The Old Guy Bicycle Blog

The Rearview Mirror That Saved My Life (And Why I Still Use It on Every Ride) There aren’t many cycling accessories I’d call “life-saving,” but this one absolutely earns that title. I’ve been riding with the Bike Peddler Take A Look mirror since 2014, and I can honestly say it has saved my life at least three times. Plastic Mirrors Let Me Down — This One Didn’t Before I found the Bike Peddler mirror, I tried a handful of other rearview mirrors. Most of them were made of flimsy plastic and either broke quickly or shook so much that they were useless. On long tours and daily rides, I couldn’t rely on them — and that’s dangerous when you’re sharing the road with distracted drivers. Since I installed this mirror, I’ve never looked back. Well... actually, I look back almost as much as I look forward now. That’s the point. It Saved Me More Than Once I remember one moment clearly. I was riding a quiet stretch of road when I saw a car veering over the white line behind me — head...

From San Diego Dreams to a Lubbock Reset I trained for nearly a year — over 6,000 miles in the saddle — with one big goal: to ride from San Diego to Las Cruces. But sometimes life throws a wrench into your derailleur. On that long tour, I had a freak accident that broke my bicycle and forced me to cut the ride short and head home. It wasn’t the ending I trained for, but I wasn’t about to stop pedaling. While my bike was in the shop (for what would turn out to be two weeks), I didn’t miss a beat. I swapped the open road for my indoor trainer and just kept riding. Not glamorous — but it kept my legs moving and my spirit grounded. Biopsy, Broken Crank, and Broken Momentum The day I got my bike back, I had a six-month checkup — and the doctor did a biopsy on a suspicious spot on my lower leg. That same afternoon, I tried riding outside again, but my gears were all over the place. Back to the shop I went. The next day they called with more bad news: my crank needed replacing. The part would...

What Makes a Great Cycling Helmet? (And How I Chose Mine) When I started cycling more seriously, I thought all helmets were pretty much the same. As long as it fit and looked decent, that was enough—right? Turns out, there’s a lot more that goes into choosing a great cycling helmet than most people think. After thousands of miles on the road and a few close calls, I’ve learned to appreciate the small features that make a huge difference. This post isn’t about the most expensive gear—just what matters most when you’re looking for a helmet that protects, performs, and lasts. 1. Certified Safety Standards At a minimum, your helmet should be CPSC certified in the U.S. That means it meets basic impact protection standards. Some helmets go further with MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System), which helps reduce rotational forces in a crash. 2. Fit and Adjustability A good helmet should fit snug but not tight. The best ones offer dial-adjust systems that let you tweak the ...

Cycling Gear I Can’t Ride Without: Lessons From the Road After thousands of miles in the saddle, I’ve come to realize that some cycling gear becomes more than just equipment—it becomes part of the journey. This post isn’t about selling you the latest high-tech gadgets or pushing fancy brands. It’s about sharing the cycling gear that’s earned its keep on my rides over the years. 1. A Helmet That Fits Like a Glove I never used to think much about helmets—until a crash reminded me just how important the right fit and ventilation really are. My current helmet isn’t flashy, but it’s comfortable, cools well, and gives me peace of mind. 2. Padded Shorts (Yes, Even on Short Rides) If I had a dollar for every mile I’ve ridden in padded shorts, I could probably buy a new bike. The right pair of cycling shorts can make or break a ride, especially on multi-day tours or long training days. 3. Gloves That Protect (and Remind Me to Wave) My gloves serve two purposes: grip and greetings. Th...

There’s something deeply satisfying about gliding down a quiet road on two wheels, especially when you're a little older and have a few more stories to tell. Cycling has given me freedom, strength, and more than a few hard-earned lessons. In this post, I want to share the most valuable senior cycling tips I've learned — not just from books or YouTube videos, but from the road itself. Whether you’re a retired rider rediscovering the saddle or a senior athlete pushing for your next personal best, these tips will help you ride safer, smarter, and with a lot more joy. 🚴‍♂️ Gear: Invest in Comfort and Confidence When I first got back into cycling in my 60s, I underestimated the power of good gear. I rode with the same shoes I mowed the lawn in and a hand-me-down helmet that barely fit. Big mistake. Now, I swear by: A well-fitted bike : I had mine adjusted professionally and it made a world of difference. Padded cycling shorts : Trust me — they’re worth every penny. Gloves ...

Cycling is a fantastic activity at any age, and senior cyclists are becoming a powerful and passionate force on the road. The open air, steady motion, and sense of accomplishment all contribute to a healthier, happier life. But let’s face it—our bodies change with time. That doesn’t mean giving up long-distance cycling—it just means adjusting how we ride. Listen to Your Body It sounds simple, but it’s the most important tip for older cyclists. Recovery takes longer as we age, so pushing like you did in your twenties may not work anymore—and that’s okay. Pay attention to soreness, fatigue, or lingering pain. Rest days aren’t weakness; they’re wisdom in action. The key is consistency over intensity. Prioritize Endurance Over Power Muscle mass naturally declines with age, making high-intensity efforts less effective—and sometimes less enjoyable. Shift your focus to endurance. Long, steady rides at a comfortable pace improve cardiovascular health and stamina without excessive strain. You’l...

