The Old Guy Bicycle Blog

Last Updated: April 20, 2026 Quick Answer: Both heat and cold bring challenges. But as a 70-year-old cyclist with 155,000+ lifetime miles, I’ll take heat every time. Warm muscles and simple gear beat frozen fingers and stiff legs. I’ve ridden through West Texas heat that felt like a hair dryer blasting my face — and through cold mornings where I couldn’t feel my fingers for the first ten miles. After more than 155,000 miles in the saddle, I’ve formed a clear opinion. ☀️ Cycling in the Heat (My Pick) Heat makes my body feel alive. My cadence flows better. My muscles warm up faster. And I don’t spend half the ride wrestling layers or adjusting zippers. Pros Warm muscles from mile one: Less stiffness, smoother rhythm. No bulky layers: Bib shorts, jersey, done. Hydration discipline: Hot rides force you to drink consistently. Cons Dehydration creeps up fast. Sunburn and UV exposure. Chafing if your bibs aren’t quality. If You Ride in Heat, These Mat...

Acclimating to Cold Weather Cycling: Why Fall Miles Matter Last updated: October 26, 2025 Quick Take: If you skip those first crisp fall rides, winter will feel brutal. Ride through the cool-down now so your body and mind adapt before real cold hits. Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases—at no extra cost to you. Cold-Weather Starter Kit (Real-World Picks) Thermal Gloves (windproof, grippy) — keeps fingers working without bulk. Browse gloves on Amazon Merino Base Layer (long sleeve) — wicks sweat, stays warm even damp. Men’s options  |  Women’s options Wind/Rain Shell (packable) — vents fast so sweat doesn’t freeze later. Men’s jackets  |  Women’s jackets Shoe Covers / Toe Caps — feet warm = ride lasts longer. See options ...