The Old Guy Bicycle Blog

In 2016, I was riding from Lubbock, Texas to Pensacola, Florida. It was a long and challenging ride, but I was having a great time. One day, I was about 10 miles into an 80-mile day when I broke a spoke. I was in a very secluded area, and I didn't see another cyclist or car for hours. But I was prepared. I had the gear I needed and the knowledge to fix my spoke. Without it, my ride would have ended on day 2. This experience taught me two important things that are essential for any long distance cyclist: basic bicycle repair knowledge and a positive attitude. Basic Bicycle Repair Knowledge Even if you are a seasoned cyclist, you are bound to encounter some mechanical problems on a long distance tour. You may be far away from home and bike shops, so it is important to be able to fix basic problems yourself. Here are a few things you should know how to do: Change a tire Fix a broken chain Adjust your brakes and gears True your wheels Replace a cable Replace a broken spoke You c...

If you're a senior cyclist looking for an exciting way to explore the United States, a cross-country cycling tour might be just the adventure you're looking for. With two primary routes to choose from - the Northern Tier and Southern Tier - you have a lot to consider before you hit the road. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at the differences between these two popular routes, so you can make an informed decision about which one is best for your goals and preferences. Northern Tier Route The Northern Tier Route is a 4,265-mile journey that takes cyclists from Anacortes, Washington, to Bar Harbor, Maine, through some of the most scenic and remote areas of the northern United States. While this route offers breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains, the Great Lakes region, and the Atlantic Coast, it is not for the faint of heart. The Northern Tier is known for its challenging terrain, with long stretches of steep mountain climbs and descents. Cyclists will also enco...