The Old Guy Bicycle Blog

Last Updated: August 20, 2025 — minor edits for clarity. Quick Answer: Anyone can become a cyclist—start small and stay consistent. I went from gasping around the block to pedaling across states in my late 60s. The hardest part isn’t the miles—it’s believing you can begin. There’s something about a bicycle that makes people stop and ask questions. The simplicity of two wheels carrying someone so far stirs something in them. I’ve lost count of the times a stranger has pointed at my touring bike and trailer and asked, “Where are you headed?” or “How far have you come?” I smile because I know that feeling. I still ²2² the day circling my own block left me winded and a little embarrassed. I didn’t start with marathons or mountain climbs—I started by saying yes to that first short ride, then a little farther the next time. Decades later, I’ve pedaled across states, up canyons, through heat, wind, and rain. From the saddle, the world doesn’t rush by—it unfolds. And here’...

The Two Things That Changed My Riding Forever Quick Tip: If you're only going to invest in two pieces of cycling gear, make it a quality helmet and a good pair of bib shorts. One protects your life. The other protects your ride. After riding more than 150,000 miles, I’ve tested a lot of gear — some of it good, some of it gimmicky. But two things stand out as absolute game-changers for me: my helmet and my bib shorts. 🚴 The Helmet: Non-Negotiable Safety I used to think helmets were just another accessory. That changed the day I crashed hard. My helmet cracked — and so did my view of “optional” safety. There’s no way around it: a quality, well-fitting helmet is the single most important piece of gear you can wear. And if you haven’t upgraded in a few years, do it. Helmet safety tech improves all the time. Mine now has MIPS technology — a small layer inside that helps reduce rotational forces on impact. It’s not hype. It’s smart design. ✅ My Recommended Helmet: Ch...

Let’s get something straight right from the start. This isn’t a list that tells you to wear a helmet or bring your phone. That’s a given. If you’re reading this, I’m going to assume you’re already riding with the basics: A good helmet Cycling shoes and padded shorts A jersey and gloves A cycling computer or phone to track your ride But what about the other stuff ? The items you don’t think about until you’re 15 miles from home with a flat tire, sunburned arms, or cars buzzing past you too close for comfort? That’s what this post is about— the 5 most important items I always take on every ride (no matter how short or long), in addition to the gear above. Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, I may earn a small commission—at no extra cost to you. I only recommend gear I personally use and trust on my own rides. These are the unsung heroes that keep me comfortable, safe, and prepared. 1. Flat Repair Kit...

Updated August 25, 2025 🧠 Cycling is one of the best ways to stay active, but protecting your head is non-negotiable. Whether you're riding around the neighborhood or training for a long-distance tour, wearing a reliable helmet is essential. In this post, I've gathered a list of highly rated bike helmets for adults —each selected for comfort, safety, and value. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases, so if you click a link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting the blog! By the way, The Giro Fixture MIPS II Helmet is the one I use. 🚴‍♂️ My Top Bike Helmet Picks for 2025 1. Giro Fixture MIPS Adult Mountain Bike Helmet (My Pick) This is the helmet I wear every ride. The Giro Fixture fits better, runs cooler, and feels more secure on long-distance rides. I’ve tried others, but this is the one that’s earned my trust. Check it out here on Amazon . MIPS technology for added brain protectio...

Understanding How a Bicycle Works A bicycle may look simple, but it’s a marvel of mechanical design. It’s a two-wheeled vehicle powered entirely by human effort — specifically, your legs. Here’s how it works: When you pedal, the motion turns the crankset. The crankset drives the chain, which in turn spins the rear wheel. Meanwhile, the front wheel, connected to the frame and steered by handlebars, keeps you on course. Let’s break down the main components: Key Parts of a Bicycle Frame : The core structure that connects all other parts and supports the rider. Wheels : Made up of rims, spokes, and hubs — these keep you rolling. Tires : Provide traction, cushion impacts, and determine how smooth or rough your ride feels. Crankset : Where the pedaling happens. Attached to crankarms and pedals, it initiates the chain's movement. Chain : Transfers power from your legs to the rear wheel. Rear Wheel : Drives the bike forward using the force from the chain. Brakes : Usually mounted on...

Embarking on a cycling journey as a beginner can feel both exciting and a little intimidating. Whether you're looking to commute, explore nature, or get fit, starting off with the right knowledge can make all the difference. This guide covers the most important tips for new cyclists—so you can hit the road with confidence and ease. 1. Choose the Right Bike for Your Goals Not all bikes are created equal. Start by understanding the different types of bikes available—like road bikes, mountain bikes, hybrids, and city bikes. Think about where you’ll ride most often. Will you be cruising around the neighborhood, hitting local trails, or commuting to work? Visit a local bike shop to get sized correctly and ask about frame materials and features. A comfortable fit is more important than flashy features. 2. Put Safety First Every Time Safety is essential for every rider, especially when you're just starting out. Always wear a properly fitted helmet. Equip your bike with front and r...

🚴‍♂️ 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...

