The Old Guy Bicycle Blog

Some people may view their bicycles as mere means of transportation or a leisurely way to enjoy the outdoors. But for me, my bike is much more than that. It's a companion, a trusted steed that has faithfully carried me through countless miles of adventure and exploration. I can't fathom parting ways with my beloved bicycle until it has exhausted its last pedal stroke. In this blog post, I want to share my perspective on why I ride my bikes until they're completely worn out before getting a new one. A Journey Together: From the moment I first straddled the seat of my bike, I knew we were destined for countless journeys together. Every squeak of the chain, every gust of wind against my face, and every hill conquered only strengthened our bond. We've traversed busy city streets, serene country roads, and rugged mountain trails. Each ride is a testament to the shared experiences and memories we've created over the years. Built-In Reliability: As the miles pile up, my bi...

Can Cycling Help You Lose Belly Fat? If you're trying to lose belly fat, cycling can be a powerful tool to help you reach your goals. It’s a low-impact, joint-friendly cardio workout that burns calories and strengthens muscles. But how much do you really need to cycle to see results—and what else matters? Let’s break it down. 🚴‍♀️ How Cycling Helps Burn Belly Fat Cycling works in two key ways: 1. Burning Calories A moderate 30-minute ride can burn around 250 calories —more if you ride faster or include hills. Burn more calories than you consume, and your body taps into fat stores, including belly fat. 2. Building Muscle Cycling builds lower-body muscle, which increases your resting metabolic rate . That means your body burns more calories even while you’re not riding. More muscle = easier fat loss. ⏱️ How Long Should You Cycle to Lose Belly Fat? It depends on your weight, fitness level, and goals, but here’s a simple guide: Beginners : Start with 30 minutes, 3–4 ti...

Updated August 3, 2025 Thinking about going tubeless for your touring bike? Here’s what I’ve learned after thousands of miles — the good, the bad, and the gear I trust to make it work. By Bruce | The Old Guy Bicycle Blog As an avid cyclist who’s been touring for many years, I’ve experimented with just about every piece of gear you can imagine.  These are the bib shorts I trust now —comfortable enough for 60+ mile days and built to last.  But few changes have had a bigger impact on my riding experience than switching to tubeless tires. 🛞 Fewer Flats, More Fun Since switching to tubeless tires, the number of flats I’ve had has dropped dramatically. I used to carry multiple spare tubes and a patch kit everywhere I went—now I rarely worry about punctures at all. The sealant inside tubeless tires works quickly to plug small holes as they happen, which has saved me from countless roadside repairs and kept my rides rolling. I use Stan’s NoTubes Tire Sealant and have for ye...

Dear 13-Year-Old Me: How Cycling Gave Me Freedom, Health, and Adventure In one sentence: Cycling gave me a life of freedom, health, adventure, and self-discovery —and I’m still riding at 69. Here’s what I wish I’d told my 13-year-old self. Dear 13-year-old me, I’m writing to you from 2025, and I want you to know how much cycling will matter in your life. Why You’ll Fall in Love with the Bike Right now you think riding is boring and slow. Fair. But as you get older, you’ll realize the bike is a ticket. It takes you anywhere without traffic or parking headaches, and it keeps your heart, lungs, and mind strong. Most of all, it opens up a sense of adventure that never really ends. Freedom You’ll ride to clear your head, to explore new towns, to roll past miles of sky you can’t see from a car. The bike will always be there when life gets loud. Health Decades from now, you’ll be grateful for the steady, low-impact work the bike does for you—stronger heart, better wei...

There's nothing quite like the feeling of a bike ride on a beautiful day. The wind in your hair, the sun on your face, and the freedom of the open road. If you're looking for a way to get some exercise, enjoy the outdoors, and explore new places, then a bike ride is the perfect activity for you. In this blog post, I will discuss everything you need to know to plan your perfect bike ride. We'll cover topics such as choosing the right bike, planning your route, packing your essentials, staying safe on the road, and more. Choosing the Right Bike The first step in planning your bike ride is to choose the right bike for your needs. If you're just starting out, you may want to consider a hybrid bike. Hybrid bikes are a good all-around bike that can be used for both road riding and off-road riding. If you're planning on doing a lot of road riding, then you may want to consider a road bike. Road bikes are designed for speed and efficiency, and they're perfect for long-d...