When I set out on a solo bicycle tour across the eastern United States, I expected the usual challenges — physical exhaustion, unpredictable weather, mechanical breakdowns. What I didn’t expect was an emotional detour that would quietly test my values and sense of commitment. I was excited to explore new roads, meet new people, and soak in the freedom that long-distance cycling offers. One afternoon, while hunting for a bike path that promised 30 peaceful, traffic-free miles, I stopped near a vintage art store in a small town. That’s where I met her. She approached as I adjusted my gear and asked if I was biking cross-country. Her voice had a warm Cajun lilt. She told me she owned the art store. My Texas drawl intrigued her as much as her accent intrigued me. We talked for nearly 45 minutes — about the road, about art, about life. She was warm, confident, and easy to talk to — the kind of person who feels instantly familiar, even though you’ve only just met. As I got ready to leave...

🚴‍♂️ Cycling for Seniors: Smart, Safe, and Life-Changing Tips for Riders Over 60 Staying active as we age is one of the best gifts we can give ourselves — and cycling for seniors is one of the most enjoyable, low-impact ways to do just that. Whether you're returning to the bike after decades or you're already riding regularly, these practical tips will help you ride smarter, safer, and more confidently. 💪 Why Cycling Is Great for Seniors Cycling keeps your heart healthy, muscles strong, and joints moving — all without the pounding of high-impact activities like running. It’s also a proven way to: Improve balance and coordination Ease arthritis pain and stiffness Boost mental health and reduce stress Connect socially with others through rides and clubs 🧠 Bonus: Studies show seniors who cycle regularly have better memory, faster reflexes, and greater emotional well-being. 🛠️ Bike Setup Tips for Comfort and Safety As we age, comfort becomes more impor...

When the World Sleeps, I Ride Sometimes, life gets in the way of our plans—and as a cyclist, I’ve learned to adapt. On busy days when I can’t fit in a daytime ride, I turn to the night. There’s something magical about cycling under the stars, especially on a long, quiet country road. The cool air, the moonlight, the solitude—it’s almost meditative. But as peaceful as it is, night cycling comes with real risks . Visibility drops. Hazards are harder to spot. And let’s face it—drivers don’t always expect to see a cyclist at 10 p.m. That’s why I’ve developed a personal checklist of night cycling safety tips that keep me safe, seen, and still able to enjoy the ride. 1. Be Seen or Don’t Ride Visibility is everything when you’re biking after dark. I light myself up like a Christmas tree—because if a driver can’t see me, nothing else matters. Here’s my go-to setup: A powerful white headlight A bright red taillight Reflective spoke covers ( like these ) Reflecti...

Cycling is more than just a way to stay fit or enjoy the great outdoors — it might also turn up the heat in the bedroom. While that may sound surprising, the truth is this: what’s good for your heart is often good for your sex life , and cycling happens to be one of the best heart-healthy activities out there. Let’s explore the science behind how time in the saddle could lead to stronger, more satisfying orgasms — for both men and women. 💓 The Exercise–Orgasm Connection Regular physical activity like cycling boosts cardiovascular health, improves circulation, reduces stress, and increases energy. All of those are important for a satisfying sex life. But the benefits go even deeper: Improved blood flow to the genitals heightens arousal and sensation Hormonal regulation (including testosterone and endorphins) supports libido and mood Better body confidence can enhance intimacy and connection For both men and women, cycling strengthens the systems that support sexual f...

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...

The years may have passed, but the thrill of the ride hasn’t faded. For senior cyclists, the wind in your hair and the hum of the wheels still spark joy. But what if you could share that joy with someone who matches your rhythm—your cycling soul mate? Finding a riding partner in your golden years isn’t just about fitness—it’s about connection. Shared laughs on scenic trails. Mutual encouragement on steep climbs. Quiet moments as the sun rises behind the hills. Here’s how to find that perfect cycling companion who understands the joy of the ride and the meaning behind it. 1. Look Within Your Riding Circles You don’t have to look far. That person who always matches your pace on group rides? The one who shares your love for old steel frames or early-morning pedals? They might just be your perfect match—on the bike, and maybe beyond. 2. Join Senior-Specific Cycling Groups There are clubs and communities built just for you. Groups like the Adventure Cycling Association’s 50+ Club or Silve...

Fueling Your Ride from the Inside Out When you’re logging long miles, grinding up hills, or pushing through headwinds, you think about training, gear, hydration — but do you think about magnesium? If not, you should. This often-overlooked mineral might just be the secret weapon your body’s been missing — especially if you’re a long-distance cyclist trying to ride stronger and recover faster. 🦵 Why Magnesium Matters for Cyclists Magnesium plays a central role in how your muscles contract, relax, and recover. But here’s the kicker: cycling — especially in hot weather — causes you to lose magnesium through sweat. Over time, this depletion can lead to: Cramping Muscle fatigue Poor recovery Decreased power output In fact, endurance athletes with low magnesium levels often report hitting walls earlier, feeling sluggish, or struggling to finish strong. ⚡ More Than Just Muscle Power Magnesium isn’t just for preventing cramps — it’s involved in over 300 processes in the body: ...

Cycling Through Challenges: How Seniors Overcome Fear and Anxiety on Two Wheels The wind whispers through spokes, the sun paints diamonds on handlebars, and every pedal stroke hums a song of triumph. In this symphony of motion, age is just a number, replaced by the exhilaration of conquering fear and anxiety, one mile at a time. Welcome to the world of cycling, where seniors are defying stereotypes and proving that the open road beckons to all ages. For many older adults, the thought of cycling can trigger a chorus of doubts. "My balance isn't what it used to be, " they whisper. "Isn't that dangerous? What if I fall? " But beneath these anxieties lies a yearning for freedom, for adventure, for the thrill of rediscovering the world from a new perspective. And it's this yearning that pushes them to clip on their helmets and face their fears head-on. Pedaling Past the Doubts: Taking that first wobbly step onto a bike can be daunting. But...