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Still Rolling Strong at 68: Why I Keep Cycling and You Should Too

 

Bruce Bussell of The Old Guy Bicycle Blog on a Long Distance Tour

At 68, I’m not as fast as I was 40 years ago—but the passion I have for cycling hasn’t faded one bit. In fact, in many ways, it’s stronger now than ever.

Some folks ask me why I still ride, and the answer is simple: cycling keeps me alive—physically, mentally, and emotionally. It’s a part of who I am, and I don’t see that changing anytime soon.

Cycling Keeps Me Young at Heart

Let’s be honest—our bodies change as we age. But that doesn’t mean we have to stop moving. Cycling is a low-impact activity that’s gentle on the joints and great for maintaining cardiovascular health. It helps me stay active, flexible, and feeling young at heart.

Yes, I stretch a little longer these days. I take a bit more care with traffic, heat, and hydration. And I listen more closely to what my body is trying to tell me. But with a little caution and a lot of enthusiasm, the ride is still worth it.

Cycling Is Social—Even When I Ride Alone

One of the unexpected gifts of cycling is how social it can be—even on a solo tour. I can’t count the number of people I’ve met at gas stations, small-town cafés, and rest stops. A quick refill of a water bottle often turns into a 10-minute conversation.

I’ll never forget riding through a small Louisiana town, trying to find the start of a 30-mile bike trail. I stopped near a little interior design shop, and a woman came running out, excited to talk. She’d met many cyclists before—turns out, that spot is a common stop for folks passing through.

We couldn’t have come from more different backgrounds, but we clicked immediately. We were the same age, and she said she rarely had the chance to chat with a senior cyclist. We talked for 30 minutes. I never got her name, and I’ll never see her again, but that moment stuck with me.

That’s the beauty of the road. Even when you ride alone, you’re never really alone.

The Mental Benefits Are Real

There’s something magical about pedaling through open space, feeling the wind on your face, and soaking in the sunshine. Cycling clears the cobwebs in my mind. It helps me manage stress, stay focused, and feel optimistic.

No pills. No screens. Just the road, the rhythm, and the peace it brings.

Age Is Not a Barrier

If you love cycling, don’t let your age stop you. Sure, be smart. Warm up. Know your limits. Pay attention to your body. But don’t give up on what brings you joy.

Whether you’re 28 or 78, if the bike is calling, answer it.

So grab your helmet. Pump up your tires. Let’s keep riding—because the road doesn’t care how old you are. It just wants you to keep moving.


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Location: Lubbock, TX, USA

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