The Old Guy Bicycle Blog

My Lifetime Love Affair with Long-Distance Cycling Quick Answer: Long-distance cycling is more than fitness—it’s freedom, resilience, and discovery. Every mile teaches persistence, perspective, and gratitude. Whether you’re new to endurance rides or a seasoned cyclist, the journey changes you. 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. 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...

As we age, getting a good night’s sleep can feel harder than ever. Tossing and turning, waking up at 2 a.m., or feeling groggy even after a full night’s sleep—sound familiar? But what if something as simple and enjoyable as riding a bike could help? 🛌 Pedal Your Way to Better Sleep Research has shown that moderate exercise like cycling significantly improves sleep quality in older adults. Here’s how two wheels can lead to sweet dreams: 🚲 Reduces stress and anxiety Cycling releases endorphins—natural mood boosters that ease tension and promote relaxation, reducing nighttime restlessness. 🚲 Promotes physical fatigue in a healthy way Using up energy through physical activity helps you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. 🚲 Helps regulate your internal clock Cycling in the morning or early afternoon helps sync your circadian rhythm , the body’s sleep-wake cycle. 🚲 Boosts overall health Better cardiovascular health, stronger muscles, and improved mental clarity all contribut...

🌟 Whether it’s transportation, a workout, or a moment of joy, the meaning of a bike ride depends on who's in the saddle. In this post, I explore all the ways a simple ride can shape our lives — from commuting and fitness to freedom and connection. More Than Just a Ride What exactly is a bike ride? For one person, it might be the morning commute. For another, it’s the weekend workout. And for many, it’s a memory — a childhood afternoon with scraped knees and the wind whistling past. That’s the beauty of biking. It’s not defined by miles or gear. It’s defined by meaning. Let’s take a look at the many ways a bike ride can show up in someone’s life — and why every version is worth celebrating. 🚲 Transportation: A Simpler, Smarter Way to Get Around For city dwellers, students, or even retirees running errands, the bicycle is a trusted companion. It’s a tool — efficient, affordable, and green. No gas. No traffic jams. No parking meters. Just you, your bike, and the open...

  As an avid cyclist, I’ve discovered that one of the greatest freedoms on two wheels is the ability to choose your own path — literally and figuratively. For me, that often means riding solo. There’s something deeply satisfying about setting your own pace, stopping when you want, and soaking in the scenery without distraction. One of my most memorable solo rides was in New Mexico, 45 miles from the nearest town. Just me, my bike, and the road — total solitude, total peace. That’s not to say I haven’t enjoyed group rides. Over the years, I’ve joined a few organized tours and met some fantastic people. Swapping stories, laughing through tough climbs, and offering encouragement during hard miles — the social side of cycling can be just as rewarding. But I’ve also experienced the downside: overly competitive groups where someone always tries to prove something. That kind of energy isn’t for me. The beauty of cycling is this: you don’t have to choose one forever. You can be a lone w...