during a ride? pepsi/coke if i need some "rocket fuel" to get over the actual or proverbial hill in the next 45 mins/1 hr.
a beer-preferably a great lager if it's warmer than 80 degrees out. if no beer, a nice chilled mineral water of a subtle nature
such as lime-flavored. if you're hydrating properly pre and post ride, straight water is not necessary unless you're doing a massive
ride or a 90 + degree ride of distance.