The Old Guy Bicycle Blog

Over the years, I’ve completed many long-distance cycling tours. One ride I’ve always wanted to do is a full cross-country ride. However, completing it all in one trip has never been realistic due to family dynamics. My child has moderate disabilities that require either my wife or me to always be present for his safety. This impacts nearly everything we do, including my cycling ambitions. Long-distance cycling is my passion, which is why I schedule my rides during the summer. Since my wife is a teacher (and I’m retired), she’s available to stay home with our son while I’m on the road. To be fair to her, I keep my rides between 5 to 15 days rather than being away for a month or more. I’ve already completed several cross-state rides, including two crossings of Texas, as well as rides across New Mexico and Georgia. Riding across the entire country has always been on my bucket list, but reality has kept it out of reach—until recently, when I realized I’ve already covered a significant por...

🚴‍♂️ Real Advice from the Road: Is cycling 10 miles a day enough to lose weight? First, if you are riding 10 miles a day, congratulations. You are getting serious about cycling. Second, for many riders—especially beginners—the answer is yes. Here's what to expect and how to get results faster. Is Cycling 10 Miles a Day Enough to Lose Weight? Cycling is one of the best low-impact exercises out there. It improves cardiovascular health, boosts mental clarity, and yes—it can help with weight loss. But one common question cyclists ask is: “Is cycling 10 miles a day enough to lose weight?” The answer is: it depends. ⚖️ Factors That Affect Weight Loss Weight loss isn't just about how far you ride—it depends on a combination of personal factors, including: Current weight and body composition: Heavier individuals tend to burn more calories initially. Muscle also burns more calories than fat, even at rest. Diet: You can’t out-pedal a poor diet. Weight loss occurs whe...

Quick Answer: Pack light but smart — prioritize comfort, safety, and efficiency. Essentials include helmet, padded shorts, repair kit, hydration, shelter, food, and sun protection. Multi-use gear saves space. 🚴 Gearing Up for the Grind: What to Pack for a Long-Distance Bike Ride Last updated: August 25, 2025 The open road is calling — promising scenic landscapes, quiet moments, and the rewarding fatigue of long miles on two wheels. But before you roll out, there’s one critical step: packing smart . I’ve logged thousands of miles on loaded tours and learned the hard way that overpacking slows you down and underpacking leaves you stranded. Here’s the gear I never leave behind on long-distance rides. --- 🚲 Bike Gear & Riding Essentials Helmet: Always protect your head. See top-rated helmets . Clothing: Padded cycling shorts (my non-negotiable), bright jerseys, a windbreaker, gloves, and cooling sleeves. Check cycling shorts . Repair Kit: Spare tubes, tire le...

🚲 Real Cyclist, Real Talk: I’ve pedaled over 150,000 miles across deserts, cities, and mountain trails. What I know for sure? The bicycle isn’t just good for us—it might just help save the planet. This post digs into why, and how we keep those wheels spinning. Conquering Cobblestones: Can We Save the Earth's Savior, the Bicycle? Forget roaring engines and choked city streets. Imagine gliding down a quiet path, the wind whispering secrets in your ears as your tires hum a soothing rhythm against the asphalt. This isn’t just a peaceful ride—it’s a revolution on two wheels. Cycling isn’t just good for your health and mental clarity. It’s a powerful weapon against climate change , silently slashing emissions, noise, and pollution. Studies show that widespread bicycle use could reduce global CO 2 emissions by up to 7% . That’s not just a drop in the bucket—it’s a tidal wave of change. The Roadblocks to a Cycling Utopia But the ride toward a bicycle-powered world ...