The Old Guy Bicycle Blog

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 full-face

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 space fo

As a fellow cycling enthusiast, I completely understand the fear that can arise when faced with the possibility of a flat tire. When I first started riding my bike, I was always apprehensive about venturing too far away from home. I was afraid that if I got a flat tire, I wouldn't be able to fix it and would be stranded. But one day, I decided to face my fear and learn how to change a flat tire, and it changed my life. Now, I regularly travel hundreds of miles from home on my bicycle, all by myself, without any fear or hesitation. The truth is, learning how to change a flat tire is one of the most important skills you can have as a cyclist. It's not a matter of if you'll get a flat tire, but when. So, being prepared and knowing how to handle the situation can save you a lot of time, frustration, and even money. I am going to put a couple of options for tire changing kits you can purchase at Amazon down below. Some give you tools that include a mini-pump but I prefer using C

When it comes to long-distance touring, having the right gear can make all the difference. One piece of equipment that many cyclists swear by is the Sensational BOB trailer. These trailers attach to the back of your bike and allow you to carry a significant amount of gear. This makes them ideal for long-distance rides. I love my BOB trailer. I can attest to its dependability and usefulness on thousands of miles of tours. The picture with this post is my BOB trailer. I have used it for rides across New Mexico twice and across Texas West to East and North to South. I have also rode it from Lubbock, Texas to Pensacola, Florida, and many other shorter rides. It has been a dependable workhorse that has never given me an ounce of problems. Let's check out some of the things that make it a great choice. Simplicity One of the great things about the BOB trailer is its simplicity. The trailer attaches to the rear wheel of your bike and can be loaded up with gear. It doesn't matter what

Cycling is a great way for seniors to stay active and healthy, but it's important to have the right accessories to stay safe and comfortable on your ride.  Here are 10 must-have cycling accessories for seniors: Bike helmet: A bike helmet is the most important accessory for any cyclist, regardless of age. It can help protect your head in the event of a fall or collision. Look for a helmet that fits well and has a comfortable chin strap. You can also find helmets with built-in visors or sun shades to protect your eyes from the sun. I could give you a link to a helmet but I feel the best place to buy a quality helmet is a local bike shop. Cycling gloves: Cycling gloves are another important accessory for seniors. They can help prevent blisters and calluses on your hands and provide extra cushioning for long rides. Look for gloves with gel padding or foam inserts for added comfort.  The MOREOK Cycling Gloves Below are a great highly rated choice. Comfortable saddle: A comfortable sad

Cycling is a great way to get exercise, explore your surroundings, and have fun. It's also a relatively low-impact activity, making it a good option for people of all fitness levels. If you're a beginner who's interested in starting cycling, here are the essential pieces of equipment you'll need: A bicycle: The type of bicycle you need will depend on your riding style and the terrain you'll be riding on. If you're not sure what type of bike is right for you, talk to a bike shop salesperson. A helmet: A helmet is the most important piece of safety gear for cyclists. It can help protect your head in the event of a fall or collision. Cycling clothes: Cycling clothes are designed to be comfortable and cool, and they can help reduce drag, which can improve your speed. Some essential pieces of cycling clothing include cycling shorts, a cycling jersey, and arm and leg warmers. Cycling shoes: Cycling shoes are designed to clip into your pedals, which can help you gene