The Old Guy Bicycle Blog

Cycling is a great way to get exercise, reduce traffic congestion, and lower your carbon footprint. However, cycling in urban areas can expose you to high levels of air pollution, which can have negative effects on your health. In this post, we'll explore the link between cycling and air pollution and provide tips for reducing your exposure to harmful pollutants. Air pollution is a major health concern in urban areas around the world. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), air pollution is responsible for an estimated 4.2 million deaths every year. In urban areas, the main sources of air pollution are transportation, industry, and energy production. Cycling can help reduce air pollution by reducing the number of cars on the road, but it can also expose you to high levels of pollutants, especially if you're cycling in heavy traffic. The main types of air pollutants that cyclists are exposed to are particulate matter (PM), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and ozone (O3). PM is ...

The Paul Bunyan State Trail is a 120-mile trail that runs through some of the most beautiful natural landscapes in Minnesota. The trail starts in Brainerd and winds its way north to Bemidji, passing through charming towns, forests, and lakes along the way. This trail is a popular destination for cyclists, hikers, and snowmobilers alike, and it's easy to see why. One of the most striking features of the Paul Bunyan State Trail is the sheer beauty of the scenery that surrounds it. The trail takes cyclists through dense forests of pine, spruce, and birch, past shimmering lakes and streams, and across gently rolling hills. The trail is dotted with rest areas, picnic spots, and interpretive signs that offer information about the history and ecology of the area. But it's not just the scenery that makes the Paul Bunyan State Trail so special. The trail is also well-maintained and user-friendly, with a wide, flat surface that's suitable for cyclists of all skill levels. There are s...

As someone who has ridden a bicycle for over 50 years, I've learned the importance of keeping your bike well-maintained. However, I'll be the first to admit that I'm not the most mechanically inclined person. That's why I rely on my local bike shop for most of my repairs. But there are some basic maintenance tasks that I've learned to do myself over the years, and I'm here to share them with you. Cleaning the bike: A clean bike not only looks better, but it also performs better. Use a bucket of warm, soapy water and a soft sponge or cloth to gently clean your bike. Pay special attention to the chain, cassette, and derailleur. Use a separate brush to clean the chain and cassette, and then wipe them down with a clean cloth. Once you've finished cleaning, make sure to dry your bike thoroughly to prevent rust Cleaning and lubing the chain: The chain is one of the most important components of your bike, so it's important to keep it clean and well-lubricated....

Cycling is not only a great way to stay active and explore your surroundings, but it can also be a powerful tool for improving your mental and emotional well-being. By practicing mindfulness while cycling, you can enhance your experience, reduce stress and anxiety, and boost your overall sense of well-being. If you had told me way back when I started cycling that I would be talking about mindfulness I would laugh at you but here I am all those years later doing it. Cycling does change as you age and I find practicing mindfulness pretty cool. This may sound hokey to some of you but I find it serves me well. Understand that I am no longer a competitive cyclist. I do not enter races trying to place high in the standings. If I enter a race nowadays it is just to enjoy the fact that I can ride, meet some cool people, and see if I can finish it. Most of my riding today involves getting ready for multi-day adventures. I don't go fast. It is about endurance but it is also about stopping an...

This is one of the coolest things I have seen in a long time. It is a guy who is touring with his cat. I stumbled upon a video on YouTube that featured this man named Dean Nicholson and his furry companion Nala, who he adopted while cycling through Bosnia. Their story is nothing short of inspiring and heartwarming. Dean Nicholson, a 31-year-old from Dunbar, Scotland, had always dreamt of travelling the world. In 2018, he quit his job as a welder and set off on his bicycle, with the intention of cycling through Europe and eventually reaching  Australia. From there the hope is to fly to Argentina then cycle north to Canada. But little did he know that his life would change forever in Bosnia. One day, while cycling up a steep hill in the Bosnian mountains, Dean heard a faint meowing sound. Curious, he got off his bike and found a tiny kitten by the side of the road. He decided to take her with him, and named her Nala. Since then, the duo has been inseparable, and they have travelled ...

  I love cycling. I'm one of those cyclists that claims cycling is in my DNA. If I go too long without cycling my mood goes south fast. I'm not sure you can classify it as depression but my wife says it causes me to become a grumpy old man. I have read about some seriously depressed people turning their lives around through cycling. I believe in it so here is a post about it. Depression is a serious mental health condition that affects millions of people around the world. While there are many treatments available, some people may find relief from depression through physical exercise, such as cycling. Here are some ways that cycling can help beat depression and improve overall mental health: Boosts endorphins: Exercise, including cycling, releases endorphins, which are chemicals in the brain that can improve mood and reduce feelings of stress and anxiety. Cycling can provide a natural boost of these "feel-good" chemicals, helping to reduce symptoms of depression. Impr...

