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Showing posts with the label Senior cyclists

A Wake-Up Call on Two Wheels: Why I Now Take Sun Protection Seriously

For most of my cycling life, sunscreen was an afterthought — if I thought about it at all. I’ve logged thousands of miles under the Texas sun, my arms and neck darkened by years of exposure. I wore my tan lines like a badge of honor, a mark of a cyclist who’s spent real time in the saddle. But I’ll tell you the truth: I never truly worried about it… until I turned 69. I went in for a free skin check offered by a local hospital — no symptoms, just something that seemed like a smart thing to do. The dermatologist took one look and said, “You need to get this checked out as soon as possible. It’s very likely skin cancer.” Let me tell you — that stopped me cold. Suddenly, all those years of skipping sunscreen didn’t feel tough. They felt reckless. I’d trained hard for decades, watched my diet, kept my heart strong — and yet I’d ignored the largest organ of my body: my skin. Thankfully, I got treatment and caught it early. But it was the wake-up call I didn’t know I needed. Now, I Don't...

The Best Touring Bikes for Your Next Adventure (And a Nod to My Favorite Ever)

My Specialized AWOL and Bob Trailer at a rest stop on the way to Albuquerque, New Mexico for Lubbock, Texas Touring bikes aren’t just machines—they're companions for thousands of miles, rolling journals of adventure, resilience, and freedom. Over the years, I’ve ridden many bikes, but none have left a mark on me quite like the Specialized AWOL . Though it's no longer in production, I still consider it the best touring bike I’ve ever owned. It handled fully loaded tours with a BOB trailer like a dream and gave me unmatched comfort on the road. But while the AWOL has been retired from the market, there are still plenty of exceptional touring bikes out there that carry the torch. If you're planning a big tour—or just daydreaming—these are some of the best you can find today. 🚴‍♂️ 1. Surly Long Haul Trucker / Disc Trucker No list of touring bikes is complete without Surly. The Long Haul Trucker (and its disc-brake sibling, the Disc Trucker ) is a legend among tourers. Frame...

Thick vs. Thin Cycling Shorts Liners: Which Is Best for Your Ride?

If you ride often, you know how important the right gear can be — and cycling shorts are near the top of that list. Whether you’re riding for fitness, fun, or racing, your shorts can make or break your comfort on the bike. One debate that keeps rolling around in cycling circles: are thicker or thinner liners better? Let’s break down the pros and cons of each to help you choose what works best for your ride. Why Some Riders Prefer Thicker Liners ✅ Extra Cushioning for Long Rides Thicker cycling shorts liners provide more padding where it counts. If you spend hours in the saddle — especially on rough terrain or touring rides — that extra support can reduce soreness and keep you going. ✅ Shock Absorption on Rough Roads Mountain bikers and gravel riders benefit from thicker liners because they help absorb bumps and vibrations. That means less strain on your lower back and fewer aches after the ride. ✅ Ideal for Endurance and Touring If you ride multiple days in a row or take on c...

The Mental Health Magic of Cycling: Ride Your Way to Well‑Being

Why Cycling Is Great for Mental Health Cycling isn’t just exercise—it’s therapy on wheels. Whether you're riding for fun, health, or travel, hopping on your bike can transform your mental state in powerful ways. 1. Mood Booster & Stress Relief When you ride, your body releases endorphins—natural mood lifters that lower stress and lift your spirits. It’s simple: a few miles on the bike, and the blues melt away. 2. Brighten Your Mind Outdoors Cycling gets you into the fresh air and sunshine, which studies show can reduce stress, improve mood, and boost brain function theoldguybicycleblog.com +1 biketheukforms.org +1 . Spending time outside really does help our mental well-being. 3. Better Cognitive Health in Later Years Recent research shows that regular cycling (even mild) can slow cognitive decline, enhance executive function, and support better mental health as we age—especially in older adults . 4. Connection & Community Joining a club or riding with pals adds ...

The Real Danger for Long-Distance Cyclists: Distracted Drivers

  The Biggest Threat to Long Distance Cyclists: The Rise of the Distracted Driver The Growing Risk on the Open Road When we think of cycling dangers, we often picture potholes, sudden storms, or mechanical failure. But for today’s long-distance cyclists, the most serious threat comes from something far more modern: distracted drivers. In the era of smartphones and endless connectivity, drivers are more mentally absent than ever before. That inattention has deadly consequences for cyclists—especially those riding long stretches of road. What Makes Distracted Driving So Dangerous? 📱 Texting While Driving Texting takes a driver’s eyes off the road for an average of five seconds—long enough to travel the length of a football field without looking. For a cyclist in the lane ahead, that’s potentially fatal. 📲 Scrolling Social Media Even a quick glance at Instagram or TikTok can steal the driver’s focus. A car veering slightly over the white line can mean disaster for a cyclist ...

