The Old Guy Bicycle Blog

Quick Answer: For most riders, cycling does not harm sexual health or libido—and often improves it thanks to better cardiovascular fitness. But poor saddle fit, long hours in the saddle, and ignored numbness can cause issues over time. The fix: posture adjustments, padded shorts, and rest breaks. Does Cycling Affect Libido? What the Science Really Says Cycling is widely celebrated for its benefits: stronger hearts, higher endurance, and lower stress. But one question never quite goes away—does time in the saddle hurt sexual health? Here’s a look at what the research (2018–2021) says, plus practical ways to ride smarter. 🟢 No Negative Effects in Most Cases A 2018 study in the Journal of Sexual Medicine followed 128 men aged 50–71 who cycled 3+ hours per week. It found no negative impact on sexual function. In fact, cyclists reported better erectile function and sexual satisfaction than non-cyclists. 🔺 Increased Sensation for Women A 2020 study on 46 women ...

Riding a multi-day tour  is a thrilling and rewarding adventure—but if it’s your first time, it’s natural to have a lot of questions. Whether you're going solo or joining a group, the right preparation can make all the difference. Below, I’ve answered some of the most common questions based on my own experience riding thousands of miles across Texas , New Mexico , and beyond. 🧳 How Do I Pack for a Multi-Day Bike Tour ? Packing takes planning. I always start by laying out my gear days in advance and checking it off a list. My advice: Pack light . You’ll feel every extra pound, especially on hills or in the wind. Use layers . Lightweight, breathable clothing that can be layered is ideal. Think waterproof . I use plastic bags inside my main bags or trailer—this saved my gear during a flood once. Essentials : Tools, spare tubes, sunscreen, toiletries, insect repellent, and plenty of snacks. 💡 In 2020, I stayed in hotels to skip carrying my tent and sleeping bag—cutting ...

Last Updated: November 25, 2025 Quick Answer: Visualization works. Mental imagery helps cyclists push through fatigue, climb harder, stay calm, and ride farther. It’s a tool I used during my 962-mile ride across Texas—and it can help any rider stay focused and strong. As a 70-year-old cyclist who still rides long tours, I can tell you this without hesitation: physical training gets you ready for the ride—but mental training gets you through the ride. And nothing has helped me more than visualization. When you’re preparing for multi-day tours, headwinds, climbs, or the kind of tough miles that make you question your sanity, your mind becomes just as important as your legs. Visualization is the quiet weapon most riders ignore—and they’re leaving real performance on the table. What Is Visualization? Visualization—also called mental imagery or mental rehearsal —is the focused practice of imagining yourself performing well in a specific situation. This...

🚴 Gear I Use and Trust: After riding well over 150,000 miles through deserts, mountains, and everything in between, I’ve learned what works. The BOB trailer has been with me on some of my longest journeys—and I wouldn’t tour without it. Why the BOB Trailer Is Still My Go-To for Long-Distance Touring That is my BOB trailer behind a Specialized Diverge pictured above, somewhere in Texas. When it comes to long-distance bike touring, the right gear isn't a luxury—it's a necessity. And one piece of gear that’s earned a permanent place in my touring setup is the BOB trailer . From New Mexico to Florida and everywhere in between, this trailer has never let me down. Mine has seen the miles: two full tours across New Mexico , a cross-country haul from Lubbock to Pensacola.., and routes that spanned Texas from border to border. Through it all, the BOB trailer has proven one thing—it’s a workhorse. 🔧 Simplicity that Just Works The design of the BOB trailer i...

According to the European Cyclists’ Federation , if just 10% of urban trips were made by bike instead of car, cities could reduce their carbon dioxide emissions by 7% . This remarkable figure shows the powerful role cycling can play in addressing climate change while improving urban life. So how can cities promote cycling as a viable and attractive transportation option? Here are five proven strategies that have worked in cities around the world. 1. Build Better Bike Infrastructure Infrastructure is the foundation of a bike-friendly city. Research shows that people are more likely to cycle in places with dedicated bike lanes and separated bike paths (Buehler, Pucher, & Dill, 2016). These structures reduce the risk of crashes, improve rider confidence, and create a safer, more enjoyable experience. Bike lanes : These marked areas, often separated from car traffic by lines or physical barriers, reduce collisions and make riding less stressful. Separated bike paths : Physi...

