The Old Guy Bicycle Blog

A couple of days ago I wrote an article about the greatest cyclists in American cycling history. It mainly focused on the media darlings that we have all seen on the Tour de France and other big time races. I am particularly impressed with ultra-long-distance cyclists too and wanted to give them some recognition too.   Cycling is a sport that has captured the hearts and minds of millions of people around the world. Whether it's the rush of wind in your face as you ride through beautiful landscapes, the feeling of pushing yourself to your limits, or the satisfaction of achieving a long-sought-after goal, there is something truly special about cycling that keeps people coming back for more. One of the most challenging and rewarding aspects of cycling is long distance and ultra-distance riding. These events push cyclists to their limits, challenging their physical and mental stamina as they ride hundreds or even thousands of miles in a single race. And in the United States, there are

  Endurance Cycling for Seniors: Navigating the Challenges of a 24-Hour Bicycle Ride I have rode in the 24 Hour in the Canyon event a few times in the past decade. Riding a bicycle for 24 hours is grueling. The ride starts on a Saturday at noon and ends at noon on Sunday. I always did best the first 8 or 9 hours, which is completely expected. The next many hours are when we would plunge into darkness in the canyon and the temperature would fall from the upper 90's down into the 50's. Believe me, that takes it toll on you quickly.  I loved riding as the sun comes up. You know there are just a few hours left and you start to feel the warmth on your face. It kind of gives you a bit of an adrenaline rush. That last few hours were just painful. You are either close to 200 miles into the 24 hour ride or more. My best was 234 miles but I can't seem to get close to that many miles now. A 24-hour bicycle ride is a challenging feat for any cyclist, but it can be particularly demandin

There's nothing quite like the thrill of achieving a major goal, and for many people, traveling by bike is an ideal way to experience that rush. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or just starting out, embarking on a long-distance tour can be an incredible adventure filled with breathtaking scenery, challenging terrain, and moments of pure joy. For me, one of the most exciting parts of touring by bike has been crossing major milestones along the way. I remember the first time I crossed the mighty Mississippi River on my bike in 2016, feeling a surge of exhilaration as I pedaled over the massive steel bridge that spans its width. It was a moment I'll never forget, and one that reminded me of just how powerful and awe-inspiring nature can be. Those pictures are of me at that moment. But crossing the Mississippi was just the beginning of my journey. As I pedaled further and further from home, I crossed numerous state borders, each one a new opportunity to explore unfamiliar ter

In 2016, I was riding from Lubbock, Texas to Pensacola, Florida. It was a long and challenging ride, but I was having a great time. One day, I was about 10 miles into an 80-mile day when I broke a spoke. I was in a very secluded area, and I didn't see another cyclist or car for hours. But I was prepared. I had the gear I needed and the knowledge to fix my spoke. Without it, my ride would have ended on day 2. This experience taught me two important things that are essential for any long distance cyclist: basic bicycle repair knowledge and a positive attitude. Basic Bicycle Repair Knowledge Even if you are a seasoned cyclist, you are bound to encounter some mechanical problems on a long distance tour. You may be far away from home and bike shops, so it is important to be able to fix basic problems yourself. Here are a few things you should know how to do: Change a tire Fix a broken chain Adjust your brakes and gears True your wheels Replace a cable Replace a broken spoke You c

  Congratulations on taking on the challenge of training for a century as a beginner senior cyclist! With the right training plan, you can build up your endurance and skills to achieve this impressive goal. Here's a sample six-month training plan to help you prepare. It's simple to follow and offers you the flexibility to ride it the way you feel best. From Beginner to Century: A Training Plan for Senior Cyclists Month 1: Start with two to three rides per week, gradually building up to a total of 50-75 miles per week. Focus on building your base fitness with longer, steady-paced rides of 10-20 miles. Incorporate some hill training to build strength and improve your climbing skills. Add some cross-training activities, such as walking or swimming, to build overall fitness and reduce the risk of injury. Month 2: Increase your weekly mileage to 75-100 miles per week. Begin to incorporate one longer ride per week, gradually building up to a distance of 30-40 miles. Add some interval

