70 Is the New 50 in Cycling

Last Updated: November 24, 2025

Quick Take: I just turned 70, and I’m riding faster, farther, and stronger than I ever did in my 50s. After a 5,000+ mile year and two of my fastest events in more than a decade, I can say it without blinking—70 is the new 50 in cycling.

70 Is the New 50 in Cycling

I turned 70 this month, and I can say something I never thought I’d say: I’m riding better now than I did 15–20 years ago.

I’ve logged over 5,000 miles since January 1st, and this summer gave me two undeniable proof points:

I rode the Hotter’N Hell faster than I ever did in my 50s.
I rode the Day of the Tread 55-mile route in Albuquerque at my fastest pace in 15 years.

And here’s the wild part: that Albuquerque ride wasn’t even supposed to be fast. I didn’t push. I didn’t try. It just… happened. My body simply responded. Strong legs, steady breathing, controlled effort—like everything finally clicked at once.

Why I’m Riding Better at 70 Than I Did at 50

Most people think cycling performance hits the brakes at 60. But I’ve learned something different. At 70, with experience, discipline, and smart training, you can unlock a version of yourself you never expected.

1. I Ride Smarter, Not Harder

I know my body. I pace better. I fuel better. I understand wind, terrain, and effort levels. At 50, I charged everything. At 70, I ride with intention.

2. I Know What Actually Matters

Comfort, efficiency, cadence, and hydration beat brute force every time. Add in a dialed-in bike fit, gear that actually works, and years of experience—and suddenly age has nothing on you.

3. Consistency Beats Youth

People love to talk about “slowing down.” But I’ve stacked thousands of real miles in the past few years. You can’t buy that kind of conditioning. Only the saddle gives it to you.

4. My Why Is Stronger

At 50, I rode because I loved cycling. At 70, I ride because it keeps me healthy, confident, independent, and alive. Purpose fuels performance.

So Yes—70 Really Is the New 50 in Cycling

When your legs feel strong, your endurance holds, your climbing improves, and your recovery time shortens—not because you're trying harder, but because you’ve built the foundation over decades—you realize something:

A number is just a number. Performance is earned.

And this year proved it. I’m not maintaining fitness—I’m still improving.

What This Means for Other Cyclists Over 60

If you’re 60, 65, 70, or older and think your best cycling days are behind you, hear this from someone with real miles, not theory:

You can still get faster. You can still get stronger. You can still surprise yourself.

Set simple goals. Ride consistently. Take pride in small wins. And let the miles build your confidence back up.

Because age doesn’t stop you—quitting does.

Gear That Helps Me Ride Strong at 70

I only link to gear I personally use or that has earned its place on my rides.

My Helmet of Choice (lightweight + trusted) I wear this one.
Arm Sleeves I Never Ride Without - I wear these on every ride.
My Daily Smart Scale (keeps me accountable) - I broke through a long-time weight plateau with the information this scale gives me and ended up dropping an additional 17 pounds to get to my lightest riding weight in over 40 years.

Bottom Line: I’m 70 years old and riding like I’m 50 again. Maybe better. And if I can do it, you can too. See you on the road.

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