The Old Guy Bicycle Blog

Cycling Gear I Can’t Ride Without: Lessons From the Road After thousands of miles in the saddle, I’ve come to realize that some cycling gear becomes more than just equipment—it becomes part of the journey. This post isn’t about selling you the latest high-tech gadgets or pushing fancy brands. It’s about sharing the cycling gear that’s earned its keep on my rides over the years. 1. A Helmet That Fits Like a Glove I never used to think much about helmets—until a crash reminded me just how important the right fit and ventilation really are. My current helmet isn’t flashy, but it’s comfortable, cools well, and gives me peace of mind. 2. Padded Shorts (Yes, Even on Short Rides) If I had a dollar for every mile I’ve ridden in padded shorts, I could probably buy a new bike. The right pair of cycling shorts can make or break a ride, especially on multi-day tours or long training days. 3. Gloves That Protect (and Remind Me to Wave) My gloves serve two purposes: grip and greetings. Th...

  The open road. The wind in my face. The rhythmic hum of tires against pavement. For as long as I can remember, long-distance cycling has been more than a hobby—it's been a passion, a calling, and a companion through the decades . Where It All Began It started simply: a child’s wobbly ride around the block. But those loops quickly turned into laps, and soon, the horizon was calling. My first true long-distance ride—50 miles—felt like a leap into the unknown. Nervous, aching, unsure... but determined. I finished that ride, and in that moment, something clicked. I was hooked for life. Why Long-Distance Cycling Matters There’s a special kind of magic in long-distance rides. It’s not about speed or medals. It’s about freedom, solitude, and discovery. When you ride for hours—sometimes days—you enter a rhythm that feels almost meditative. Distractions fade, and clarity sets in. Each ride becomes a journey not just through landscapes, but through yourself. Lessons from the Road ...

Cycling can be an incredible way to stay fit, enjoy the outdoors, and push yourself toward new goals. For many of us, it’s more than a hobby—it’s a passion that brings joy, purpose, and even healing. But like any passion, cycling can sometimes become all-consuming. And when that happens, it can quietly begin to hurt the people closest to us. This is something I’ve struggled with personally. As someone who trains and tours long distances, I know how easy it is to let the bike take over. But if we’re not careful, the very thing that gives us life can become a wedge between us and the people we love. ⏳ Cycling Takes Time—and Sometimes Too Much Training rides, recovery days, route planning—it all adds up. When you're chasing a personal goal, it's tempting to justify every extra mile. But over time, that can mean less time for your spouse, kids, friends, or even simple conversations at home. If your loved ones feel they’re always taking second place to the bike, tension and rese...

Cycling is more than just a way to stay fit or enjoy the great outdoors — it might also turn up the heat in the bedroom. While that may sound surprising, the truth is this: what’s good for your heart is often good for your sex life , and cycling happens to be one of the best heart-healthy activities out there. Let’s explore the science behind how time in the saddle could lead to stronger, more satisfying orgasms — for both men and women. 💓 The Exercise–Orgasm Connection Regular physical activity like cycling boosts cardiovascular health, improves circulation, reduces stress, and increases energy. All of those are important for a satisfying sex life. But the benefits go even deeper: Improved blood flow to the genitals heightens arousal and sensation Hormonal regulation (including testosterone and endorphins) supports libido and mood Better body confidence can enhance intimacy and connection For both men and women, cycling strengthens the systems that support sexual f...

The years may have passed, but the thrill of the ride hasn’t faded. For senior cyclists, the wind in your hair and the hum of the wheels still spark joy. But what if you could share that joy with someone who matches your rhythm—your cycling soul mate? Finding a riding partner in your golden years isn’t just about fitness—it’s about connection. Shared laughs on scenic trails. Mutual encouragement on steep climbs. Quiet moments as the sun rises behind the hills. Here’s how to find that perfect cycling companion who understands the joy of the ride and the meaning behind it. 1. Look Within Your Riding Circles You don’t have to look far. That person who always matches your pace on group rides? The one who shares your love for old steel frames or early-morning pedals? They might just be your perfect match—on the bike, and maybe beyond. 2. Join Senior-Specific Cycling Groups There are clubs and communities built just for you. Groups like the Adventure Cycling Association’s 50+ Club or Silve...

Finding Your Bicycle Soul Mate: A Journey of Two Wheels and One Perfect Ride The bicycle. A simple machine, yes—but also a key to something far more profound. For many of us, it’s more than just transportation or exercise. It's a path to freedom, a connection to the outdoors, and occasionally... a deep, soulful bond. That’s where the idea of a bicycle soul mate comes in. What Is a Bicycle Soul Mate? Your bicycle soul mate isn’t just a bike that fits well and looks great (though those things do matter). It’s the ride that feels like an extension of your body and spirit. It’s the one that inspires early-morning adventures, cheers you on through the grind of steep climbs, and brings a grin to your face with every turn of the crank. It’s not just a tool. It’s a companion. A co-adventurer. A partner in the poetry of movement. How to Find Your Perfect Bicycle Match Finding that perfect bike isn’t always instant—it’s a journey. Here’s how to get closer to that two-wheeled connection: 1....

Pedal Through the Bad Days: How Cycling Can Lift Your Mood and Lighten Your Soul Life throws curveballs. Maybe you aced that big presentation, only to have it go unnoticed. Maybe you missed your train and ended up stuck in traffic. Or maybe it’s just one of those days when everything feels a little too much . We’ve all been there. And while another cup of coffee or an aimless scroll through your phone might feel like easy solutions, there’s something far more powerful—and healing—waiting just outside your door. All you need is your bike. Why Cycling Works When Nothing Else Does There’s a reason cycling is known as a natural mood booster. It’s not just the physical movement—it’s the rhythm, the air, the space, the sense of control. Here's what makes cycling the perfect antidote to a rough day: Endorphins at Work: Exercise releases feel-good chemicals in your brain, melting stress and lifting your spirits. Meditative Movement: The steady rhythm of pedaling calms the min...

Spinning Away the Blues: Why Cycling Feels Like the Answer to Everything For some of us, cycling isn't just a hobby, it's an inherent part of our being. It's woven into the fabric of our DNA, a constant hum in the background that reverberates through every aspect of life. And it's true, there's an almost magical way in which a simple spin can solve a multitude of woes, leaving us feeling lighter, brighter, and back in tune with ourselves. Think about it. Feeling under the weather? A heady dose of fresh air and the rhythmic churn of your pedals can clear the cobwebs and invigorate your immune system. Grumpiness threatening to engulf your day? A good, hard ride serves as a pressure valve, releasing pent-up frustration and leaving you with a newfound sense of calm. Need to crack the code on that elusive creative block? The rhythmic thump of your wheels on the pavement can unlock a hidden chamber of inspiration, sending ideas swirling like leaves in ...