neutral almost like slightly sweet water which is a huge plus during the 5th or 6th hour of a ride when "flavor fatigue" sets in.
Why we love it:
Best for: Cyclists with sensitive stomachs or those who hate strong, artificial flavors.
Shop Maurten Drink Mix 320 on Amazon
Formerly known as "Superfuel," Skratch Labs' entry into the high-carb market uses a complex carbohydrate called Cluster Dextrin.
Unlike simple sugars, Cluster Dextrin is a larger molecule that breaks down slowly and steadily.
This means it has a lower osmolality in the gut, which helps prevent bloating and "sloshing" even though you are consuming 400 calories (100g carbs!) per serving (if mixed as directed for high intensity).
Skratch is famous for using real fruit for flavor, so the Lemon & Lime or Raspberry options taste fresh and clean rather than chemical.
Why we love it:
Best for: Riders who want a steady release of energy and prefer natural fruit flavors.
Shop Skratch Labs Super High-Carb on Amazon
Neversecond has quickly gained a reputation for its clear, science-based "system." The C90 mix is exactly what it says on the tin: 90g of carbohydrates per serving.
This is one of the most potent mixes available, designed for the upper limits of human absorption.
It uses a 2:1 maltodextrin-to-fructose ratio and is pH-neutral.
The brand also makes it incredibly easy to track intake; their products are labeled in "units" (C30, C90) so you can do the math in your head while riding at threshold.
Why we love it:
Best for: Serious endurance athletes pushing the 90-120g carb/hour barrier.
Shop Neversecond C90 on Amazon
Tailwind has a cult following among ultra-endurance cyclists and gravel racers. Their philosophy is "all you need, all day."
The Endurance Fuel is designed to replace calories, electrolytes, and hydration in one go, without the need for separate salt pills or gels.
While it is generally mixed to a lower concentration than the "super drinks" above (usually around 200-300 calories per bottle), it is incredibly versatile.
It dissolves instantly and clear, leaving no film in your mouth. The "Naked" (unflavored) version is particularly good for reducing sweetness fatigue.
Why we love it:
Best for: Ultra-endurance rides, gravel grinders, and riders who want a simple "scoop and go" solution.
Shop Tailwind Endurance Fuel on Amazon
Science in Sport revolutionized the market with their Beta Fuel range, famously helping Chris Froome on his solo raid at the Giro d'Italia.
The 2025 iteration, Beta Fuel 80, continues to set the gold standard. It uses a precise 1:0.8 ratio of maltodextrin to fructose.
Research suggests this specific ratio allows the body to oxidize more carbohydrates per hour (up to 17% more) compared to the traditional 2:1 ratio, reducing the feeling of fullness.
Each sachet packs a massive 80g of carbohydrates. The texture is surprisingly fluid for such a calorie-dense drink, avoiding the "syrup" sensation that plagues some competitors.
Why we love it:
Best for: Racers and riders targeting 80g+ per hour who need a proven system.
Shop Science in Sport Beta Fuel Here
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