Cycling is a great way to get exercise, explore new places, and enjoy the outdoors. Whether you're a casual cyclist or a serious athlete, having the right bicycle clothing is essential for comfort, safety, and performance. I believe in buying most of my cycling gear at my local bike shop—not only because it’s high-quality and backed with a guarantee, but also because it supports a local business that understands what cyclists need. In this post, we'll cover the core bicycle clothing essentials and what to look for when choosing your gear. Cycling Shorts Cycling shorts are one of the most important essentials for any rider. They provide comfort and support during long rides by reducing friction and preventing chafing. Engineered to fit snugly and move with your body, they’re made from stretchy, breathable materials that allow excellent mobility. The key feature is the chamois —padding that cushions your sit bones and reduces pressure on sensitive areas. This can make the differ...

The Real Cost of “Expensive” Bikes Sticker shock— $2,000 for a quality bicycle —stops many would-be riders in their tracks. Yet the average American spent $1,200 out-of-pocket on healthcare in 2018 alone. Project that across five years and you’ve shelled out $6,000 —triple the price of a reliable, well-fitted bike that can slash those very medical bills. Cycling Turned My Health Around Weight loss: Regular rides helped me chip away at decades-old obesity. Lower blood pressure: Consistent aerobic exercise let me ditch costly prescriptions. Fewer doctor visits: Better fitness equals fewer co-pays, lab fees, and missed workdays. Five Reasons a Quality Bike Saves Money Durability: Premium frames, wheels, and components last for tens of thousands of miles. Low maintenance: Modern drivetrains and disc brakes need simple, inexpensive upkeep anyone can learn. Preventive medicine: Cardio workouts on wheels cut long-term risks of heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. Mental-he...

  A rare photo of me doing what I love most: riding solo. Last Updated: November 17, 2025 Why I Prefer Riding Alone (And Why It Makes Me a Better Cyclist) Quick Take: I’ve ridden well over 150,000 miles, and while I enjoy a good group ride now and then, I’m a solo rider at heart. Riding alone gives me freedom, focus, and the kind of quiet challenge that keeps me coming back to the bike year after year. When you spend as many miles in the saddle as I have, you start learning something about yourself. One of my truths is simple: I’m a solo rider at heart. I don’t hate group rides. I’ve done plenty of them, and some have been a blast. But when it comes down to the kind of riding that actually resets my brain, strengthens my spirit, and keeps me hungry for the next mile? I want to be alone. Solo Riding = Real Freedom When it’s just me and my bike, I get to ride exactly how I want: My pace: fast, slow, or somewhere in that “old...

Riding a bicycle is an excellent way to stay active, enjoy the outdoors, and reduce your carbon footprint. But sharing the road—especially with cars and unpredictable surfaces—comes with its own set of risks. To ride confidently and safely, cyclists need to stay alert and learn how to handle common road hazards. Here’s what to watch out for—and how to avoid trouble on the road. Common Road Hazards for Cyclists 1. Potholes Potholes are one of the most common dangers. Hitting one at high speed can damage your wheels or throw you off your bike. Avoid them by: Scanning the road 10–15 feet ahead. Steering around them if it's safe. Rising slightly off your saddle when hitting one to absorb the impact with your legs. 2. Loose Gravel Gravel reduces traction, especially in corners or when braking. It’s most dangerous on shoulders, intersections, and rural roads. Stay safe by: Slowing down before turning or braking. Riding in a straight line through gravel sections...

As someone who was once a marathon runner, switching to cycling wasn’t part of the plan—it was a necessity. After a serious knee injury I had to give up the pounding pavement. What began as a rehab-friendly activity became something much more: a lifestyle, a passion, and a gateway to adventure. Touring cycling has not only preserved my fitness, but it’s enriched my life in ways I never expected. Here’s why touring cycling might just be the best decision you ever make. 1. It's Gentle on the Joints Let’s start with the obvious: cycling is low-impact . After knee surgery, I needed movement that wouldn’t aggravate my joints. Cycling gave me a way to stay active, build strength, and protect my knees—all while feeling the joy of movement again. 2. You Can Explore So Much More One of the greatest joys of touring cycling is how much ground you can cover . Unlike running, which limits how far you can reasonably go in a day, cycling allows you to travel dozens of miles without pushing...

Riding a bicycle is more than just a great way to stay healthy and active—it's also eco-friendly, fun, and liberating. Whether you're a beginner or someone getting back into the saddle, it's normal to have questions. Below are 11 of the most frequently asked questions about biking—and their answers—to help you ride safely and confidently. 1. Do I Need a License to Ride a Bicycle? In most countries, no license is required to ride a regular, non-motorized bicycle. However, cyclists must follow local rules—such as wearing a helmet, using lights at night, and riding in bike lanes when available. For e-bikes , rules vary. Some areas may require registration, permits, or restrict e-bike use by speed or class. If you're using a bike for commercial purposes (like deliveries), you may also need additional permits. 2. Which Side of the Road Should I Ride On? In the U.S. and most countries, cyclists should ride on the right-hand side , with traffic. In places like the U.K. ...