I usually take the long way down to Tenn/NC through southern Ohio, West Virginia and Virginia. Pickup the Blueridge Pkwy and ride it all the way to end at Cherokee NC. Spend a few days riding the incredible roads and relaxing, then bust ass all the way home to Central Ohio on the slab. The bike and how it is set up makes all the difference, and I usually break about every 200 miles or so when I need gas. Great saddle and good wind management can really keep you fresh. Stay hydrated, and pop a few ibuprofen now and then.