Cycle touring is a popular activity among cyclists of all ages, but it can be especially rewarding for seniors who have the time and resources to embark on longer journeys. However, cycle touring can also be daunting for seniors who may be unfamiliar with planning and preparing for extended bike trips. In this article, we'll offer tips and tricks for planning and enjoying a cycle touring adventure. Choose Your Destination The first step in planning a cycle touring adventure is to choose your destination. Consider factors such as climate, terrain, and cultural attractions when selecting a location. It's also important to choose a route that matches your level of fitness and experience. If you're new to cycle touring, consider starting with shorter, less challenging trips before embarking on longer journeys. Prepare Your Bike Before setting out on your cycle touring adventure, it's important to prepare your bike for the journey. Make sure your bike is in good condition an

If you're a senior cyclist looking for an exciting way to explore the United States, a cross-country cycling tour might be just the adventure you're looking for. With two primary routes to choose from - the Northern Tier and Southern Tier - you have a lot to consider before you hit the road. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at the differences between these two popular routes, so you can make an informed decision about which one is best for your goals and preferences. Northern Tier Route The Northern Tier Route is a 4,265-mile journey that takes cyclists from Anacortes, Washington, to Bar Harbor, Maine, through some of the most scenic and remote areas of the northern United States. While this route offers breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains, the Great Lakes region, and the Atlantic Coast, it is not for the faint of heart. The Northern Tier is known for its challenging terrain, with long stretches of steep mountain climbs and descents. Cyclists will also enco

Bicycling has become an increasingly popular mode of transportation and recreation in the United States. As more people turn to cycling for exercise, commuting, and leisure activities, the need for safe and accessible bike trails has become increasingly important. One proposal that has gained attention in recent years is the creation of a bicycle trail that runs from the east coast to the west coast of the United States, exclusively for bicycles and pedestrians. This proposal raises the question: should the United States government pass a bill funding the creation of a safe, no-automobiles-allowed bicycle trail that runs from coast to coast? There are a number of reasons why such a trail would be beneficial to the United States. First and foremost, it would provide a safe and healthy mode of transportation for commuters and travelers. With the rising costs of gasoline and the increasing importance of reducing carbon emissions, cycling offers an affordable and eco-friendly alternative t

The allure of cycling across the United States is a dream shared by countless adventurers seeking to traverse the vast landscapes, experience the nation's diversity, and challenge themselves on an epic journey. However, with such a grand adventure comes the responsibility of assessing safety concerns and making necessary preparations. In this comprehensive guide, I will explore the immense rewards of biking across the United States while shedding light on potential risks and how to mitigate them for a secure and unforgettable experience. I am going to cover a lot of information and succinctly as possible to answer the question, Is it safe to ride a bicycle across the United States? Embracing the Adventure and Evaluating the Risks Cycling across the United States offers a unique opportunity to witness the country's natural beauty, encounter diverse cultures, and foster personal growth. Yet, it is crucial to recognize the inherent risks to ensure a safe journey: a. Traffic Challe

Embarking on a long bike ride can be both exhilarating and challenging. The freedom of the open road, the wind in your face, and the sense of accomplishment as you conquer mile after mile—it's a feeling like no other. But what happens when unexpected circumstances leave you dehydrated and desperate for a sip of water? That's exactly what I experienced during a recent adventure, when a chance encounter with a stranger turned into an unforgettable act of kindness. The Ride Begins: I was on day 11 of a 12 day tour from the Oklahoma-Texas border to South Padre Island . This was going to be my most difficult day. It was a little more than 80 miles, which isn't bad, and it was a flat ride, which is very good. What made it bad? There was a 60 mike stretch with absolutely no water resources available. Making matters worse was the weather forecast. It was going to climb up over 110 degrees in the mid-afternoon. I pedaled away before sunrise trying to ride as much as I could in the c

As a seasoned cyclist, I can attest to the fact that touring on a bicycle has been a truly transformative experience for me. However, it was not always that way. When I first started touring a few decades ago, I was driven by my competitive juices. I thought I had to push as hard and fast as possible to get to the next town or checkpoint. But over time, I learned to chill out, slow down, and enjoy the journey. Since then, I have learned of the transformative power of touring. When I first started touring, I approached it like a race. I would set out early in the morning, with the goal of reaching my destination as quickly as possible. It became important for me to ride hard and fast, pushing myself to my limits. I would often arrive at my destination exhausted, with little energy or enthusiasm for the journey ahead. But as I continued touring, I began to realize that there was so much more to the experience than just getting from point A to point B. I started to notice the sma

Riding a multi-day bicycle tour can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it can also raise a lot of questions for those who are doing it for the first time. Whether you're riding solo or with a group, here are some answers to commonly asked questions about multi-day tours on a bicycle: How do I pack for a multi-day bicycle tour? Packing for a multi-day tour requires a bit of planning and strategy. You'll want to pack lightweight, durable, and versatile clothing that can be layered for changing weather conditions. Bring along essential tools, bike repair supplies, and extra tubes in case of flat tires. Don't forget to pack toiletries, sunscreen, and insect repellent. I make a list days before the tour and I have a place to lay everything out and check it off the list. I am not going to give you my list because everyone has different needs but I will tell you this, the weight you are going to be carrying on your bike will be more than you probably are used to.

