The Old Guy Bicycle Blog

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...

Top Safety Tips for Cyclists: Ride Smart, Ride Safe Cycling is a fantastic way to stay healthy, explore your city, and reduce your carbon footprint. But like any activity, it's crucial to prioritize safety. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or just getting started, here are some top tips to keep you rolling smoothly: 1. Gear Up for Safety Helmet – This is non-negotiable. Choose a CPSC-certified helmet that fits snugly and comfortably. Lights and Reflectors – Be visible at all times, especially at dawn, dusk, and night. Equip your bike with a white front light, red rear light, and reflective material on the frame, wheels, and pedals. Brakes and Tires – Ensure your brakes are in good working order and your tires are properly inflated. Worn brakes and flat tires can lead to accidents. 2. Be Predictable and Follow the Rules Ride with Traffic – Obey traffic laws and signals. Ride in the same direction as traffic, not against it. Use Hand Signals – Clearly indicate your turns and ...

Clipping into your pedals and feeling the power transfer directly from your legs to the bike – it's a satisfying experience that can take your cycling to the next level. But before you shell out for a fancy pair of cycling shoes, you might be wondering: do I actually need them? The answer, as with most things in life, is: it depends. Let's delve into the factors you should consider to decide if cycling shoes are a worthwhile investment for you. Riding Frequency and Intensity: Casual Rider:  If you're a weekend warrior who enjoys leisurely bike rides around the park, regular sneakers might suffice. Your comfort level is key, and if flats work for you, stick with them! Opens in a new window www.freepik.com Casual cyclist riding around the park Enthusiast Cyclist:  Do you cycle several times a week, pushing yourself for longer distances and higher speeds? This is where cycling shoes start to shine. They'll provide better power transfer, imp...

Traveling with a bicycle on a plane can seem daunting, but with the right preparation and knowledge, it can be a relatively smooth process. Here are some tips on how to travel on a plane with a bicycle: Check with your airline: Every airline has different rules and fees when it comes to transporting bicycles. Check your airline's website or call their customer service to find out their specific requirements. Choose the right case: Invest in a good quality bike case that is sturdy and provides adequate protection for your bike during transport. There are hard cases and soft cases available, and some airlines may have specific requirements regarding the type of case allowed. Bicycle Magazine picked the B & W International Bike Box II as the best value for bicycle cases. It is a"Compact and tough plastic case and has four smooth rolling wheels." Pack your bike properly: Disassemble your bike and pack it securely in the bike case. Remove the pedals, wheels, and handleb...

Choosing the best bicycle helmet for your child is one of the most important things you can do to keep them safe while riding. A well-fitting helmet can help to protect your child's head in the event of a crash. Here is a detailed guide on how to choose the best bicycle helmet for your child: 1. Consider the type of helmet. There are many different types of bicycle helmets available, so it is important to choose one that is appropriate for your child's riding style and needs. Some of the most common types of bicycle helmets include: Road helmets:  Road helmets are designed for cyclists who ride on roads and paved surfaces. They typically have a lightweight and aerodynamic design. Mountain bike helmets : Mountain bike helmets are designed for cyclists who ride on off-road trails. They typically have a more robust design and more coverage around the back and sides of the head. BMX helmets:  BMX helmets are designed for cyclists who ride BMX bikes. They typically have a ful...

Cycling shorts are an essential piece of equipment for any serious cyclist. Not only do they provide a level of comfort that regular shorts can’t match, but they also help prevent chafing and skin irritation. However, it's not just a matter of putting on any old pair of cycling shorts and hitting the road. There is a proper way of wearing cycling shorts that will help you get the most out of them. In this blog post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the proper way of wearing cycling shorts. Choose the right size The first and most important step to wearing cycling shorts properly is to choose the right size. Cycling shorts should fit snugly without being too tight. If they're too loose, they'll bunch up and cause discomfort, while if they're too tight, they'll restrict movement and circulation. Make sure to refer to the manufacturer's sizing chart to determine the right size for you. Get the right style There are two main styles of cycling shorts: bi...

  As an avid cyclist who has been touring for many years, I can attest to the benefits of using tubeless tires. Since making the switch, I have noticed a significant decline in punctures, which has made my tours more enjoyable and hassle-free. While there is an initial setup process for tubeless tires, I have found that topping off the sealant is not a major issue, and it only requires a few extra minutes of maintenance time. One of the major advantages of tubeless tires is the absence of an inner tube, which allows for lower tire pressure, and better traction. This makes for a more comfortable ride, especially during long-distance touring where reducing fatigue is essential. I have also found that tubeless tires offer improved rolling resistance, which has enhanced my performance, enabling me to maintain speed for longer periods of time. Another benefit of using tubeless tires is the reduced need for carrying tubes , which has allowed me to use a smaller bike bag, freeing up spac...