Does Cycling Change as You Age?

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A picture of Bruce Bussell who cycled across Texas in 2020

It might sound ironic, but at 69, I believe I'm a better cyclist now than I was 20 or 30 years ago. No, I don’t ride as fast as I once did, and my days of chasing personal records are behind me. But I’m more proficient — smarter, more efficient, and more in tune with the rhythm of the road.

As a touring cyclist, I value endurance over speed. And thanks to years of experience, I can now ride longer distances with less struggle than I could in my younger days. So, does cycling change as you age? Absolutely. But not all of those changes are negative.

🧓 The Physical Realities of Aging

Let’s be honest — aging does bring challenges. Our bodies change in ways that can affect performance, comfort, and safety on the bike. Some of the most common changes include:

  • Muscle loss, making it harder to generate power

  • Joint stiffness, which can impact comfort and mobility

  • Cardiovascular decline, reducing stamina at higher intensities

  • Diminished balance and coordination, which can affect confidence and control

But these changes don’t mean you have to stop riding. In fact, there are plenty of ways to adapt.

🌟 The Unexpected Advantages of Aging on Two Wheels

Here’s the good news: age also brings wisdom. And wisdom, especially in cycling, is powerful.

  • You know your body better and recognize what it needs to perform well.

  • You understand your bike and gear — what works, what doesn’t, and how to fix it.

  • You’ve gained experience with terrain and weather, helping you make smarter route and timing decisions.

  • And perhaps most importantly, your perspective has shifted — from competition to connection, from pushing limits to soaking in every mile.

There’s something beautiful about that.

🛠️ How to Keep Riding Strong as You Age

Want to keep riding for years to come? These simple strategies go a long way:

  • Strength train a couple of times a week to fight off muscle loss.

  • Stretch or stay flexible to protect joints and stay comfortable in the saddle.

  • Listen to your body — rest when needed, don’t ignore pain.

  • Upgrade your bike setup for comfort and support (a better saddle, wider tires, compact gearing).

  • Ride with others — for safety, encouragement, and camaraderie.

🚴 The Takeaway

Cycling absolutely changes as you age — but so do you. You gain perspective, resilience, and a deeper appreciation for every mile. While your peak power may decline, your wisdom and experience give you a whole new edge.

So no, you may not ride like you did in your 30s — but you might ride better than ever.

Location: Lubbock, TX, USA

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