The Old Guy Bicycle Blog

  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...

As someone who has been cycling for over 50 years, I have gained firsthand experience of the numerous physical and mental benefits that it can offer. Cycling improves cardiovascular health and reducing stress and anxiety. Cycling is an excellent form of exercise that can help older adults stay active and healthy. However, I also understand that cycling can be a challenging activity, particularly as we age. It may require some extra support and guidance to continue cycling and pursue our goals. That's why I'm here to offer my expertise and support to those who may be facing challenges in cycling. As an experienced cyclist, I know the importance of setting realistic goals and finding a supportive community that can help you stay motivated and inspired. Additionally, addressing physical limitations, such as joint pain and reduced flexibility, is crucial for safe and comfortable cycling. I have faced such challenges myself and have found that physical therapy and other strateg...

If you're planning a multi-day tour, you know how crucial it is to have a reliable bike. Don't risk getting stranded on the road! I am a seasoned cyclist who has ridden thousands of miles. I can attest to the importance of investing in a quality bicycle. Personally, I ride a Specialized Diverge and it has been a fantastic bike for me. In fact, I rode it for 962 miles across Texas in 2020 without any issues. And the best part? I didn't even have to pay for it! Here's how it happened: during a training ride on my Specialized AWOL in January 2020, the chainstay suddenly cracked. Thankfully, Specialized offers a lifetime warranty on their frames, so I took my bike to my local dealer. They were able to replace it with a Diverge in just a few days. While I still prefer the ride of my steel-framed AWOL, the Diverge has been an excellent training bike. It has also been a great option for touring. Although I'll likely purchase a new steel-framed bike for my nex...

  As an avid cyclist, I prefer riding alone for long distances. The freedom to ride at my own pace and take breaks whenever I please is exhilarating. This sense of control and independence is what makes cycling a fulfilling experience for me. One of my memorable rides was in New Mexico, where I rode 45 miles away from the nearest town. It was just me and my bike, and I relished in the solitude of the journey. While I have participated in group rides before, I find that some groups can be competitive and testosterone-driven. There is always that one person who tries to outdo others, which can be a turn-off for me. As for challenges, I enjoy pushing myself to complete rides spanning hundreds of miles over a few days. However, I am not a competitive cyclist and do not partake in races. While I respect the dedication and hard work of racing cyclists, it is simply not my cup of tea.I have been on a few long tours over the years and have encountered a few groups. Many of the cyclists wer...

Long distance cycling can be a strange hobby, according to some. It's common for people to ask me why I ride 80 to 100 miles a day, day after day, often solo with just my bike and possibly a trailer. To understand why, I have to go back to my childhood in the 1960s. Back then, parents were less worried about their kids leaving the house, and my friends and I preferred to explore on our bikes rather than just hanging out at a neighbor's house. I'll never forget the feeling of adventure, discovering new places that we wouldn't have been able to see without our bikes. Now, over 55 years later, that sense of adventure still thrills me. I love exploring new places on my bike, and I can ride hundreds of miles to do so. It's a love that has stayed with me all these years. If you're a fellow rider, I'd love to hear why you ride. And if you're not a rider but want to be, feel free to join in the conversation as well. I'll be sharing tales of the road, giving ...