The Old Guy Bicycle Blog

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By Bruce | The Old Guy Bicycle Blog

I’ll be upfront: I don’t drink.

Not because I never did, and not because I think it’s evil. I just know what it does to the body — and more importantly, what it does to performance.

After decades in the saddle, I’ve seen plenty of cyclists try to balance training, touring, or racing with regular alcohol use. And I’ve also seen how that usually plays out: slower recovery, more fatigue, and poor decisions that cost people rides, results, or worse.

This isn’t a lecture — just a reflection from someone who rides a lot, trains seriously, and has chosen not to make alcohol part of the picture.

🍺 What Alcohol Does (Even in Small Amounts)

When you drink, your body stops what it’s doing to process the alcohol. That includes things like muscle repair, hydration, and brain function — which are pretty important if you’re cycling long distances or trying to stay sharp in traffic.

Here’s what I’ve observed in others — and why I stay away from alcohol before, during, or after riding:

💧 1. Dehydration

Alcohol acts as a diuretic, meaning it makes you lose water fast. That’s a bad combo with heat, exertion, and long hours in the saddle.

🤸‍♂️ 2. Impaired Balance and Coordination

Even a little bit can throw off your reaction time or sense of balance — two things you want to keep intact when you're navigating potholes, group rides, or high-speed descents.

🧠 3. Slowed Reflexes

Split-second decisions save lives on the bike. I’ve seen good riders make poor calls after a few drinks the night before. It’s not always obvious… until it is.

💤 4. Lower Energy and Motivation

Alcohol may help some people fall asleep faster, but the quality of that sleep is poor. And poor sleep means sluggish rides and lack of motivation the next day.

🔁 5. Slower Recovery

Even moderate drinking can delay the muscle repair process. When you’re training or touring day after day, that adds up fast.

🧭 My Approach: Simple, Sober, Strong

I’ve never needed alcohol to enjoy a ride, celebrate a finish line, or unwind after a long day in the saddle. In fact, I think not drinking has helped me stay stronger, more consistent, and more dialed in — especially as I’ve gotten older.

If you drink, that’s your call. I’ve got no judgment.
But if you’ve been wondering whether it’s helping or hurting your rides — especially long-distance or endurance efforts — it’s worth stepping back and taking an honest look.

👇 Tips for Riders Who Do Choose to Drink

• Hydrate like crazy if you’re drinking after a ride
• Avoid alcohol before or during long rides — that one’s a deal-breaker
• Eat real food when you drink — it slows absorption
• Respect your limits — especially as you age
• Don’t ride or drive under the influence — ever

🚴‍♂️ Final Thought: Your Bike Deserves Your Best

Cycling takes effort. Passion. Focus.
I choose to show up for it clear-headed and fully present.

For me, skipping alcohol isn’t a sacrifice. It’s an edge.
And the older I get, the more I’m glad I made that choice.