The Old Guy Bicycle Blog

Last Updated: April 20, 2026 Quick Answer: Both heat and cold bring challenges. But as a 70-year-old cyclist with 155,000+ lifetime miles, I’ll take heat every time. Warm muscles and simple gear beat frozen fingers and stiff legs. I’ve ridden through West Texas heat that felt like a hair dryer blasting my face — and through cold mornings where I couldn’t feel my fingers for the first ten miles. After more than 155,000 miles in the saddle, I’ve formed a clear opinion. ☀️ Cycling in the Heat (My Pick) Heat makes my body feel alive. My cadence flows better. My muscles warm up faster. And I don’t spend half the ride wrestling layers or adjusting zippers. Pros Warm muscles from mile one: Less stiffness, smoother rhythm. No bulky layers: Bib shorts, jersey, done. Hydration discipline: Hot rides force you to drink consistently. Cons Dehydration creeps up fast. Sunburn and UV exposure. Chafing if your bibs aren’t quality. If You Ride in Heat, These Mat...

Update June 2026 Quick Take: Proper hydration can mean the difference between finishing your ride strong and ending up in serious danger. Long-distance cyclists should plan for worst-case scenarios by carrying more water than they think they'll need—and the right electrolyte solution to prevent cramps and heat exhaustion. Cycling is one of the best ways to stay fit, explore new places, and clear your head. But whether you’re riding 10 miles or 100, hydration is non-negotiable . I learned this lesson the hard way on a brutal tour from Carlsbad, NM to San Angelo, TX—an experience that nearly ended my cycling career and could have ended my life. The Ride That Almost Cost Me Everything In 2004, I set off on a multi-day ride across Texas. Day two was a scorcher—120 miles from Hobbs to Big Spring. I thought I had planned well: bottles full, jersey pockets loaded, convenience store stops mapped out. But after turning at Andrews, a 25 mph headwind hit me in the face, and the store ...