The Old Guy Bicycle Blog

One of the top bicycle searches is "best bike shop near me." This blog is read all over the world so I can't very well tell everyone that comes here what the best bike shop in their location is. Yes, I do have a favorite bike shop in Lubbock, Texas. It is Velocity Bike Shop on 50th Street. I have been using Velocity since I moved to Lubbock in 2006 and I am convinced it is the best bike shop anywhere. Below, I discuss what makes a bike shop the best but first let me tell you a short story of why I love Velocity Bike Shop in Lubbock. The story will give you an idea of why you should always trade at a bike shop and not a big discount store like Walmart. I bought a Specialized AWOL in 2014. I rode that bicycle a lot. It was my favorite bike of all time and it was my trusty touring bike.  Starting in 2014, I rode at least one long distance tour every year through 2019. I took the bike to Velocity on a regular schedule and kept it it tip-top condition. I had decided around Dec...

Cycling is one of the best ways to stay active, boost your mood, and improve your overall health. But like any form of exercise, it comes with questions — and one that’s been making the rounds lately is this: Can cycling harm your heart? In this post, we’ll explore both the potential risks and proven benefits of cycling for heart health, and how to ride smart if you're concerned about your ticker. 🚨 The Potential Risks of Cycling for Your Heart While cycling is generally safe for most people, there are two scenarios where it could strain your heart: 1. Overtraining or Excessive Exercise Pushing your body too hard without proper rest can stress the heart muscle. Over time, this might lead to inflammation or even arrhythmias (irregular heart rhythms), especially in endurance athletes. 2. Exercising in Extreme Heat Riding in hot conditions can cause your core body temperature to rise. When your body struggles to cool down, your heart works harder — increasing the risk of d...

Quick Answer: The best way to recover from a long bike ride is to cool down gradually, hydrate with electrolytes, refuel with carbs and protein (like a Premier Protein Shake), stretch gently, and prioritize quality sleep. Cycling is a fantastic way to stay fit and enjoy the outdoors. But after a long ride, your body needs recovery just as much as it needs training miles. As a long-distance senior cyclist, I’ve learned that recovery is the secret to riding stronger the next day. 1. Cool Down Slowly Don’t slam the brakes at the end of your ride. Spend 5–10 minutes spinning easy or even walking. This gradual transition helps your heart rate, breathing, and blood flow normalize. 2. Hydrate With Purpose Water should be your first choice, but if the ride was intense or hot, replace lost electrolytes. I often mix in a hydration tab or sip a low-sugar sports drink to speed recovery. 3. Refuel With Protein and Carbs Your muscles are hungry after long miles. Pair carbs (fruit, o...

A flat stomach is often seen as a sign of good health and fitness. While there is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of how to get a flat stomach, cycling is a great way to burn calories and reduce body fat. In this blog post, we will discuss the following: How cycling can help you lose belly fat The best way to cycle for fat loss Other things you can do to get a flat stomach How Cycling Can Help You Lose Belly Fat Cycling is a low-impact aerobic exercise that is gentle on your joints. It is also a calorie-burning activity, which means that it can help you lose weight. A study published in the journal "Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise" found that cycling is an effective way to reduce belly fat. The study participants who cycled for 30 minutes, 3 times per week, lost significantly more belly fat than those who did not exercise. The Best Way to Cycle for Fat Loss To get the most out of cycling for fat loss, it is important to do it at a moderate intensit...

Cycling is a great way to get exercise. It's a low-impact activity that's easy on your joints, and it's a great way to improve your cardiovascular health. Cycling can also help you lose weight, build muscle, and improve your overall fitness level but is cycling a good exercise overall? I was once a long distance runner, but absolutely destroyed my knee because of the unreliability of running shoes back in the 1970's.  I have had multiple operations and finally had to resort to a total knee replacement. I turned to cycling when running became difficult and have never looked back. Cycling changed my life and my health for the better and I am lucky I found it.  In this blog post, I'll take a closer look at the benefits of cycling and discuss whether or not it's a good exercise for you. I will also provide some tips for getting started with cycling and making the most of your workouts. I am going to briefly list the benefits of cycling below and then take a single p...

