The Old Guy Bicycle Blog

  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 ...

Should a 70-Year-Old Ride a Bike? Absolutely. Cycling is one of the best exercises for older adults—and yes, that includes 70-year-olds. It's low-impact, easy on the joints, and fully adaptable to your personal pace and goals. Whether you're riding around the block or preparing for a cross-country tour, the benefits are profound and lasting. As someone who’s been riding for decades and completed a 962-mile ride across Texas at age 65, I’m now training for a ride from Canada to Mexico as a 70-year-old—and I feel better than ever. Benefits of Cycling for Seniors Over 70 1. Boosts Heart Health Cycling raises your heart rate safely and steadily, helping reduce your risk of heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure. 2. Supports Joint and Bone Health Unlike high-impact activities, cycling is gentle on knees and hips. It can also help slow bone density loss and reduce osteoporosis risk. 3. Improves Balance and Coordination Better balance means fewer falls. Cycling sharpens ...