LEL 2013 / London - Edinburgh - London Audax

Can someone explainbeforeme the concept of tapering?

Obviously the idea is not to start run down, but I dont really want to turn the taps off, have my metabolism wind back and end up getting a cold.

What are the last big (300km plus) events people are doing?

Is the buzzard too much too late?

Before the 24hr I rode 12hr the Sunday before. Then few rest days then light rides.