The Old Guy Bicycle Blog

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

  Cycling has been long hailed as an environmentally-friendly mode of transportation, and for good reason. But does riding a bicycle truly mean you have gone green? Let's take a closer look at the environmental impact of cycling. First and foremost, cycling produces no emissions. This means that riding a bicycle is a zero-emission mode of transportation, which is great for the environment. In contrast, cars, buses, and trains all produce emissions that contribute to air pollution and climate change. So in terms of emissions, cycling is definitely a green option. However, there are some environmental costs associated with cycling. For one, bicycles require resources to manufacture, including metals, plastics, and other materials. The production of these materials can have a significant environmental impact, including pollution and carbon emissions. Additionally, bicycles require maintenance, which can also have an environmental impact. The production and disposal of bicycle componen

  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

  Cycling is a wonderful way to stay active, explore new places, and connect with like-minded individuals. However, as with any community, there may be individuals who exhibit behavior that is perceived as elitist or entitled. This can be harmful and divisive, and can create an unwelcoming atmosphere for those who are new to cycling or who do not fit into a certain mold. As cyclists, it is our responsibility to foster a positive and inclusive community that welcomes individuals of all backgrounds, experience levels, and interests. Here are some tips for Fostering Inclusivity and Combating Elitism in the Cycling Community: Lead by example : One of the most effective ways to combat elitism and entitlement is to model positive behavior yourself. Follow traffic laws, show consideration for other road users, and prioritize safety over speed or performance. By demonstrating respect and consideration for others, you can inspire others to do the same. Promote education and knowledge-sharing :

 Top-Rated Bicycle Companies for Touring Bicycles: A Guide to Choosing the Right Bike for Your Long-Distance Adventures I am going to write just a little bit about the top rated bicycle companies for touring bikes. The bike I ride is not among these companies. I once rode a Specialized AWOl but the chainstay cracked and Specialized gave me a Specialized Diverge as a replacement. I like it a lot and used it for a 962 mile tour from north Texas to South Padre Island. It hauled my BOB trailer and did great. I am currently thinking about getting the Surly Long Haul Trucker as my next bike, but that is a year or so away and I could change my mind. When it comes to touring bicycles, it's important to choose a reliable and durable brand that can handle the rigors of long-distance rides. Whether you're embarking on a multi-day bikepacking trip or a cross-country tour, a high-quality touring bike can make all the difference. Here are some of the top-rated bicycle companies for touring b

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

Let's take a break from the usual advice, stories, equipments posts and look at the entertainment field of cycling. Cycling has been a popular sport for many years, and it's no surprise that there are plenty of movies about this exhilarating activity. Whether you're a cycling enthusiast or just looking for an inspiring and exciting movie to watch, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are some of the best cycling-related movies of all time. Breaking Away (1979) Breaking Away is a classic movie about four friends from working-class families who dream of a better life. The film is set in Indiana and follows the group as they prepare for the annual "Little 500" bicycle race. The movie is filled with heartwarming moments, including the main character's romance with a university student, and it showcases the joys and challenges of competitive cycling. The Flying Scotsman (2006) This movie is based on the true story of Graeme Obree, a Scottish cyclist who

Cycling shorts are an essential piece of equipment for any serious cyclist. Not only do they provide a level of comfort that regular shorts can’t match, but they also help prevent chafing and skin irritation. However, it's not just a matter of putting on any old pair of cycling shorts and hitting the road. There is a proper way of wearing cycling shorts that will help you get the most out of them. In this blog post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the proper way of wearing cycling shorts. Choose the right size The first and most important step to wearing cycling shorts properly is to choose the right size. Cycling shorts should fit snugly without being too tight. If they're too loose, they'll bunch up and cause discomfort, while if they're too tight, they'll restrict movement and circulation. Make sure to refer to the manufacturer's sizing chart to determine the right size for you. Get the right style There are two main styles of cycling shorts: bi