Last Updated: August 3, 2025 Quick Tip: If the thought of zooming downhill makes your palms sweat, you're not alone. With the right setup and a few smart habits, you can ride fast down hills without losing your nerve—or your lunch. Why Fast Downhills Scare the Spandex Off Me As an experienced cyclist, I live for the grind of uphill climbs. But let me be honest: steep downhills terrify me. Once I hit around 40 mph, my brain goes full panic mode. My hands clamp the brakes like they’re life preservers, and my internal monologue sounds like a cartoon character yelling, “ YIKES! ” all the way down. I know plenty of cyclists who fly down hills like it’s nothing. Total respect to them—but I’m not built that way. Still, I’ve learned to manage my fear with some solid downhill biking techniques that keep me safe, in control, and maybe just a little less petrified. 🚴 Tip #1: Make Sure Your Bike Is Descent-Ready Check your brakes (both front and rear) Inspect you...

🚴 Why Safety Matters More Than Ever Whether you're cruising through city streets or rolling down quiet country roads, staying safe on your bike is more than just a checklist — it's the difference between a great ride and a dangerous one. After five decades in the saddle, I’ve seen how a little preparation goes a long way. These are the safety tips I live by — and I’ve got the scars (and miles) to prove why they matter. 🛡️ 1. Gear Up Before You Go Helmet First. Always. A properly fitted, CPSC-certified helmet isn't optional — it's essential. It’s saved my head more than once. Lights = Life. Front white light, rear red light, and reflectors on your frame and wheels. Ride like you're invisible — then make sure you're not. Staying visible is one of the most important things you can do on a ride — day or night. If you want a deeper look at visibility strategies, check out 👉 Visibility for Cyclists: See and Be Seen . Lights and helmets are just the beginnin...

Cycling is one of the best ways to stay active, boost your mood, and improve your overall health. But like any form of exercise, it comes with questions — and one that’s been making the rounds lately is this: Can cycling harm your heart? In this post, we’ll explore both the potential risks and proven benefits of cycling for heart health, and how to ride smart if you're concerned about your ticker. 🚨 The Potential Risks of Cycling for Your Heart While cycling is generally safe for most people, there are two scenarios where it could strain your heart: 1. Overtraining or Excessive Exercise Pushing your body too hard without proper rest can stress the heart muscle. Over time, this might lead to inflammation or even arrhythmias (irregular heart rhythms), especially in endurance athletes. 2. Exercising in Extreme Heat Riding in hot conditions can cause your core body temperature to rise. When your body struggles to cool down, your heart works harder — increasing the risk of d...

Riding a bicycle is more than just a great way to stay healthy and active—it's also eco-friendly, fun, and liberating. Whether you're a beginner or someone getting back into the saddle, it's normal to have questions. Below are 11 of the most frequently asked questions about biking—and their answers—to help you ride safely and confidently. 1. Do I Need a License to Ride a Bicycle? In most countries, no license is required to ride a regular, non-motorized bicycle. However, cyclists must follow local rules—such as wearing a helmet, using lights at night, and riding in bike lanes when available. For e-bikes , rules vary. Some areas may require registration, permits, or restrict e-bike use by speed or class. If you're using a bike for commercial purposes (like deliveries), you may also need additional permits. 2. Which Side of the Road Should I Ride On? In the U.S. and most countries, cyclists should ride on the right-hand side , with traffic. In places like the U.K. ...

Cycling is far more than just a way to get from point A to point B — it’s a lifestyle, a health booster, and a way to do your part for the planet. Whether you're commuting to work, exploring your local trails, or pedaling for fitness, the humble bicycle is one of the best companions you could have. Let’s explore why. Health Benefits Cycling is a fantastic form of low-impact exercise that’s gentle on your joints and suitable for nearly all ages. It improves cardiovascular health, strengthens muscles, aids in weight loss, and helps manage chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension. Studies have shown that cycling can cut your risk of heart disease and cancer by nearly half. The CDC recommends 150 minutes of moderate activity per week — cycling fits that bill perfectly. Environmental Benefits Unlike cars, bicycles don’t emit pollutants or rely on fossil fuels. By swapping your car ride for a bike trip, even just once or twice a week, you help reduce air pollution and traff...

Cycling is a fantastic way to stay active, reduce your carbon footprint, and enjoy the great outdoors. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or just getting started, having the right bike accessories can transform your ride into something safer, more comfortable, and more enjoyable. While most of these items can be found at local bike shops, which I recommend for their expertise, you’ll often find better prices online. Either way, here are my top recommendations: 1. Helmet Your helmet is your most important accessory. It protects your head in a fall and should fit perfectly. I always suggest buying this locally so you can get help with sizing and fit. 2. Bike Lights Front and rear lights are essential when riding in low-light conditions. I prefer lights that blink for added visibility—especially during sunset or dawn. A rechargeable set with multiple modes is ideal. 3. Bike Lock Theft is real. A lock won’t stop every thief, but it deters most. I use a chain lock on long tours becaus...