Should a 70-Year-Old Ride a Bike?
Most seniors don’t stop cycling because they’re weak — they stop because they’re scared. Scared of falling. Scared of traffic. Scared their body won’t cooperate. If that’s you, I understand. I’ve been there.
Fast-forward: more than 155,000 lifetime miles, a 962-mile ride across Texas at 65, and now — at 70 — I’m still riding and training. I average about 140 miles a week, and none of it started heroic.
You don’t need toughness. You need consistency. Short, easy rides stacked over time rebuild strength, balance, and confidence.
Get Rid of the Fear:
I'm 70 and still riding a lot. I still have fear and that is why I am giving you the following box first. These are actual items I use to make cycling both fear free and comfortable.
These aren’t accessories. They remove the exact fears that cause seniors to quit riding — falling, traffic, and discomfort. If riding feels intimidating right now, start with just one.
- A Helmet You’ll Actually Wear (Start Here If You’re Nervous): Giro Fixture II MIPS — the helmet I ride in at 70. Comfortable, not bulky, and it helps take the edge off fear when getting back on the bike.
- Confidence Around Traffic: Take A Look rearview mirror — the mirror I use. It lets me see what’s coming without constantly looking over my shoulder. This mirror has kept me safe since 2014 and has saved my life on at least 3 occasions.
- The Newest and Best Invention for Cyclist Safety: Garmin Varia - This is such a fantastic addition to cyclist's gear. You really need to check it out. It is my latest addition.
- Comfort That Prevents Quitting: Thinner-pad bib shorts — the ones I wear. Thicker pads aren’t better; comfort keeps you riding next week. Want a thicker pad? Here You Go
- Padded Gloves for Control: HTZPLOO padded gloves — my pick. Better grip, less hand pain, and more braking confidence.
Why Cycling at 70 Is Worth It
Cycling is one of the best exercises for an aging body — because it gives you benefits without punishing your joints.
- ❤️ Heart & lungs: steady cardio without impact.
- 🦵 Joints: far kinder than walking or running.
- ⚖️ Balance: quietly trains stability.
- 🌞 Mood: sunlight and motion clear mental fog.
- 🚴 Freedom: you can go farther than on foot.
The Real Risk Isn’t Age — It’s Avoidable Mistakes
You don’t need speed at 70. You need predictability.
- Ride in daylight at first
- Choose calm routes
- Assume drivers don’t see you
- Leave extra stopping distance
- Don’t test yourself on day one
Most crashes don’t happen because someone is 70. They happen because the rider pushed too hard, too soon, or skipped basic safety systems.
For deeper safety strategies, read: Top Cycling Visibility Tips .
How to Start — and Keep Going
If you haven’t ridden in a while, forget fitness goals. Your goal is rhythm.
- 15–20 minutes, 3–4 times a week
- Add five minutes every few rides
- Easy enough to talk
- Stop before you’re wrecked
Consistency beats intensity — especially at 70.
✅ My Cycling Gear: What I Actually Use - This is everything that I use and stand behind.
Final Thoughts
If you’re 70 and thinking about riding again, you’re not foolish — you’re smart.
Start easy. Fix the things that make riding feel risky. Build rhythm before ambition.
You might be surprised how fast “maybe I can” turns into “I’m back.”
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