I’ll admit it — I’m not exactly the poster child for clean eating. If Cheetos counted as a complete food group, I’d have Olympic-level nutrition. But even I know that what you eat before and after a ride matters. So I did some digging into what cyclists should be eating — and here’s what I found. 🚴‍♂️ Why Nutrition Matters for Cyclists Cycling is great exercise, but your body needs the right fuel to perform well, recover faster, and avoid feeling like you got run over by your own bike. What you eat before and after your ride can make a big difference. 🥣 What to Eat Before a Ride The goal is simple: give your body sustained energy without upsetting your stomach. That means easy-to-digest, carb-focused meals about 2–3 hours before you hop on the bike. Smart pre-ride meals: Oatmeal with fruit and nuts Greek yogurt with granola and berries Whole-wheat toast with peanut butter and banana Scrambled eggs with avocado toast A fruit smoothie with yogurt and protein pow...

Cycling is a popular form of exercise and transportation around the world. It offers numerous health benefits, including cardiovascular fitness, weight management, and improved mental health. However, in recent years, concerns have been raised about the potential link between cycling and erectile dysfunction (ED) in male cyclists. In this blog post, I will explore this issue and examine the evidence to determine whether cycling causes erectile dysfunction in cyclists. What is Erectile Dysfunction? Erectile dysfunction is a condition where a man has difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection sufficient for sexual intercourse. It can be caused by various factors such as age, health conditions, and lifestyle habits. It can be a temporary or chronic condition and can affect men of all ages. Cycling and Erectile Dysfunction There is evidence to suggest that cycling may be associated with erectile dysfunction in male cyclists. The theory behind this link is that the pressure exerted by ...

Cycling is a popular activity that has many benefits for your physical and mental health. Not only is it a great form of cardiovascular exercise, but it can also help to build muscle, improve flexibility, and reduce stress. In this blog post, we will explore how cycling can change your body. Cardiovascular Cycling Benefits Cycling is a low-impact form of aerobic exercise that can significantly improve cardiovascular health. The benefits of cycling on the cardiovascular system are numerous and well-documented. One of the most noticeable changes that cycling can have on your body is an improvement in heart health. Aerobic exercise, such as cycling, is beneficial for cardiovascular health because it strengthens the heart muscle, reduces blood pressure, and improves overall fitness. When you cycle, your heart rate increases, and your body demands more oxygen, which causes your heart to work harder. Over time, this increased workload can help to strengthen your heart muscle, making it more...

If you're a senior cyclist looking for an exciting way to explore the United States, a cross-country cycling tour might be just the adventure you're looking for. With two primary routes to choose from - the Northern Tier and Southern Tier - you have a lot to consider before you hit the road. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at the differences between these two popular routes, so you can make an informed decision about which one is best for your goals and preferences. Northern Tier Route The Northern Tier Route is a 4,265-mile journey that takes cyclists from Anacortes, Washington, to Bar Harbor, Maine, through some of the most scenic and remote areas of the northern United States. While this route offers breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains, the Great Lakes region, and the Atlantic Coast, it is not for the faint of heart. The Northern Tier is known for its challenging terrain, with long stretches of steep mountain climbs and descents. Cyclists will also enco...

Bicycling has become an increasingly popular mode of transportation and recreation in the United States. As more people turn to cycling for exercise, commuting, and leisure activities, the need for safe and accessible bike trails has become increasingly important. One proposal that has gained attention in recent years is the creation of a bicycle trail that runs from the east coast to the west coast of the United States, exclusively for bicycles and pedestrians. This proposal raises the question: should the United States government pass a bill funding the creation of a safe, no-automobiles-allowed bicycle trail that runs from coast to coast? There are a number of reasons why such a trail would be beneficial to the United States. First and foremost, it would provide a safe and healthy mode of transportation for commuters and travelers. With the rising costs of gasoline and the increasing importance of reducing carbon emissions, cycling offers an affordable and eco-friendly alternative t...

