The Old Guy Bicycle Blog

As I embarked on my bicycle tour across the eastern United States, I had no idea what kind of adventures awaited me. I was excited to explore new landscapes, meet interesting people, and challenge myself both physically and mentally. Little did I know that my journey would lead me to a fascinating encounter that would test my commitment to my marriage. One day, as I was biking in search of a bike path that would lead me to 30 miles of traffic-free riding, I found myself in front of a vintage art store. It was there that I met a woman who would leave a lasting impression on me. As I was getting ready to take off, she approached me and asked if I was biking cross-country. We struck up a conversation, and I soon learned that she was from Cajun country with a unique accent. She found my Texas accent intriguing, and we talked for about 45 minutes. I couldn't help but be fascinated by her warmth and charm, and she seemed to enjoy my company as well. As I was preparing to leave and say go...

San Jose Bike Party is a monthly event that has been taking place in San Jose, California since 2007. The event attracts hundreds of cyclists of all ages and backgrounds, who come together to ride through the streets of San Jose, socialize, and have fun. In this post, we'll explore what makes San Jose Bike Party so special and why you should consider attending this unique cycling event. The first thing that makes San Jose Bike Party so special is the sense of community and inclusivity that it fosters. The event is open to everyone, regardless of their cycling ability or experience. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or a beginner, you'll find a welcoming and supportive environment at San Jose Bike Party. The event is also family-friendly, with many participants bringing their kids along for the ride. Another unique aspect of San Jose Bike Party is the emphasis on having fun and socializing with fellow cyclists. The event is not a race, but rather a leisurely ride through the...

Fietsvierdaagse, which translates to "four-day cycling event," is a popular cycling event in the Netherlands that draws thousands of participants every year. The event features four days of cycling through scenic routes in the country, with each day covering a different distance and taking participants through different towns and landscapes. The event has become a beloved tradition in the Netherlands, and it's not hard to see why. In this post, we'll explore what makes Fietsvierdaagse so special and how the USA could benefit from a similar event. Fietsvierdaagse is a unique event that brings together people of all ages and backgrounds to celebrate their love of cycling. The event is not a race, but rather a leisurely ride through the countryside, with participants stopping to enjoy the scenery, take breaks, and socialize with fellow cyclists. The event is open to anyone who can ride a bike, and there are routes available for all skill levels and ages. The atmosphere i...

As someone who has ridden a bicycle for over 50 years, I've learned the importance of keeping your bike well-maintained. However, I'll be the first to admit that I'm not the most mechanically inclined person. That's why I rely on my local bike shop for most of my repairs. But there are some basic maintenance tasks that I've learned to do myself over the years, and I'm here to share them with you. Cleaning the bike: A clean bike not only looks better, but it also performs better. Use a bucket of warm, soapy water and a soft sponge or cloth to gently clean your bike. Pay special attention to the chain, cassette, and derailleur. Use a separate brush to clean the chain and cassette, and then wipe them down with a clean cloth. Once you've finished cleaning, make sure to dry your bike thoroughly to prevent rust Cleaning and lubing the chain: The chain is one of the most important components of your bike, so it's important to keep it clean and well-lubricated....

Cycling is not only a great way to stay active and explore your surroundings, but it can also be a powerful tool for improving your mental and emotional well-being. By practicing mindfulness while cycling, you can enhance your experience, reduce stress and anxiety, and boost your overall sense of well-being. If you had told me way back when I started cycling that I would be talking about mindfulness I would laugh at you but here I am all those years later doing it. Cycling does change as you age and I find practicing mindfulness pretty cool. This may sound hokey to some of you but I find it serves me well. Understand that I am no longer a competitive cyclist. I do not enter races trying to place high in the standings. If I enter a race nowadays it is just to enjoy the fact that I can ride, meet some cool people, and see if I can finish it. Most of my riding today involves getting ready for multi-day adventures. I don't go fast. It is about endurance but it is also about stopping an...