As a cyclist, I have experienced moments where the sensation of flying overtakes me. The wind in my hair, the rhythm of my legs, and the sound of my wheels on the road all come together to create a feeling of soaring through the air. Even though I am physically grounded, cycling can make me feel like I have wings. So what is it about riding that gives us this feeling? One reason cycling can make you feel like you're flying is the joy of movement. Cycling is a form of self-powered transportation that allows you to move through the world at your own pace. The simple act of propelling yourself forward can create a sense of lightness and freedom that feels like flight. Another reason is the connection to nature. When you're cycling, you're exposed to the elements with nothing between you and the world around you. This connection to nature can make you feel more alive and like you're a part of something bigger than yourself. The sound of the wind and the scent of the air can...

As an experienced cyclist, I love the challenge of conquering steep hills. But when it comes to riding back down, I can't help but cringe at the thought. The speed and fear of losing control can be overwhelming, and I find myself riding my brakes most of the way once I hit around 40 mph. I know some people are great at riding downhills, and I have a lot of respect for them, but it's just not something I'm comfortable with. However, I know that handling fast downhills is important for any cyclist, so I've learned some techniques to help me get through it. Firstly, I always make sure my bike is in good condition. I check my brakes, wheels, and tires before I start my descent to ensure that my bike can handle the speed and stress of the descent. If I'm unsure, I take my bike to a professional for a tune-up. Secondly, I always wear a helmet. It may seem obvious, but it's worth repeating. A good quality helmet can save your life if you lose control on the descent. I ...

I love cycling. It's hard to put into words how much joy it brings me. I started out as a runner in college, but I also rode a bicycle a few miles to and from my apartment to classes. Little did I know that I was slowly becoming a cyclist. I went to New Mexico State University, and about 5 miles from my apartment was a pretty lonely highway that rambled through some really cool small villages. The thing I loved about riding on that road was that I got to ride for miles under a canopy of pecan trees. It was beautiful and peaceful, and I found myself looking forward to those rides more than my runs. At the time, I didn't really think of it as training. It was just something to do other than running, and it was too far away to run to. But looking back, I realize that those rides were the foundation of my love for cycling. They were my first taste of the freedom and joy that comes with cycling. Fast forward to today, and I'm still cycling. I've participated in many events o...

Sometimes, life gets in the way of our plans, and we have to adapt. As a cyclist, I know this all too well. On busy days when I can't make time for a ride in the daylight, I turn to the night. There's nothing like riding on a long empty country road at night when the stars are shining bright or the moon is full. The peace and solitude can be almost meditative, and the cool night air can be refreshing. However, riding at night also poses some unique challenges and risks that require extra precautions to stay safe. One of the most important things to consider when riding at night is visibility. Since it's dark, I always make sure that I'm well lit up like a Christmas tree, so other road users can see me. I have a bright white headlight and a red tail light on my bicycle, which are essential for visibility. The spokes on my bike are all reflective too and that helps a great deal when I am crossing intersections. I also wear a reflective clothing and ankle bands , so I...

  When it comes to touring cyclists who have covered the most miles ever, there are a few names that come to mind. However, one cyclist stands out above the rest - Heinz Stücke. Heinz Stücke, born in Germany in 1940, started his cycling journey in 1962 at the age of 22. He set out on his first tour from his hometown of Hövelhof, Germany, with the intention of cycling through Europe. He pedaled through France, Spain, and Portugal, and eventually reached Morocco. He continued his journey through Africa, the Middle East, and Asia, and soon found himself cycling around the world. Stücke's cycling adventure didn't stop there, as he continued to tour for over 50 years, covering a staggering 648,000 kilometers (or approximately 403,000 miles) in total. This distance is equivalent to cycling around the equator over 16 times, or making more than 15 trips from New York to Los Angeles. Stücke's journey took him through over 200 countries, and he was always eager to learn about differe...

Are you ready for a challenge? Riding 100 miles on a bicycle is no easy feat, but it's definitely possible with the right mindset and preparation. In this blog post, we'll discuss what it takes to conquer a century ride and share some tips to help you reach that finish line. First and foremost, let's be clear: riding 100 miles on a bicycle is not for the faint of heart. It's a true test of endurance and patience, and you'll likely experience a fair amount of discomfort along the way. But don't let that discourage you! With proper training and mental preparation, you can overcome the challenges and emerge victorious. One key aspect of long-distance riding is mental toughness. Yes, physical fitness is important, but it's not everything. When you're in the midst of a grueling ride, it's easy to feel overwhelmed and defeated. But with the right mindset, you can learn to manage your thoughts and emotions and push through the difficult moments. Here are a ...

