The Old Guy Bicycle Blog

Cycling is a popular form of exercise that has many health benefits. They include improved cardiovascular health, increased endurance, and reduced stress levels. However, many people are concerned about the potential effects of cycling on their libido. In this article, we will explore recent studies on the effects of cycling on the libido and what they reveal. No Effects Studies from 2018 to 2021 have investigated the effects of cycling on sexual function in both men and women. A study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine in 2018 found that cycling had no negative effects on sexual function in middle-aged men. The study followed 128 men aged 50 to 71 who cycled for at least three hours per week. The researchers found that cycling was associated with better erectile function and sexual satisfaction. Increased Sensation Similarly, a study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine in 2020 found that cycling was associated with increased genital sensation and sexu...

Riding a multi-day bicycle tour can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it can also raise a lot of questions for those who are doing it for the first time. Whether you're riding solo or with a group, here are some answers to commonly asked questions about multi-day tours on a bicycle: How do I pack for a multi-day bicycle tour? Packing for a multi-day tour requires a bit of planning and strategy. You'll want to pack lightweight, durable, and versatile clothing that can be layered for changing weather conditions. Bring along essential tools, bike repair supplies, and extra tubes in case of flat tires. Don't forget to pack toiletries, sunscreen, and insect repellent. I make a list days before the tour and I have a place to lay everything out and check it off the list. I am not going to give you my list because everyone has different needs but I will tell you this, the weight you are going to be carrying on your bike will be more than you probably are used to....

As a cyclist, I know that preparation is key when it comes to multi-day tours. While physical training is essential, there's another tool that I rely on heavily: visualization. By visualizing success and focusing on the end goal, I have found that I can stay motivated and on track, even when faced with challenges. Read on to see how visualization in cycling can give you power. Research has shown that visualization, also known as mental imagery or mental rehearsal, can be a potent tool for achieving goals. Studies have demonstrated that visualizing oneself successfully performing a task can improve actual performance. For example, a study conducted by the University of Chicago and published at philcicio.com found that participants who visualized themselves successfully completing a task performed better than those who did not use visualization. The study involved a group of individuals who were learning to shoot free throws in basketball. Half of the participants visualized th...

When it comes to long-distance touring, having the right gear can make all the difference. One piece of equipment that many cyclists swear by is the Sensational BOB trailer. These trailers attach to the back of your bike and allow you to carry a significant amount of gear. This makes them ideal for long-distance rides. I love my BOB trailer. I can attest to its dependability and usefulness on thousands of miles of tours. The picture with this post is my BOB trailer. I have used it for rides across New Mexico twice and across Texas West to East and North to South. I have also rode it from Lubbock, Texas to Pensacola, Florida, and many other shorter rides. It has been a dependable workhorse that has never given me an ounce of problems. Let's check out some of the things that make it a great choice. Simplicity One of the great things about the BOB trailer is its simplicity. The trailer attaches to the rear wheel of your bike and can be loaded up with gear. It doesn't matter what ...

According to a study by the European Cyclists' Federation, if just 10% of urban trips were made by bike instead of car, carbon dioxide emissions would be reduced by 7%. This is a significant reduction that cities can achieve by promoting cycling as a viable mode of transportation. So, how can cities promote cycling? Here are some strategies that have been successful in promoting cycling in cities around the world: Build bike infrastructure: Building bike infrastructure is crucial in promoting cycling as a safe and practical mode of transportation. Research has shown that people are more likely to cycle in cities that have dedicated bike lanes and separated bike paths (Buehler, Pucher, & Dill, 2016). These infrastructure improvements make it easier and safer for people to cycle, reducing the risk of accidents and injuries. Bike lanes are marked areas on roads that are reserved for bicycles, often separated from motor vehicle traffic by a painted stripe or physical barrier. Prov...

