The Old Guy Bicycle Blog

When Your Wheels Spin Out: Dealing with a Bike Mechanic Mess-Up I am lucky. I have a great bike shop that always does everything it can to make my rides a little better. I have had one issue in 17 years when I went in for a tune up and found out on my ride that the bike was "not right" after my first ride. I returned to the shop and talked to the mechanic and he looked at it and corrected the issue that day. He seemed to appreciate that I came back to talk to him and let him fix the issue without resorting to bad reviews or going to another shop. That is what this post is about. What should you do if you have a similar issue that I did. We trust our local bike shop with our beloved steeds, expecting them to work their magic and send them back purring like well-oiled machines. But what happens when the tune-up turns into a nightmare, and the mechanic's magic touch leaves you with a clunking, grinding, derailed disaster? Fear not, fellow pedal pushers, for there are ways to...

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...

Ah, the age-old cyclist's dilemma: to sweat or to shiver? Both the blazing summer sun and the crisp bite of winter air bring their own challenges—and joys. But for me? There’s no contest. Give me the heat. I’ll gladly take sweat and sunshine over frozen fingers and layers any day of the week. That said, every cyclist has their own rhythm, so let’s take a fair look at both sides of the spectrum before you decide where your pedaling loyalties lie. ☀️ Cycling in the Heat (My Favorite!) Pros: Sunshine and Scenery: There’s something about riding under a big blue sky that lifts my spirit. The world is more alive, colors are more vivid, and the road just feels more inviting. Freedom of Movement: I love shedding the heavy gear and riding in shorts and a jersey. Less bulk means more comfort and a better feel for the road. Hydration Breaks Become Rituals: That cold bottle of water on a hot day? Pure gold. I’ve come to love those little stops—sometimes just to stand in the ...

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...