My Lifetime Love Affair with Long-Distance Cycling

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My Lifetime Love Affair with Long-Distance Cycling

Quick Answer: Long-distance cycling is more than fitness—it’s freedom, resilience, and discovery. Every mile teaches persistence, perspective, and gratitude. Whether you’re new to endurance rides or a seasoned cyclist, the journey changes you.
Senior cyclist riding toward the sunrise on an empty country road, symbolizing the freedom and endurance of long-distance cycling.

The open road. The wind in my face. The rhythmic hum of tires against pavement. For as long as I can remember, long-distance cycling has been more than a hobby—it’s been a passion, a calling, and a companion through the decades.

Where It All Began

It started simply: a child’s wobbly ride around the block. Those loops quickly turned into laps, and soon, the horizon was calling. My first true long-distance ride—50 miles—felt like a leap into the unknown. Nervous, aching, unsure... but determined. I finished that ride, and in that moment, something clicked. I was hooked for life.

Why Long-Distance Cycling Matters

There’s a special kind of magic in long-distance rides. It’s not about speed or medals. It’s about freedom, solitude, and discovery. When you ride for hours—sometimes days—you enter a rhythm that feels almost meditative. Distractions fade, and clarity sets in.

Each ride becomes a journey not just through landscapes, but through yourself.

Lessons from the Road

  • Resilience: When the climb feels endless and your legs scream, you find strength you didn’t know you had.
  • Perspective: Hills, heat, headwinds—none of it lasts forever. You just keep pedaling.
  • Gratitude: From a cold water bottle handed by a stranger to a stunning sunset after a hard day—gratitude lives on the road.

The Toughest Miles Are the Most Meaningful

Not every ride is glorious. There are moments of doubt, exhaustion, and even regret. But then comes a breakthrough—the summit of a climb, a burst of energy, the welcome sight of a town in the distance. These are the moments that stay with you.

Over time, the hardships blur while the triumphs shine.

Gear That Keeps Me Going

🚴 Gear I Personally Use and Recommend

- RENPHO Solar Smart Scale – I was at a plateau for months until I bought this scale. The information it provided me helped me bust through that plateau and end up losing 17 pounds to get to my perfect riding weight.
- Premium Cycling Bib Shorts – Comfort that makes long rides possible.
- High-Lumen Front and Rear Bike Lights – Safety for early mornings and late nights.
- Wahoo ELEMNT BOLT GPS Computer – Navigation and ride data you can rely on. I use this one. There is a newer version available.

A Lifetime of Rides, and Still More to Come

I’ve crossed state lines, climbed mountain passes, and chased sunrises across wide open plains. And still, every new ride brings the same thrill it did when I was a kid.

This isn’t just exercise. It’s a way of life.

Final Thoughts: Keep Pedaling

To those just starting out or considering a long ride—do it. Chase the miles. Embrace the unknown. Find out what you're capable of. Long-distance cycling isn’t just about where you go. It’s about who you become along the way.

Happy riding—and may the road rise up to meet you.

Disclaimer: This post reflects personal experiences and perspectives. Long-distance cycling may not be suitable for everyone. Always consult with your doctor before starting a new physical activity.

FAQs About Long-Distance Cycling

How far is considered a long-distance ride?

For most recreational cyclists, anything over 40–50 miles is long-distance. For seasoned riders, that might mean 100+ miles (a century ride).

What should I eat on a long ride?

Carbohydrates for energy, electrolytes for hydration, and small amounts of protein for endurance. Energy gels, bananas, and peanut butter sandwiches are staples.

How do I train for long-distance cycling?

Build gradually. Start with moderate rides, increase your weekly mileage by about 10%, and include one progressively longer ride each week. Strength and recovery days matter too.

Is long-distance cycling safe for seniors?

Yes—if approached smartly. Seniors can thrive on long rides with the right bike fit, pacing, hydration, and medical clearance.

Last Updated: August 31, 2025

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Location: Lubbock, TX, USA

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