Let me say before getting into this post about bicycling and reduced cancer risk that I truly hate cancer. My first wife fought breast cancer from the age of 32 until she died at the age of 40 back in 1997. My current wife is a breast cancer survivor since 2016.  Cycling has long been known as an effective means of transportation and exercise. It has numerous benefits such as increasing cardiovascular health, improving mental health, and enhancing overall well-being. However, did you know that bicycling can also reduce cancer risks? Several studies have shown a correlation between regular cycling and a reduced risk of certain types of cancer. For example, a study published in the British Journal of Cancer found that cycling can lower the risk of developing breast cancer. The study followed over 4000 women for an average of 8.5 years and found that those who cycled for at least an hour a day had a 34% lower risk of developing breast cancer compared to those who didn't cycle. Another...

I have always had trouble with patience. When I want something, I want it as fast as possible. It took me years to realize that weight loss as fast as possible is not a good thing. Patience when trying to lose weight is the best approach.  This post will explain why I am right about it and how you can lose weight in a patient way. Patience is key when it comes to getting in shape and losing weight through cycling. The process of losing weight and getting fit takes time and dedication, and there are no quick fixes. The journey to a healthy body requires a long-term approach, sustainable lifestyle changes, and patience. Cycling is an excellent way to get in shape and lose weight, but it's important to approach it in the right way. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your cycling journey: Start Slowly When it comes to cycling, it's important to start slowly and gradually increase intensity and duration. Rushing to push oneself to limits can lead to injury or burnout...

Cycling is a great way to get exercise, explore new places, and enjoy the outdoors. Whether you're a casual cyclist or a serious athlete, having the right bicycle clothing essentials for comfort, safety, and performance. In this post, we'll cover the bicycle clothing essentials and what you should look for when choosing your cycling apparel. Cycling Shorts Cycling shorts are one of the top bicycle clothing essentials for any serious cyclist. They provide comfort and support during long rides by reducing friction and preventing chafing. Cycling shorts are engineered to fit snugly and move with your body. They are made from stretchy, breathable materials and provide excellent mobility and comfort. One of the most important features of cycling shorts is the chamois, or padding, that lines the seat area. The chamois cushions your sit bones and reduce pressure on sensitive areas. It helps to prevent saddle soreness and discomfort. Look for shorts with a chamois specifi...

When it comes to buying a quality bicycle, the price tag can often deter many people from making the investment. However, it's important to consider the long-term benefits and potential cost savings that come with regular cycling. As someone who has struggled with obesity and high blood pressure, cycling has been a lifesaver for me. Not only has it improved my physical health, but it has also saved me from countless medical bills and hospital visits. The initial cost of my $2,000 bike may have seemed steep, but when you consider the potential savings in healthcare costs, it's a drop in the bucket. According to a study by the Commonwealth Fund, the average American spent around $1,200 on out-of-pocket healthcare expenses in 2018. That is just one year. Five years becomes $6,000. This doesn't even factor in the costs of missed work, transportation to and from appointments, and other associated expenses. By contrast, investing in a quality bike and making it a regular part of ...

Florida is a state that is known for its beautiful beaches and warm weather, but it is also a great place for cycling enthusiasts. With miles of bicycle trails that wind through scenic landscapes and coastal areas, Florida offers something for every type of rider. In this blog post, we will explore the best bicycle trail in Florida, the Pinellas Trail. The Pinellas Trail is a 47-mile paved bicycle trail that runs from Tarpon Springs to St. Petersburg, Florida. The trail winds through several municipalities and parks, and offers riders stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico and scenic wetlands. The Pinellas Trail is a favorite among locals and tourists alike, and is considered one of the best bicycle trails in the country. The Pinellas Trail was originally a railroad line that was built in the early 1900s, but was abandoned in the 1970s. In the 1990s, the trail was converted into a bicycle trail, and has since become a popular destination for cyclists of all skill levels. The trail is wid...