Let’s take a break from gear reviews and riding tips to dive into the world of cycling on the big screen . Whether you're into intense race documentaries or fictional underdog stories, here are the top cycling films that every rider (or fan) should watch. 🎬 1. Breaking Away (1979) Still one of the most beloved cycling films ever made. This coming-of-age drama follows a group of working-class teens in Indiana training for the “Little 500” race. Emotional, funny, and full of heart. 📺 Watch on Amazon 🎬 2. The Flying Scotsman (2006) Based on the true story of Graeme Obree, who built his own bike and broke the world hour record—while battling depression and inner demons. 🎬 3. A Sunday in Hell (1976) Often called the greatest cycling documentary ever made. It covers the brutal 1976 Paris-Roubaix race and offers a gritty, real look at professional road racing. 🎬 4. The Racer (2020) — New Addition Set during the 1998 Tour de France, this gripping drama follows a domes...

Cycling is one of the best ways to get around—it's healthy, environmentally friendly, and, for many of us, deeply enjoyable. But let's face it: riding a bicycle on roads shared with cars can sometimes feel dangerous, even hostile. Most cyclists have stories—mine include beer bottles hurled from moving cars, drivers swerving aggressively, being cursed at, and even threatened. Sadly, this kind of road rage directed at cyclists isn't rare. So, why is there so much tension between drivers and cyclists? 🚗 Why Some Drivers Seem to Dislike Cyclists There are a few common reasons: Cyclists are seen as a nuisance. Drivers may get frustrated when a cyclist slows down traffic or makes a move they didn’t anticipate. Perception of lawlessness. Some drivers believe cyclists ignore traffic rules—running red lights, riding the wrong way, or weaving through traffic. Safety fears. Drivers sometimes feel nervous around cyclists, worrying that a collision could be their fault—even ...

🚴 Real Advice from the Road: I’ve ridden tens of thousands of miles — and wearing cycling shorts the wrong way can ruin your ride fast. Here’s how to do it right. How to Wear Cycling Shorts Properly (So They Actually Work) Cycling shorts are one of the best upgrades a cyclist can make — but only if they’re worn properly. Done right, they reduce chafing, wick sweat, and make long rides significantly more comfortable. Done wrong, they can cause more pain than they prevent. Whether you’re just getting into cycling or looking to improve your comfort on longer rides, this guide covers everything you need to know about wearing cycling shorts correctly. 📏 1. Choose the Right Size Fit is everything. Cycling shorts should be snug but not constricting. Too loose, and they’ll bunch up and chafe. Too tight, and they’ll cut into your thighs or waist. Always check the brand’s size chart before ordering — sizing varies between manufacturers. 🩳 2. Pick the Right Style: B...

A lot of people come to my blog with the question about how to lose weight by cycling. I try to answer this question in as many ways as possible. Today, I am going to get just a bit into the science of losing weight, but here is the truth, just go ride consistently and you will lose weight but be patient. Are you intrigued by the idea of losing weight while indulging in a fun and exhilarating activity? Look no further than cycling! Beyond the sheer enjoyment, cycling offers numerous scientifically-proven health benefits, including effective weight loss. In this blog post, we'll delve into the science of losing weight by cycling, equipping you with evidence-based strategies to kickstart your journey towards a fitter and healthier you. Tap into the Science of Weight Loss: Weight loss occurs when you burn more calories than you consume. Cycling serves as an excellent tool for achieving this calorie deficit. Depending on your weight, intensity, and duration of the ride, cycling can bur...

Bicycle touring is one of the most rewarding ways to see the world — combining adventure, fitness, and the simple joy of the open road. But whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a cross-country journey, what you wear can make or break your ride . The right gear keeps you comfortable, dry, and safe no matter the conditions. Here’s how to build the perfect bike touring wardrobe that balances function, comfort, and smart packing . 1. 👕 Prioritize All-Day Comfort When you’re riding for hours — sometimes days — in a row, comfort becomes non-negotiable . Choose clothes that: Fit well and reduce chafing Are made from moisture-wicking materials like merino wool or synthetic blends Help regulate body temperature and minimize odor Avoid cotton — it traps sweat and dries slowly, which can lead to discomfort or even saddle sores. 2. 🎒 Pack Versatile Clothing for Changing Conditions Space is limited, so every item you bring should earn its place. Look for: Conver...