The Old Guy Bicycle Blog

For seniors with mobility challenges, staying active and enjoying the outdoors can be a difficult task. Traditional bicycles may not be a viable option for those with mobility impairments, but there are adaptive bicycles available that can provide a comfortable and safe riding experience. In this article, we will explore some of the most popular adaptive bicycles for seniors with mobility challenges, including recumbent bikes and handcycles, and provide helpful tips for selecting the right bicycle                . Recumbent Bikes Recumbent bikes are a popular option for seniors with mobility challenges because they offer a comfortable and stable riding experience. These bikes have a reclined seating position, which can be more comfortable for seniors who may have back or neck pain. They also have a low center of gravity, which provides more stability and balance. Recumbent bikes come in a variety of styles, including trikes (three-wheeled bik...

Ranting About Car Drivers' Threat to Cyclists Safety and Tips on how to Ride More Defensively Introduction: As a cyclist, you're not just sharing the road with other vehicles but also putting your life on the line. Every year, numerous accidents occur between cars and cyclists, leaving cyclists severely injured or even dead. Unfortunately, many of these accidents happen because car drivers fail to pay attention to their surroundings, and as a result, cyclists become the victim. In this article, The Old Guy Bicycle Blog will be ranting about car drivers' disregard for cyclists' safety and sharing tips on how to ride more defensively. The Problem: Car drivers are the biggest threat to cyclists' safety. They often overlook cyclists and treat them as an inconvenience rather than a vulnerable road user. It's not uncommon for drivers to park or make sudden turns without checking their mirrors or looking behind them, leaving the cyclist with no time to react. Additiona...

Overcoming Embarrassment: How Riding a Bicycle Can Get You in Shape Faster than You Think For many people, the idea of riding a bicycle is associated with feelings of freedom, adventure, and fitness. However, for some individuals, the idea of riding a bicycle can be intimidating, particularly if they are out of shape and worried about being judged by others. The truth is that riding a bicycle is one of the most effective and efficient ways to get in shape, and the benefits far outweigh any potential embarrassment. The benefits of riding a bicycle are well-documented. Not only is cycling a low-impact form of exercise, making it easier on joints and muscles, but it is also an excellent way to burn calories and improve cardiovascular health. In fact, cycling at a moderate pace for just 30 minutes can burn between 200 and 300 calories, making it an ideal activity for weight loss and overall health. One of the biggest misconceptions about riding a bicycle is that it is only for fit, athleti...

Cycling is a great way to get exercise, explore your surroundings, and have fun. It's also a relatively low-impact activity, making it a good option for people of all fitness levels. If you're a beginner who's interested in starting cycling, here are the essential pieces of equipment you'll need: A bicycle: The type of bicycle you need will depend on your riding style and the terrain you'll be riding on. If you're not sure what type of bike is right for you, talk to a bike shop salesperson. A helmet: A helmet is the most important piece of safety gear for cyclists. It can help protect your head in the event of a fall or collision. Cycling clothes: Cycling clothes are designed to be comfortable and cool, and they can help reduce drag, which can improve your speed. Some essential pieces of cycling clothing include cycling shorts, a cycling jersey, and arm and leg warmers. Cycling shoes: Cycling shoes are designed to clip into your pedals, which can help you gene...

Electric bikes, also known as e-bikes, have become increasingly popular in recent years, particularly among seniors who may struggle with hills or longer rides due to limited mobility or stamina. However, e-bikes have sparked controversy among traditional cyclists, who view them as a form of cheating or a threat to the purity of cycling. In this article, we'll explore the arguments for and against e-bikes among cyclists, and discuss how e-bikes can benefit seniors. Arguments Against Electric Bikes Traditional cyclists often argue that e-bikes are a form of cheating, as they provide an extra boost of power that allows riders to go faster or climb hills more easily. Some cyclists also view e-bikes as a threat to the purity of cycling, as they blur the line between cycling and motorized transportation. Arguments for Electric Bikes Proponents of e-bikes argue that they can make cycling more accessible and inclusive, particularly for seniors and people with disabilities. E-bikes can pro...

Cycling is a great way to stay active and enjoy the outdoors. However, it's important to remember that cycling can be a strenuous activity that requires a lot of energy, especially when you're going on long rides. That's why hydration is important when cycling, as dehydration can cause fatigue, muscle cramps, and even heat exhaustion. In this blog post, I will discuss the importance of hydration when cycling and how to outfit a bike with bottles. Before going further I want to describe a ride that I was not hydrated properly and how it almost cost me life. That will never happen again. Hydration and cycling is important. I was riding from Carlsbad, New Mexico to San Angelo around 2004. The first day was a pretty easy 80 mile ride to Hobbs, New Mexico but day 2 was a ride I was not prepared for and it affected day 3 to the point that I could have died. Day 2 was a 120 mile ride from Hobbs to Big Spring, Texas. I knew it was going to be hot and prepared to take plenty of wate...