Dear 13-year-old me, I'm writing to you from the year 2023, and I want to tell you how much cycling has mattered to me in my life. I know that you're not a big fan of cycling right now. You think it's boring and slow, and you'd rather be doing something else, like hanging out with your friends. But I want you to know that cycling is going to become one of the most important things in your life. As you get older, you're going to start to appreciate the freedom and flexibility that cycling gives you. You'll be able to go wherever you want, whenever you want, without having to worry about traffic or parking. You'll also start to appreciate the health benefits of cycling. It's a great way to stay in shape, and it can help to reduce your risk of heart disease, stroke, and other chronic health conditions. But most importantly, cycling is going to give you a sense of adventure. You'll get to explore new places, meet new people, and see the world from a diff

Cycling is a popular mode of transportation and exercise for millions of people worldwide. However, there's a persistent perception among some people that cyclists are elitist snobs. This is a misconception that is not only unfair but also inaccurate. There are several reasons why this perception exists. One of the primary reasons is the high cost associated with high-end bicycles and cycling gear. Many people assume that those who invest in these items must be wealthy and therefore snobbish. However, it's important to remember that not all cyclists use top-of-the-line equipment. In fact, many cyclists opt for affordable, second-hand bikes and gear. Another reason why cyclists may be perceived as elitist is the competitive nature of some cycling communities. For example, road cycling can be a very competitive sport, with cyclists vying for the fastest times and the most challenging routes. This competitive environment can create an exclusive and sometimes unwelcoming atmosphere

I never realized how much riding a bicycle would impact my life until I started doing it regularly. When I first got on a bike, it was purely for fun - I wanted to feel the wind in my hair and the sun on my face. But as I started cycling more and more, I began to realize just how much it was changing me, both physically and mentally. For one thing, cycling helped me become more active and fit. Before I started riding, I was pretty sedentary and weighed 275 pounds - I spent most of my days sitting on the couch. But once I started cycling regularly, I found that I had more energy and felt stronger. I could ride longer distances and tackle more challenging terrain. I also noticed that I was losing weight and toning my muscles, which made me feel more confident and proud of my body. But it wasn't just the physical benefits that made a difference. Riding a bike also helped me become more mentally resilient. When I was first starting out, I would often get frustrated by hills or tired le

I love cycling but I always notice many more men out there riding when I go for my training rides. I got to thinking about why there are not as many women cyclists and what can be done so I researched it and this is what I found. Cycling is a popular activity enjoyed by people of all ages and genders. However, statistics show that there are more male cyclists than female cyclists. In this blog post, we will explore the reasons behind this gender gap in cycling and discuss potential solutions to make cycling more equitable. Reasons behind the gender gap in cycling: Safety concerns: One of the main reasons why women are less likely to cycle is due to safety concerns. Women are more likely to feel vulnerable and at risk while cycling, especially on busy roads or at night. This fear of traffic and potential accidents is a significant deterrent for women who may be hesitant to take up cycling. Lack of infrastructure: Another reason why women are less likely to cycle is the lack of infrastru

As a fellow cycling enthusiast, I completely understand the fear that can arise when faced with the possibility of a flat tire. When I first started riding my bike, I was always apprehensive about venturing too far away from home. I was afraid that if I got a flat tire, I wouldn't be able to fix it and would be stranded. But one day, I decided to face my fear and learn how to change a flat tire, and it changed my life. Now, I regularly travel hundreds of miles from home on my bicycle, all by myself, without any fear or hesitation. The truth is, learning how to change a flat tire is one of the most important skills you can have as a cyclist. It's not a matter of if you'll get a flat tire, but when. So, being prepared and knowing how to handle the situation can save you a lot of time, frustration, and even money. I am going to put a couple of options for tire changing kits you can purchase at Amazon down below. Some give you tools that include a mini-pump but I prefer using C

As more people look for sustainable modes of transportation, cycling to work has become increasingly popular. Not only is it good for the environment, but it can also benefit your physical and mental health. In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of cycling to work and why you should consider incorporating it into your daily routine. Save Money Commuting to work on a bicycle can have a significant positive impact on your finances. Here's an in-depth exploration of the cost-saving aspects of cycling as a mode of transportation: Eliminate Fuel Costs: One of the most apparent financial benefits of cycling to work is the elimination of fuel costs. As gas prices continue to rise, owning and operating a vehicle can become a considerable expense. By choosing to cycle instead, you completely remove the need to fill up your gas tank, saving a substantial amount of money in the long run. The cost savings become even more pronounced if you have a long commute or encounter heavy traff