The Old Guy Bicycle Blog

Cycling is a fantastic activity at any age, and senior cyclists are becoming a powerful and passionate force on the road. The open air, steady motion, and sense of accomplishment all contribute to a healthier, happier life. But let’s face it—our bodies change with time. That doesn’t mean giving up long-distance cycling—it just means adjusting how we ride. Listen to Your Body It sounds simple, but it’s the most important tip for older cyclists. Recovery takes longer as we age, so pushing like you did in your twenties may not work anymore—and that’s okay. Pay attention to soreness, fatigue, or lingering pain. Rest days aren’t weakness; they’re wisdom in action. The key is consistency over intensity. Prioritize Endurance Over Power Muscle mass naturally declines with age, making high-intensity efforts less effective—and sometimes less enjoyable. Shift your focus to endurance. Long, steady rides at a comfortable pace improve cardiovascular health and stamina without excessive strain. You’l...

Ah, the age-old cyclist's dilemma: to sweat or to shiver? Both the blazing summer sun and the crisp bite of winter air bring their own challenges—and joys. But for me? There’s no contest. Give me the heat. I’ll gladly take sweat and sunshine over frozen fingers and layers any day of the week. That said, every cyclist has their own rhythm, so let’s take a fair look at both sides of the spectrum before you decide where your pedaling loyalties lie. ☀️ Cycling in the Heat (My Favorite!) Pros: Sunshine and Scenery: There’s something about riding under a big blue sky that lifts my spirit. The world is more alive, colors are more vivid, and the road just feels more inviting. Freedom of Movement: I love shedding the heavy gear and riding in shorts and a jersey. Less bulk means more comfort and a better feel for the road. Hydration Breaks Become Rituals: That cold bottle of water on a hot day? Pure gold. I’ve come to love those little stops—sometimes just to stand in the ...

  As an avid cyclist, I’ve discovered that one of the greatest freedoms on two wheels is the ability to choose your own path — literally and figuratively. For me, that often means riding solo. There’s something deeply satisfying about setting your own pace, stopping when you want, and soaking in the scenery without distraction. One of my most memorable solo rides was in New Mexico, 45 miles from the nearest town. Just me, my bike, and the road — total solitude, total peace. That’s not to say I haven’t enjoyed group rides. Over the years, I’ve joined a few organized tours and met some fantastic people. Swapping stories, laughing through tough climbs, and offering encouragement during hard miles — the social side of cycling can be just as rewarding. But I’ve also experienced the downside: overly competitive groups where someone always tries to prove something. That kind of energy isn’t for me. The beauty of cycling is this: you don’t have to choose one forever. You can be a lone w...