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...

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...