The Old Guy Bicycle Blog

Updated August 3, 2025 Thinking about going tubeless for your touring bike? Here’s what I’ve learned after thousands of miles — the good, the bad, and the gear I trust to make it work. By Bruce | The Old Guy Bicycle Blog As an avid cyclist who’s been touring for many years, I’ve experimented with just about every piece of gear you can imagine.  These are the bib shorts I trust now —comfortable enough for 60+ mile days and built to last.  But few changes have had a bigger impact on my riding experience than switching to tubeless tires. 🛞 Fewer Flats, More Fun Since switching to tubeless tires, the number of flats I’ve had has dropped dramatically. I used to carry multiple spare tubes and a patch kit everywhere I went—now I rarely worry about punctures at all. The sealant inside tubeless tires works quickly to plug small holes as they happen, which has saved me from countless roadside repairs and kept my rides rolling. I use Stan’s NoTubes Tire Sealant and have for ye...

Last updated: February 2026 Quick Take: If you’re riding after 60, modern bike tech isn’t “fancy”—it’s how you stay safer, more comfortable, and more confident. Disc brakes, tubeless tires, radar, and e-bikes have changed what’s possible for older riders. Bikes today are not the bikes I grew up riding. And honestly? I’m grateful for that. I’m in my 70s now, and I’ve felt firsthand how modern upgrades can keep you riding longer: better stopping power , fewer flats , less joint pain , and more confidence when traffic or hills get serious. If you’re getting started (or getting back into cycling), my cornerstone guide is here: Cycling for Seniors: Smart Tips for Riders Over 60 . The 5 Upgrades That Actually Matter After 60 If you’re coming from an older bike, these are the upgrades that actually change your day-to-day riding: Hydraulic disc brakes — safer stopping in rain, grit, and long descents. Tubeless tires — fewer flats and a smoother...