The Old Guy Bicycle Blog

🛠️ I've been riding for decades and have been lucky to have a great local bike shop that takes care of me. In 19 years, I’ve only had one issue — and even that was handled well. After a tune-up, my bike didn’t feel right on the first ride. I brought it back, calmly explained the issue, and the mechanic immediately took care of it. No bad reviews, no yelling — just a professional exchange that left both of us satisfied. But not everyone’s experience goes that smoothly. So what should you do when your bike comes back from the shop worse than when it went in? Let’s break it down — calmly, clearly, and with a cyclist’s perspective in mind. 🚲 TL;DR: Bike Shop Mess-Up? Here’s What to Do If a recent tune-up left your bike worse than before, don’t panic. Take a test ride, document the issues, and return calmly to the shop. Most mechanics want to make things right. This post walks you through how to handle a bad repair without losing your cool — and how to advocate for yourse...

I really dislike the feeling I get when I get back on my bicycle after a couple of weeks off of it. The best explanation I have is that I feel kind of like an elephant on a bike. Some of you have probably had similar feelings. Read on to see what you can do to get back to the feeling of being a cyclist again. If you've taken a couple of weeks off the bike, you're probably feeling like an elephant when you first get back on. Your legs may feel heavy, your lungs may feel tight, and you may be wondering how you ever made it up that hill in the past. Don't worry, it's perfectly normal to feel this way. Your body just needs some time to get back into the swing of things. Here are a few tips to help you overcome the feeling like an elephant on your bike after a layoff: 1. Take it easy. The most important thing is to take it easy when you first get back on the bike. Don't try to do too much too soon. Start with short, easy rides and gradually increase the distance and inte...

Which Do You Prefer? Cycling in the Heat or the Cold? Last Updated: December 9, 2025 This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Quick Answer: Both heat and cold come with challenges, but as a 70-year-old long-distance cyclist, I’ll take heat every time. Warm muscles, loose layers, and fast hydration stops beat frozen fingers and stiff legs any day. ☀️ Cycling in the Heat (My Pick!) Look — I’ve ridden in every kind of weather West Texas can throw at a person. For me, heat wins. My body feels alive, my cadence is smoother, and I don’t spend half the ride wrestling layers. Pros Sunlight boosts mood & energy: A bright sky hits different when you’re grinding out miles. No bulky layers: Just bib shorts, a jersey, and that’s it. Freedom. Hydration rituals: Cold water on a hot ride is its own religion. Cons Heat sneaks up on you: You don’t feel dehydrated until you’re cooked. Sunburn risk: I’ve ...

I am posting this article in the middle of the summer even though it is about winter cycling. There is a good reason for that. By the time Google indexes this post and it gains traction in Google's organic searches, it will be winter and that is why it is being posted in July. Cycling in cold weather can be a challenging experience, especially when it comes to keeping your extremities warm. In particular, the ears, fingers, and toes are the most vulnerable parts of the body during cold rides. To make your winter cycling experience comfortable and enjoyable, it is essential to invest in the right gear to keep these body parts warm and protected. In this article, we'll take a look at the three most important things to have well covered on cold rides and recommend some products from Amazon that can help you stay warm and comfortable on your winter rides. Ears The ears are one of the most sensitive areas of the body when it comes to cold weather. Exposing them to cold wind can caus...

The years may have passed, but the thrill of the ride hasn’t faded. For senior cyclists, the wind in your hair and the hum of the wheels still spark joy. But what if you could share that joy with someone who matches your rhythm—your cycling soul mate? Finding a riding partner in your golden years isn’t just about fitness—it’s about connection. Shared laughs on scenic trails. Mutual encouragement on steep climbs. Quiet moments as the sun rises behind the hills. Here’s how to find that perfect cycling companion who understands the joy of the ride and the meaning behind it. 1. Look Within Your Riding Circles You don’t have to look far. That person who always matches your pace on group rides? The one who shares your love for old steel frames or early-morning pedals? They might just be your perfect match—on the bike, and maybe beyond. 2. Join Senior-Specific Cycling Groups There are clubs and communities built just for you. Groups like the Adventure Cycling Association’s 50+ Club or Silve...