Unraveling the Fat-Burning Benefits Is cycling good for weight loss? Weight loss is a goal shared by many seeking a healthier and more active lifestyle. If you're on the lookout for an enjoyable and effective exercise option, cycling might be the answer you've been searching for. In this blog post, we'll delve into the fat-burning potential of cycling and explore how it can help you achieve your weight loss objectives. Cycling: A Low-Impact Weight Loss Solution One of the reasons cycling stands out as a favorable exercise for weight loss is its low-impact nature. Unlike high-impact exercises, such as running, cycling is gentler on your joints, reducing the risk of injuries. This allows for consistent and sustainable workouts that contribute to gradual, long-term weight loss. Calorie Burning Machine Pedaling away on your bike not only brings a sense of freedom but also burns a significant number of calories. Whether you're cycling through scenic routes or using a station...

As the wheels of time turn, so do the wheels of our bicycles, carrying us through life's adventures. As a seasoned cyclist at the age of 67, I have come to understand the unique challenges that come with riding long-distance tours in my golden years. Nevertheless, with experience and a few well-honed tricks up my sleeve, I've managed to make these rides more enjoyable and fulfilling. In this blog post, I will share my insights on the challenges I've faced and the strategies I employ to make long-distance tours easier, so fellow cycling enthusiasts can continue to embark on epic journeys regardless of age. Embrace the Changing Dynamics As we age, it's crucial to acknowledge that our bodies might not be as resilient as they once were. But don't let that deter you from riding long distances! Embrace the changing dynamics of your body and understand that it may require more care and recovery time. Set Realistic Goals Long-distance tours are exhilarating, but it's es...

I have always referred to my bicycle as a "bicycle" and never a "bike." It's just my personal preference but I know some cyclists who get bent out of shape if you it a bike. They say serious cyclists ride bicycles and recreational cyclists ride bikes. Oh well, to each their own but let's take a deeper look at these two terms. When it comes to two-wheeled transportation, two common terms often dominate the conversation - "bicycle" and "bike." Some may argue that they are simply interchangeable, while others believe they carry distinct connotations. In this blog post, I embark on a journey to unravel the nuances between owning a bicycle and possessing a bike. By exploring their histories, uses, and cultural associations, we hope to shed light on what makes each mode of transport unique. 1. The Origins and Evolution The term "bicycle" finds its roots in the early 19th century when the first human-powered two-wheeled vehicle was inv...

Are you an endurance cyclist looking for a way to improve your performance? Caffeine can be a powerful ally, providing you with a boost of energy, focus, and endurance. How Does Caffeine Work? Caffeine is a stimulant that blocks the effects of adenosine, a neurotransmitter that makes you feel tired. This allows caffeine to increase your alertness, focus, and energy levels. Caffeine can also help to reduce the perception of effort, making those long rides feel less daunting. How Much Caffeine Should You Take? The amount of caffeine that is right for you will vary depending on your individual tolerance. A good starting point is 3-6 mg of caffeine per kilogram of body weight. You can experiment with different doses to find what works best for you. How to Stay Hydrated Caffeine can dehydrate you, so it's important to stay hydrated when you're taking it. Drink plenty of water throughout the day, and especially before, during, and after your rides. Other Considerations If you're ...

Last updated August 15, 2025 Cycling vs. Running: Why Cycling Is the Best Exercise Choice for Seniors Quick Answer: Both running and cycling can help seniors stay fit and healthy, but cycling wins for most older adults. It’s low-impact on the joints, improves cardiovascular health, and can be done at any fitness level—indoors or outdoors—making it a safer, more sustainable choice. At 69 years old and still riding thousands of miles each year, I’ve learned one thing: staying active as we age isn’t optional—it’s essential. Many seniors I meet tell me they’re torn between cycling and running. Both are great workouts, but after decades of doing both, I can confidently say that cycling has the edge for most older riders. Here’s why. Running for Seniors: The Pros and Cons Running is a classic workout with undeniable benefits. It strengthens bones and muscles, boosts cardiovascular health, burns calories fast, and can be a great stress reliever. For those who enjoy a solo, med...

