The Old Guy Bicycle Blog

Updated July 18, 2026 One of the things I’ve come to realize after decades in the saddle is that cycling connects people in ways that few other things can. Whether it's for five minutes or five hours, riding side by side with someone can form a bond that sticks — even if the moment passes and you never see each other again. There are two rides that stand out in my memory, even though years — even decades — have gone by. I never exchanged full names or kept in touch with either of these people. But they’ve stayed with me, clear as a tailwind on a sunny day. 100 Miles of Camaraderie One year during the 24 Hours in the Canyon event at Palo Duro Canyon, I found myself riding the first stretch alongside a man I had never met before. We were similar in ability and resolve, and it just worked. We climbed out of the canyon together and covered the first 100 miles side by side, talking like old friends the entire way. I don’t remember his name now. I think he was from somewhere near Amarill...