The Old Guy Bicycle Blog

Cycling Over 60: The Advice I Wish Someone Had Given Me Cycling over 60 isn’t about chasing speed — it’s about chasing freedom, health, and joy. I’ve logged thousands of miles in my 60s and now at 69, and I can tell you: this sport has changed my life. But I didn’t always know what I was doing. I made mistakes. I learned the hard way. And if you’re just getting into cycling — or want to do it smarter and safer — here’s the advice I wish someone had given me years ago. 🚴‍♂️ 1. Comfort Matters More Than Speed You don’t need an expensive race bike. You need a bike that fits your body and makes you want to ride again tomorrow. Prioritize: Upright posture A saddle that works for your anatomy Tires with a little cushion I started with a basic road bike and slowly dialed it in. Now my setup feels like an extension of me. 🧠 2. Your Mind Will Try to Quit Before Your Body Does The first few weeks are the hardest. You’ll feel slow. You’ll doubt yourself. Ignore it. Your b...

Cycling is a fantastic activity at any age, and senior cyclists are becoming a powerful and passionate force on the road. The open air, steady motion, and sense of accomplishment all contribute to a healthier, happier life. But let’s face it—our bodies change with time. That doesn’t mean giving up long-distance cycling—it just means adjusting how we ride. Listen to Your Body It sounds simple, but it’s the most important tip for older cyclists. Recovery takes longer as we age, so pushing like you did in your twenties may not work anymore—and that’s okay. Pay attention to soreness, fatigue, or lingering pain. Rest days aren’t weakness; they’re wisdom in action. The key is consistency over intensity. Prioritize Endurance Over Power Muscle mass naturally declines with age, making high-intensity efforts less effective—and sometimes less enjoyable. Shift your focus to endurance. Long, steady rides at a comfortable pace improve cardiovascular health and stamina without excessive strain. You’l...

As someone who has been cycling for over 50 years, I’ve experienced the many physical and mental benefits that come from life on two wheels. From improved cardiovascular health to reduced stress and anxiety, cycling has helped me stay active, grounded, and energized well into my retirement years. But I also know the road isn’t always smooth — especially as we age. Staying active as an older cyclist can come with new challenges. Joints may ache a little more. Flexibility might not be what it once was. And staying motivated sometimes requires more than willpower alone. That’s why I’m here — to share what I’ve learned over the years, and to support anyone who wants to keep pedaling toward their goals, no matter their age or limitations. 🚴‍♂️ Start Where You Are — And Set Realistic Goals One of the most powerful things about cycling is that it meets you where you are. Whether you're riding a few miles around the neighborhood or training for a multi-day tour, the key is setting realis...