If you're a regular cyclist or just starting out, keeping a log of your rides can be a great way to track your progress and keep yourself motivated. Whether you're cycling for fun, fitness, or commuting, there are a variety of benefits to keeping a record of your rides. Why Keep a Log of Your Rides? Track Your Progress: By logging your rides, you can keep track of how far you've ridden, how fast you've gone, and how long you've been cycling. This information can help you set goals and track your progress as you become a better cyclist. Motivation: Seeing your progress and achievements can help keep you motivated to continue cycling. It can also be satisfying to look back at your rides and see how far you've come. Safety: Keeping a log of your rides can also help you stay safe. You can note any potential hazards you encountered on your ride, such as a busy intersection or a pothole, and avoid them in the future. Plan Future Rides: By keeping a record of your r...

  Cycling is a great way to stay active and enjoy the outdoors, but it can be physically demanding, especially when it comes to long-distance rides. As you pedal away, it's important to keep your body fueled and hydrated. However, not all sources of hydration are created equal, and one of the biggest culprits for causing issues during a ride is sugary soda. While sugary soda may provide a quick energy boost, it can have serious negative effects on a cyclist's body during a long-distance ride. Here are a few reasons why: Blood sugar spikes and crashes : When you consume sugary soda, your blood sugar levels spike, providing a quick burst of energy. However, this energy is short-lived, and your blood sugar levels will quickly drop, leaving you feeling fatigued and sluggish. This can be particularly dangerous during a long-distance ride, as it can cause a cyclist to hit a wall and struggle to complete the remaining miles. Dehydration: Sugary soda contains a high amount of sugar an...

🚴‍♂️ Quick Take: Cyclists aren’t snobs—most are everyday people who love riding. A few ignore others on the road, but the majority are friendly, approachable, and eager to share their passion for cycling. Last updated: August 17, 2025 Cycling Snobs on Bicycles: Breaking the Stereotype Cycling is one of the most popular ways to get around, stay fit, and find freedom on two wheels. Yet, for some reason, there’s a lingering stereotype that cyclists are elitist snobs. I’ve heard it more times than I can count—and honestly, it’s both unfair and inaccurate. Where Does the “Cycling Snob” Image Come From? High-end bikes and gear: Carbon frames, flashy kits, and $200 sunglasses give the impression that cycling is only for the wealthy. In reality, plenty of riders are on second-hand bikes or budget-friendly setups that work just fine. Competitive culture: In road cycling especially, group rides and races can create an intimidating atmosphere for newcomers. The focus on watts...

Last updated August 10, 2025 Let’s Talk About That Sore Butt I’ve logged thousands of miles — and yes, I’ve had rides where I could barely sit down. But I’ve also found what works. If you're an avid cyclist, you've probably experienced that uncomfortable soreness in your backside after a long ride. A sore butt from cycling — commonly known as saddle sores — is one of the most frequent complaints among new and experienced riders alike. Quick Answer: Cycling soreness happens when pressure, friction, and moisture irritate your sit bones and soft tissue. The fix? Get a proper bike fit, wear quality padded shorts, pick a saddle that matches your anatomy, use chamois cream, and stand or shift often during long rides. My quick comfort trio: these three keep me riding pain-free. Comfort saddle with memory foam padding — supports the sit bones without bulk. Chamois Butt'r Anti-Chafing Stick — I don’t start long rides without it. I use the stick but ...

Before I get into the way to perform an emergency tire repair using a dollar bill, let me tell you what happened to me. I was riding about 40 miles out in the middle of nowhere one day. I was in a place that I couldn't even get phone service. I heard my tire explode so I stopped and got off of my bike to check out the damage. The tire had as decent size hole in it. I had a blow out. I knew I could put a spare tube in it but the problem was that the tube would squeeze through the hole in my tire and would go flat. What could I do? I had read to keep a dollar bill in the bike bag because it could help fix this very thing. I used it and it actually worked. Of course, the tire was not as tight as it would normally be but I was able to air it up enough to get home and go get another tire. It is repairs like this that you need to be prepared for if you are going to ride long distances because things happen and you might have to use an emergency fix to get back home. Read on to see how to...