Cycling is a popular form of exercise that can provide a range of health benefits, from improving cardiovascular function to reducing stress and anxiety. But did you know that cycling can also potentially enhance your sexual function and lead to stronger, more intense orgasms? Here's what you need to know about the science behind how cycling can improve orgasms. The Link Between Exercise and Sexual Function Regular exercise, including cycling, can have a positive impact on sexual function for both men and women. This is because exercise can improve cardiovascular health, increase blood flow, and boost the production of sex hormones, all of which can contribute to better sexual function. For women , cycling can help to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, which are important for sexual function and can contribute to stronger, more intense orgasms. In particular, cycling can target the pubococcygeus (PC) muscle, which is responsible for controlling bladder and bowel function as well ...

Cycling is a great way for seniors to stay active and healthy, but it's not uncommon to experience knee pain from time to time. Knee pain can be a frustrating and debilitating issue for cyclists, but with the right knowledge and precautions, it can often be prevented or managed. In this blog post, we'll explore some of the common causes of knee pain in cyclists, as well as some tips for prevention and treatment. Causes of Knee Pain in Cyclists The most common causes of knee pain in cyclists include: Overuse injuries : These occur when you cycle too much or too intensely, without giving your knees enough time to rest and recover. Improper bike fit : If your bike is not adjusted properly to your body, you may be putting excess pressure on your knees, causing pain and discomfort. Muscle imbalances : If your leg muscles are not equally strong, it can cause your kneecap to track improperly, resulting in knee pain. Prevention of Knee Pain in Cyclists Preventing knee pain when cycling...

I am posting this article in the middle of the summer even though it is about winter cycling. There is a good reason for that. By the time Google indexes this post and it gains traction in Google's organic searches, it will be winter and that is why it is being posted in July. Cycling in cold weather can be a challenging experience, especially when it comes to keeping your extremities warm. In particular, the ears, fingers, and toes are the most vulnerable parts of the body during cold rides. To make your winter cycling experience comfortable and enjoyable, it is essential to invest in the right gear to keep these body parts warm and protected. In this article, we'll take a look at the three most important things to have well covered on cold rides and recommend some products from Amazon that can help you stay warm and comfortable on your winter rides. Ears The ears are one of the most sensitive areas of the body when it comes to cold weather. Exposing them to cold wind can caus...

  Bicycling has been a popular form of transportation, recreation, and exercise for over a century. The modern bicycle as we know it today has undergone numerous changes and innovations since its invention in the early 19th century. In this blog post, we will take a look at how bicycles have evolved over time, from the early days of the penny-farthing to the modern-day e-bike, and how seniors have played a role in the evolution of cycling. Early Days of Bicycling: The Penny-Farthing The first bicycles, also known as velocipedes, were invented in the early 19th century. These bicycles had a simple design, with two wheels connected by a wooden frame and pedals attached to the front wheel. However, it was the invention of the penny-farthing in the 1870s that revolutionized bicycling. The penny-farthing was a high-wheeled bicycle with a large front wheel and a small rear wheel. It was named after the British penny and farthing coins, which were of different sizes. The penny-farthing wa...

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...

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...

I used to put in 5,000+ miles a year on my bicycle and pretty much stayed the same weight because I ate a really bad diet. One year I scaled my riding back to about 3,000 miles but changed my diet and dropped 20 pounds. What did that teach me? Cycling alone will not help you lose weight unless you pair it with a sensible approach to nutrition. Cycling with a decent diet will do wonders for you. In fact, the pounds will melt right off. Cycling is a great form of exercise that can provide numerous benefits for your health and fitness. It's a low-impact activity that can help improve cardiovascular health, strengthen muscles, and boost endurance. Additionally, it's a fun and enjoyable way to get outside and explore your surroundings. One of the most popular reasons for cycling is weight loss. Many people turn to cycling as a way to shed excess pounds and improve their overall health. However, despite its many benefits, cycling alone may not be enough to achieve your weight loss go...

  As we age, our risk for heart disease increases. According to the American Heart Association, heart disease is the leading cause of death for people over 65 years old. However, regular exercise can help to reduce this risk, and cycling is an excellent way for seniors to improve their heart health. In this blog post, we'll explore how cycling can benefit the heart health of seniors. Cycling improves cardiovascular fitness Cycling is a form of aerobic exercise, which means it gets the heart and lungs working harder. Regular cycling can improve cardiovascular fitness, which is the ability of the heart and lungs to deliver oxygen to the muscles efficiently. This leads to improved circulation, lower blood pressure, and reduced risk of heart disease. Cycling reduces inflammation Inflammation is a natural response of the body to injury or infection. However, chronic inflammation can contribute to the development of heart disease. Regular exercise, including cycling, has been shown to re...