The Old Guy Bicycle Blog

Updated May 2026 What Makes a Great Cycling Helmet? (And How I Chose Mine) When I started cycling more seriously, I thought all helmets were pretty much the same. As long as it fit and looked decent, that was enough—right? Turns out, there’s a lot more that goes into choosing a great cycling helmet than most people think. After thousands of miles on the road and a few close calls, I’ve learned to appreciate the small features that make a huge difference. This post isn’t about the most expensive gear—just what matters most when you’re looking for a helmet that protects, performs, and lasts. Read the list of important features and see my own helmet below but come back here to see a selection of great helmets . 1. Certified Safety Standards At a minimum, your helmet should be CPSC certified in the U.S. That means it meets basic impact protection standards. Some helmets go further with MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System), which helps reduce rotational forces in a crash....

Cycling Gear I Can’t Ride Without: Lessons From the Road After thousands of miles in the saddle, I’ve come to realize that some cycling gear becomes more than just equipment—it becomes part of the journey. This post isn’t about selling you the latest high-tech gadgets or pushing fancy brands. It’s about sharing the cycling gear that’s earned its keep on my rides over the years. 1. A Helmet That Fits Like a Glove I never used to think much about helmets—until a crash reminded me just how important the right fit and ventilation really are. My current helmet isn’t flashy, but it’s comfortable, cools well, and gives me peace of mind. 2. Padded Shorts (Yes, Even on Short Rides) If I had a dollar for every mile I’ve ridden in padded shorts, I could probably buy a new bike. The right pair of cycling shorts can make or break a ride, especially on multi-day tours or long training days. 3. Gloves That Protect (and Remind Me to Wave) My gloves serve two purposes: grip and greetings. Th...

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...

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...