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...

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...

  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...