  When it comes to cycling, I prefer to ride alone. Don't get me wrong, I love the social aspect of group rides and the camaraderie that comes with it. However, there's something about the freedom of hitting the road at my own pace and stopping whenever I feel like it that's truly liberating. I'm in complete control of the ride, and that's just the way I like it. Riding solo allows me to fully immerse myself in the experience of cycling. I can focus on the sound of the tires on the pavement, the wind in my face, and the beautiful scenery around me. I can go at my own pace without feeling the pressure to keep up with the group or slow down for others. One of my fondest memories is from a few summers ago in New Mexico. I found myself 45 miles away from the nearest town with nothing but my trusty bike for company. It was just me and the open road, and I loved every moment of it. The feeling of complete solitude was refreshing and invigorating. I could stop whenever I w

As someone who was once a marathon runner but had to switch to cycling due to a knee injury which resulted in a rebuilt knee, I can say that cycling has been one of the best decisions I've made for my fitness and overall well-being. Not only is it a great low-impact exercise that's gentle on my joints, but it has also opened up a whole new world of exploration and adventure through long-distance touring. Here are some of the benefits of touring cycling: Exploring More of the World: One of the main advantages of touring cycling is the ability to see so much more of the world than you can when running. When you're on a bike, you can cover much greater distances in a day than you can on foot, allowing you to explore more of your surroundings and experience different landscapes and cultures. Cover More Ground: With a bike, you can travel farther and cover more ground than walking or running, allowing you to see more of the world in a shorter amount of time. This means that you

I am a cyclist who has toured extensively throughout the United States. I have often debated the question of whether or not to carry a firearm while touring. There are many factors to consider, including the need for personal protection, the risk of violence, the legal consequences, and the availability of alternative methods of self-defense. Personal Protection One of the main reasons why people choose to carry a firearm while touring is for personal protection. Many cyclists feel vulnerable and exposed to potential threats when they are riding in remote areas or unfamiliar territories. A firearm can provide a sense of security and deterrence against attackers, both human and animal. Deterrent A firearm can also be a deterrent against crime. Potential attackers may be less likely to target a cyclist who is visibly armed. This is especially true in areas where crime rates are high. Sense of Security Even if you are not likely to ever use a firearm in self-defense, it can still provide

Cycling is a fantastic way to stay fit, explore new places, and challenge yourself both physically and mentally. For many cyclists, the thrill of conquering a steep climb is one of the most rewarding experiences on the bike. However, if you live and train in a relatively flat area, preparing for a tour with steep climbs can be a daunting challenge. As a cyclist who lives in a flat area, you may be used to spinning at a high cadence and cruising along at a comfortable pace. But when faced with steep hills on a tour, your legs will have to work much harder to get you to the top. So how can you prepare for such a challenge? One of the best ways to train for a tour with steep climbs is to simulate those climbs as closely as possible. Even if you don't have any hills in your area, you can still train for climbs by using a stationary trainer with a steep incline or by finding a parking garage with multiple levels to ride up and down. There is a 10 level parking garage about 3 miles from

Introduction If you are a senior cyclist and have been thinking about taking on a long bicycle tour, this article is for you. In this guide, we'll be discussing why seniors should consider cycling long tours and how to prepare for them. We will also discuss some of the benefits of doing so as well as what to consider before embarking on such an adventure. Preparation Here are some things to consider when preparing for a long cycling tour: Bike maintenance : Make sure your bike is in good condition and ready for a long trip. This includes checking the brakes, tires, chain, and other components. It's a good idea to take your bike to a professional bike mechanic for a tune-up before the trip. Packing : Pack as lightly as possible, as you will be carrying everything on your bike. Consider packing clothes that can be easily layered for different weather conditions, and bring rain gear just in case. First aid : Bring a first aid kit that includes essentials such as bandages, antisept