Thatwomanagain, the original poster didn't specify how (s)he was was going to use the energy drink. Perhaps it was, as you suggest, for a quick drink at the end of a long leisurely ride in UK conditions; in this case, I agree with you. Even plain water would be safe for this circumstance (though it wouldn't maximise performance).

Alternatively the OP could have been using it as his sole nutritional intake for a 200km sportive in summer conditions. In this case if he used a non-salt containing beverage there is a genuine risk of hyponatraemia which can kill. For all we know the OP may live in Hawaii and be having a go at the Ironman; unlikely but possible (and if you are doing this I would get some professional advice!).

For what it is worth I am doing a 200km sportive next weekend (That has over 2000m of climbing, the Wicklow 200) and I will be fuelled solely by a home made energy drink. It will contain salt as it is safer and more effective.

I am not for one moment suggesting that you liberally salt every meal you eat, there are clear health implications to doing this but energy drinks should contain salt.

BTW both of the articles posted by the previous posters look like useful articles... M