As we age, our bodies — and even our relationships — go through changes. But staying active can help us feel stronger, more confident, and better connected to others. One of the best ways to stay active as a senior? Cycling . It’s not just good for your heart and joints — it can also boost your mood, your memory, and yes… even your love life. Let’s explore how cycling helps seniors thrive — both on and off the bike. ❤️ Physical Benefits of Cycling for Seniors Cycling is a low-impact activity that’s easy on the joints and adaptable for nearly every fitness level. For seniors, regular riding can offer: 💓 Improved Cardiovascular Health Cycling is an aerobic exercise that strengthens your heart and lungs, lowers blood pressure, and reduces the risk of heart disease and stroke. According to the Journal of Aging and Physical Activity , regular cycling even improves blood vessel function in older adults. 💪 Increased Strength and Flexibility Riding works the legs, hips, and core — e...

If you're a cyclist in Texas — or honestly, anywhere in the U.S. — chances are you've heard of the Hotter'N Hell Hundred . This legendary ride through the North Texas heat has become a rite of passage for endurance cyclists, and I’ve ridden it enough times to know exactly why. Held every August in Wichita Falls, Texas, the event draws thousands of cyclists from all over the world to take on a course that’s as tough as it is rewarding. With blazing temperatures often soaring above 100°F, the challenge is real — and so is the community that rallies around it. 🔥 My Ride in the Heat One of my most unforgettable Hotter'N Hell rides was the year the temperature topped 110°F. I was riding the full 100-mile century route and felt strong — until mile 75, when the heat caught up with me and I started cramping badly. Thankfully, this ride is known for incredible support . I made it to a medical tent, where volunteers handed me a huge dose of pickle juice. It worked. I got ba...

Buying a new bike or upgrading your cycling gear can be both exciting and overwhelming. With countless online options and big-box stores offering steep discounts, it’s easy to overlook your local bike shop. But let me tell you — there’s something you won’t find in those places: personal service, expertise, and relationships that go the distance. I’ve been cycling for decades, and I’ve learned the value of a good local shop the hard way — and the right way. 🔧 My Personal Story: How a Local Shop Helped Me Replace My Bike for Free I once rode a Specialized AWOL that had over 30,000 miles on it — a bike I purchased from a local shop I trust and use regularly. One day, the chainstay cracked in half. I took it in, just hoping they could tell me if it was fixable. The shop owner asked me to leave the bike with him so he could investigate. A few days later, he called back with incredible news: Specialized had a lifetime warranty on the frame , and they were honoring it — even after all t...

Cycling is one of the best ways for seniors to stay active, healthy, and independent. It’s low-impact, easy on the joints, and great for improving cardiovascular fitness, strength, balance, and even mental well-being. But let’s be honest — starting out can feel intimidating, especially if you’re out of shape or haven’t been active in a while. That’s why I’ve put together these practical, experience-backed tips for senior beginners who want to start riding safely and successfully — no racing required. 🩺 Start by Talking to Your Doctor Before you hop on a bike, make sure your body is ready. A quick visit to your doctor can help assess your overall health and identify any risks. If you’ve got knee pain, heart concerns, or other limitations, your doctor can help you create a plan that works with your body — not against it. 🎯 Set Realistic, Achievable Goals You don’t need to ride 50 miles your first week. Start small: 20–30 minutes of easy riding a few times a week is perfect. As...

As someone who has been cycling for over 50 years, I’ve experienced the many physical and mental benefits that come from life on two wheels. From improved cardiovascular health to reduced stress and anxiety, cycling has helped me stay active, grounded, and energized well into my retirement years. But I also know the road isn’t always smooth — especially as we age. Staying active as an older cyclist can come with new challenges. Joints may ache a little more. Flexibility might not be what it once was. And staying motivated sometimes requires more than willpower alone. That’s why I’m here — to share what I’ve learned over the years, and to support anyone who wants to keep pedaling toward their goals, no matter their age or limitations. 🚴‍♂️ Start Where You Are — And Set Realistic Goals One of the most powerful things about cycling is that it meets you where you are. Whether you're riding a few miles around the neighborhood or training for a multi-day tour, the key is setting realis...