The Old Guy Bicycle Blog

Why Bike Lanes Matter More Than Most People Realize 🚴‍♂️ Quick Take: A good bike lane can mean the difference between a close call and a catastrophe. After a lifetime of cycling — and one crash that could have ended far worse — I’ve learned firsthand why cities like Lubbock need better cycling infrastructure now, not later. Why Bike Lanes Matter More Than Most People Realize As cyclists, we all know the uneasy balance of sharing the road with vehicles that outweigh us by thousands of pounds. A bike lane isn’t just a strip of paint — it’s often the only physical space between us and potential tragedy. And after decades on two wheels, I can say this with certainty: bike lanes save lives. But here in Lubbock, Texas , our bike lane network leaves a lot to be desired. There are a few scattered routes, and while they offer some protection, they’re often disconnected, poorly maintained, or built on streets that still feel unsafe to ride. Compared to cities like...

Quick Take: Cyclists have the same legal right to the road as drivers. Whether you're behind the wheel or on two wheels, mutual respect can save lives and make every trip smoother. I’m Not a Moron. I’m a Cyclist with the Same Rights You Have. I’m tired of being shouted at from car windows or treated like I don’t belong on the road—just because I choose to ride a bicycle. Let’s be clear: bicycles are recognized vehicles under the law. I have just as much right to use the road as you do. You may not like it, but that doesn’t make it any less true. I ride for a lot of reasons — it’s healthier, better for the environment, and honestly, it brings me peace. I’m not trying to slow you down. I’m just trying to get where I’m going, just like you. So if you see me out there, you don’t need to yell, honk, or swerve toward me. Just pass with care and move on. You drive. I ride. We can both get there safely. 🚗 For Drivers: How to Keep Cyclists Safe Obey the speed lim...

Updated: April 20, 2026 After decades of cycling, I’ve reached my breaking point. Lately, it feels like drivers are growing more careless, not less. They pass too close, honk like we’re invisible, and treat cyclists like second-class citizens. I used to think it was just a few bad apples — now it feels like a whole spoiled orchard. 🚗 Too Close for Comfort You’re riding along, doing everything right, and suddenly a car brushes by just inches from your handlebars. Do drivers understand how dangerous that is? Even the wind alone can throw a cyclist off balance. 🚪 The Dreaded Dooring Every cyclist knows this nightmare. A parked car suddenly opens its door without warning — and you’re the bullseye. I’ve avoided it by sheer luck and quick reflexes, but many aren’t so fortunate. 🔁 The Right Hook This one really gets me: a driver sitting at an intersection sees you coming… then still makes a sharp right turn directly in your path. It’s reckless, it’s disrespectful, and it’s happe...

Should America Build a Coast-to-Coast Bicycle Trail? Last Updated: October 28, 2025 Quick Take: A safe, car-free bicycle trail stretching from the Atlantic to the Pacific would pay off in health, safety, tourism, and small-town economies—if we build it smart. Imagine riding ocean to ocean without sharing lanes with cars. Bicycling is booming—for commuting, fitness, and adventure. If America wants safer roads, stronger small towns, and cleaner travel options, the next step is obvious: connect the country with a continuous, car-free bicycle and pedestrian trail from coast to coast. The Vision Picture one protected route linking beach towns, prairies, mountain passes, national parks, and main streets—thousands of miles you can ride without battling traffic. The idea isn’t fantasy; it builds on proven corridors and existing trail networks. What’s missing is national coordination and funding to stitch it together into a true cross-country spine. If you’ve ever planne...