The Old Guy Bicycle Blog

🌎 Real Thoughts from the Road: After decades of long-distance cycling, I’ve come to believe bicycles can genuinely change the world. Here’s why — and how we can help make it happen. How Bicycles Can Change the World Sometimes when I’m out riding, I feel like I’m pedaling on top of the world — literally and figuratively. There’s something about cycling that feels so right, so sustainable, and so hopeful. After decades in the saddle , I still wonder: Why don’t more people ride bikes? Bicycles are fun, healthy, efficient, and environmentally friendly — yet they remain underused in a car-centric world. But I truly believe that bicycles can help save the world — if we’re willing to invest in them, advocate for them, and normalize them as more than just recreation. Here’s how bikes can make the world a better place — and how you can be part of that change. 🚴‍♂️ The Benefits of Cycling Go Far Beyond Fitness Here are just a few of the ways bicycles can change the ...

Last updated: August 30, 2025 Quick Answer: Most cycling headaches come from dehydration, muscle tension, and neck strain . The fastest fixes are better on-bike hydration (with electrolytes for longer rides), a dialed-in bike fit, posture and stretching, and pacing with short breaks. Cycling Headaches: Causes, Prevention, and Relief Tips I started getting headaches both during and after some of my longer rides. It concerned me enough to do some research—and what I found surprised me. I wasn’t drinking enough water. Once I started hydrating better during rides, the headaches stopped completely. Not everyone’s solution will be that simple, but many cyclists do experience headaches. If you love riding, it's frustrating when your favorite activity leaves you feeling miserable. Here's what I've learned about the most common causes—and how to fix them. 🚴‍♂️ Common Causes of Headaches After Cycling Dehydration. Cycling makes you sweat—...

Bicycles are a great way to get around, and they're also good for the environment. But how much of a bicycle is actually made from recycled materials? The answer depends on the bike. Some bikes are made from 100% recycled materials, while others use a mix of virgin and recycled materials. And still others use very little recycled material at all. One of the most recycled materials used in bicycles is aluminum. Aluminum frames and components are very lightweight and durable, and they can be recycled over and over again. In fact, about 70% of all aluminum ever produced is still in use today. Another common recycled material used in bicycles is steel. Steel is also very strong and durable, and it can be recycled many times. However, steel is heavier than aluminum, so it's not as commonly used in high-performance bicycles. In addition to aluminum and steel, other recycled materials that can be used in bicycles include plastic, rubber, and even carbon fiber. Plastic is used in a var...

Last Updated: April 19, 2026 Quick Take: Foot pain while cycling usually comes from pressure, poor shoe fit, cleat position, or long-ride overuse. In many cases, the fix is better shoes, better setup, and smarter breaks—not quitting riding. Cycling Foot Pain: Why It Happens and How I Fix It After 155,000+ Miles If your feet hurt while cycling, you are not alone. Burning feet. Numb toes. Aching arches. Hot spots on the ball of the foot. I’ve dealt with all of it at different times over decades of riding. As a 70-year-old cyclist who still rides regularly, I can tell you this: foot pain usually has a cause—and usually has a fix. Many riders assume it means they’re getting old or need to ride less. Often, it simply means something in the setup is wrong. Why Feet Hurt While Cycling Shoes too tight: Feet swell during rides. Tight shoes become painful later in the ride. Cleats too far forward: This can overload the ball of your foot and create burning sensa...

How often should I clean my bicycle, even if I'm not the best at it? I'm not the best at keeping my bicycle as clean as I should, but I do try to keep my chain clean and lubed. I know that this is important for extending the lifespan of my components and improving shifting performance, so I make an effort to do it at least once a week. Of course, if I could clean my bike more often, I would. But I'm a busy person, and it's not always easy to find the time. So, I've learned to be realistic about how often I can clean my bike, and I focus on the most important things, like the chain and drivetrain. If you're like me and you're not the best at keeping your bike clean, here's a tip: don't worry about cleaning the whole bike every time. Just focus on the most important parts, like the chain and drivetrain. Even a few minutes of cleaning can make a big difference in the lifespan and performance of your components. Here are some additional t...

Acclimating to Cold Weather Cycling: Why Fall Miles Matter Last updated: October 26, 2025 Quick Take: If you skip those first crisp fall rides, winter will feel brutal. Ride through the cool-down now so your body and mind adapt before real cold hits. Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases—at no extra cost to you. Cold-Weather Starter Kit (Real-World Picks) Thermal Gloves (windproof, grippy) — keeps fingers working without bulk. Browse gloves on Amazon Merino Base Layer (long sleeve) — wicks sweat, stays warm even damp. Men’s options  |  Women’s options Wind/Rain Shell (packable) — vents fast so sweat doesn’t freeze later. Men’s jackets  |  Women’s jackets Shoe Covers / Toe Caps — feet warm = ride lasts longer. See options ...