When Cycling Hurts Your Relationships: Finding Balance on and off the Bike

Cycling can be an incredible way to stay fit, enjoy the outdoors, and push yourself toward new goals. For many of us, it’s more than a hobby—it’s a passion that brings joy, purpose, and even healing. But like any passion, cycling can sometimes become all-consuming. And when that happens, it can quietly begin to hurt the people closest to us. This is something I’ve struggled with personally. As someone who trains and tours long distances, I know how easy it is to let the bike take over. But if we’re not careful, the very thing that gives us life can become a wedge between us and the people we love. ⏳ Cycling Takes Time—and Sometimes Too Much Training rides, recovery days, route planning—it all adds up. When you're chasing a personal goal, it's tempting to justify every extra mile. But over time, that can mean less time for your spouse, kids, friends, or even simple conversations at home. If your loved ones feel they’re always taking second place to the bike, tension and rese...

Can Cycling Cause Heart Problems? Here's What the Science Actually Says

Can Cycling Cause Heart Problems? Cycling is often praised for its heart-health benefits — and for good reason. It improves cardiovascular fitness, lowers blood pressure, and helps with weight control. But if you're a regular rider (especially a senior or endurance cyclist), you may have heard the question: Can too much cycling actually hurt your heart? Let’s dig into what science, doctors, and decades of cycling experience say about the real relationship between cycling and heart health. ❤️ The Good News: Cycling Is Great for Most Hearts Study after study shows that moderate cycling reduces the risk of heart disease , stroke, and high blood pressure. Regular riders tend to have: Lower resting heart rates Improved cholesterol profiles Better weight control Reduced stress levels The American Heart Association recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise weekly — and cycling is one of the top choices. So, for most people, riding your bike is one of the ...

Should You Carry a Gun on a Long-Distance Bicycle Tour?

One of the top questions I get from people who know I ride cross country is if I carry a gun. Embarking on a long-distance bicycle tour is an exhilarating experience—offering the freedom to explore new landscapes, cultures, and meet people from all walks of life. While personal safety is always a valid concern, the idea of carrying a gun on such a journey comes with serious considerations. Here’s why that decision deserves a closer look. 1. Safety Hazards Accidental Discharge: Cycling is a dynamic activity that includes bumps, jolts, and the occasional fall. Carrying a loaded firearm while riding introduces the very real risk of an accidental discharge, which could result in severe injury or even death. It’s not just your safety at stake, but the safety of others nearby. Increased Risk During Falls: Falls happen—even to experienced cyclists. Carrying a firearm can worsen injuries if you land on it or if it shifts during a crash. It’s one more risk in an already physically demandi...

Why Wearing a Bike Helmet Still Matters (Personal Story)

🧠 Updated Guide Available: For the full 2025 helmet guide (including comfort, fit, and new safety standards), click here . Cycling is a great way to get exercise, enjoy the outdoors, and save money on gas. However, it's important to remember that cycling can also be dangerous, especially if you're not wearing a helmet or paying attention to where you're going. Why is it Important to Wear a Helmet When Cycling? A helmet is the best way to protect your head in the event of a crash. Studies have shown that helmets can reduce the risk of serious head injury by up to 85%. How to Choose the Right Helmet When choosing a helmet, it's important to make sure that it fits snugly and covers your forehead, the back of your head, and your temples. The helmet should also be comfortable to wear and have a good ventilation system. How to Wear a Helmet Correctly To wear a helmet correctly, make sure that the straps are snug and that the helmet sits level on your head. The visor should ...

What to Wear for Bicycle Touring: Comfortable, Safe, and Stylish Gear

Bicycle touring is one of the most rewarding ways to see the world — combining adventure, fitness, and the simple joy of the open road. But whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a cross-country journey, what you wear can make or break your ride . The right gear keeps you comfortable, dry, and safe no matter the conditions. Here’s how to build the perfect bike touring wardrobe that balances function, comfort, and smart packing . 1. 👕 Prioritize All-Day Comfort When you’re riding for hours — sometimes days — in a row, comfort becomes non-negotiable . Choose clothes that: Fit well and reduce chafing Are made from moisture-wicking materials like merino wool or synthetic blends Help regulate body temperature and minimize odor Avoid cotton — it traps sweat and dries slowly, which can lead to discomfort or even saddle sores. 2. 🎒 Pack Versatile Clothing for Changing Conditions Space is limited, so every item you bring should earn its place. Look for: Conver...