Brad from St Louis on 7/10/2009 3:39:17 PM:
Either bike will work. Pick the one that is most comfortable for a long ride.
Bring a listing of places to stop for food, lodging, etc by using the Plan a Ride option at the top of the web page and printing it out.
Bring extras of basics since businesses aren't always open and towns can be over 10 miles apart.
Extra water. Don't expect a 20oz bottle to carry you through the day.
Extra food. Some kind of snacks like granola bars. Maybe something like GatorAde. Enough to get by in case of a close store or restaurant.
First aid - antibiotic creams, bandages, etc.
Sunblock.
Bug repellant. for the evenings when you are camping.
Clothes and camping supplies appropriate for the weather. It could be both warm and very cold in March.
Extra tire - not just an extra tube, but also an extra tire. The one time I didn't bring an extra tire on a multi-day trip is the only time I've ever had a blow-out. Also take extra tubes, patch kit, and whatever tools you usually carry.
Hand-wipes. To clean your face and hands of food, dust, bike grease, etc.
toilet paper - a small roll in case the trail-side toilets are out.
Also, if camping, bring soap/shampoo, towel. I use a mild soap that works as a shampoo, too. I also use it to wash clothes, since I only bring about 3 days of clothing with me.