Recently, I experienced a shift in my mindset that has me both excited and curious. As a cyclist, I have always relied on setting goals to motivate myself to work harder and push myself further. In the past, I've successfully completed challenging tours from Lubbock, Texas to Pensacola, Florida, and from the border of Oklahoma down to South Padre Island, Texas. However, in 2021, I began experiencing unexplained health issues that have made it difficult for me to train for my next goal - a challenging 4 day tour through the high mountains of northern New Mexico . Despite my efforts, my health issues persist, and I've come to accept that I may not be able to complete this tour. I have always been trying to find joy in the journey. Surprisingly, this realization has brought me a newfound sense of finding joy in the journey of cycling. Without the pressure of a specific goal, I've been able to simply ride for the pleasure of it. I've found that the stress I put on myself to...

As someone who has previously written about e-bikes, I understand the concerns of traditional cyclists who believe riding an e-bike is not "real" cycling. However, I believe e-bikes open the world of cycling to people who otherwise could not ride. One common question is about battery costs, fueled by reports of expensive electric car batteries. In this post, I will discuss the true cost of owning an e-bike when you factor in the cost of replacing the battery. Electric bicycles, or e-bikes, have become increasingly popular in recent years as a more efficient and eco-friendly alternative to traditional bicycles or cars. However, one question that many potential e-bike buyers have is the cost of replacement batteries. After all, batteries are the heart of any e-bike, and their lifespan can greatly impact the overall cost of ownership. First, it's important to understand that the lifespan of an e-bike battery can vary greatly depending on a number of factors, including the qu...

Hello, my name is Bruce Bussell(AKA - The Old Guy Bicycle Blog) and I am the proud father of Nick, a young man who has Down syndrome and is on the autism spectrum. Nick's unique journey in life inspired me to create a nonprofit organization called Nick's Differently Awesome Outreach. That is Nick standing by our truck in 2022. As a serious cyclist for 50 years, I have always had a passion for adventure and pushing the limits. However, my passion for helping individuals with developmental disabilities has been the driving force behind my nonprofit work for the past six years. Nick's Differently Awesome Outreach is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that is dedicated to providing safe and meaningful jobs for individuals who have developmental disabilities and face challenges in finding or maintaining employment. Our organization takes pride in offering a unique work experience that allows our employees to gain skills, independence, and confidence, while being valued members o...

As an avid bicycle tourer, I have tried and tested various frame materials over the years, but I have always had a special affinity for steel frames. One of my favorite bicycles of all time was the Specialized AWOL, which had a steel frame. After many years of training and touring, unfortunately, the chainstay broke. Thankfully, Specialized replaced it with the Diverge, which is not a steel frame but is still a great bike. However, when it comes time for me to purchase my next bike for a long tour, I am definitely going to choose a steel frame once again. And my top pick is the Surly Disc Trucker. The Surly Disc Trucker is a high-quality touring bike that is built to last. The steel frame is strong and durable, which is essential for touring, and it provides a smooth ride even on bumpy roads. The bike also comes with a variety of features that make it perfect for long-distance rides, including disc brakes for reliable stopping power, a comfortable saddle, and a sturdy rear rack for car...

  When it comes to cycling, I prefer to ride alone. Don't get me wrong, I love the social aspect of group rides and the camaraderie that comes with it. However, there's something about the freedom of hitting the road at my own pace and stopping whenever I feel like it that's truly liberating. I'm in complete control of the ride, and that's just the way I like it. Riding solo allows me to fully immerse myself in the experience of cycling. I can focus on the sound of the tires on the pavement, the wind in my face, and the beautiful scenery around me. I can go at my own pace without feeling the pressure to keep up with the group or slow down for others. One of my fondest memories is from a few summers ago in New Mexico. I found myself 45 miles away from the nearest town with nothing but my trusty bike for company. It was just me and the open road, and I loved every moment of it. The feeling of complete solitude was refreshing and invigorating. I could stop whenever I w...